Over £53m On Unused Oyster Cards


TfL encourage residents to claim a refund on balances

Following reports that Londoners and visitors to the capital have more than £53m tied up in unused Oyster cards.

TfL has previously promised to make the refunds process “easier”.

As part of its changes, Oyster holders will soon be able to get a refund at their local Tube station regardless of the payment method used. Currently only cash top-ups can be refunded at stations.

A spokesman for TfL said: "We encourage anyone who does not intend to use an old Oyster card to return it for a refund. The steps involved in doing so are easy."

People should contact TfL on 0343 222 1234 and they will transfer the deposit and any outstanding balance into a bank account on return of the card.

Refunds can also be given at any London Underground ticket office if cash has been used to top up the Oyster card.

The spokesman continued: " Later this year, we will also be able to process all refunds regardless of the payment method used, at ticket offices."

The best way to keep track of your Oyster balance is by setting up an Oyster Online account at www.tfl.gov.uk/oyster.


May 30, 2013