There are many reasons to choose one E-ZPass over another. But if you’re a New Yorker or New Jersey commuter, the decision is already made for you – you have to use the NJ E-ZPass. But is it really that easy?
NJ E-ZPass Account Holders must pay Tolls By Mail (Cash Rate) in New York
If you’re a New Jersey resident or E-ZPass account holder, you’ll have to pay the cash rate for tolls when driving in New York. Though it may be a hassle to keep track of, this is the only way to ensure you’re not overcharged for your tolls.
Cross-State Commuters Pay Full Cash Rate
For those who commute between New York and New Jersey, the E-ZPass system is a blessing. An E-ZPass allows drivers to zip through toll booths without fumbling for cash. But what happens when you move to a new state?
If you’re a commuter who recently moved from New York to New Jersey (or vice versa), you may be in for a rude awakening when it comes to your E-ZPass. Even though both states are part of the E-ZPass system, they don’t have reciprocal agreements when it comes to pricing. That means that if you want to use your E-ZPass in both states, you’ll have to pay the full cash rate for any tolls you incur in the state you don’t live in.
For example, let’s say you live in New Jersey and work in New York City. You’ve been using your E-ZPass without issue for months, but now that you’ve moved to NJ, you’ll have to pay the full cash rate whenever you use any NYC bridges or tunnels. The same goes for any New Yorkers who have moved to New Jersey – they’ll have to start paying the total cash rate.
What is the difference between a New York and New Jersey E-ZPass Account?
If you’re a commuter who frequently travels between New York and New Jersey, you may be wondering if there’s any difference between having a New York E-ZPass account versus a New Jersey E-ZPass account. The answer is yes; there are some key differences that you should be aware of before deciding which account is right for you.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the main differences between New York and New Jersey E-ZPass accounts:
-New York E-ZPass accounts can be used on all New York State Thruway Authority-operated highways, bridges, and tunnels. This includes the Tappan Zee Bridge, Triborough Bridge, Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, and Hugh L. Carey Tunnel (formerly known as the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel).
-New Jersey E-Pass accounts can be used on all New Jersey Turnpike Authority-operated highways, bridges, and tunnels. This includes the Garden State Parkway, Atlantic City Expressway, and the Newark Bay Extension of the Turnpike.
-New York E-ZPass accounts come with a minimum balance of $10, while New Jersey E-ZPass accounts come with a minimum balance of $25.
-If you have a New York E-ZPass account and you travel on a New Jersey Turnpike Authority-operated highway, you will be charged the higher New Jersey cash toll rate. Similarly, if you have a New Jersey E-ZPass account and you travel on a New York State Thruway Authority-operated highway, you will be charged the higher New York cash toll rate.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to dispute unfair toll fines, contact TORTOLL for any E-ZPass or Tolls by Mail fines, toll violations, or disputes.