In the previous post, we have written an article about how to buy an EZ-Link card for various purposes when in Singapore. Each newly-purchased EZ-Link card has SGD 5 as a stored value for use. We can use them to pay for MRT, buses, and other public transportation.
However, this amount is only sufficient for one or two MRT trips. To ensure a smooth travel experience, it's essential to maintain an adequate balance on your EZ-Link card, so top it up as soon as possible.
In this article, I'll cover different ways to top up your EZ-Link card and check its balance.
There are five easy and simple ways to do it. You can check EZ-Link card balance through:
The simplest way is to check it at the MRT station gate. Every time you tap your card at an MRT station gate, the monitor will display your balance. It will also indicate if your balance is low.
In addition to the MRT gates, we can also check the remaining balance on our EZ-Link card each time we use the bus. When we tap our card upon boarding or alighting, the bus's contactless card reader displays our current balance. Similar to the MRT gate, the card reader will alert us if our balance is running low.
An alternative method for checking your balance is by using a General Ticketing Machine (GTM) located at every bus interchange and train station. Simply place your EZ-Link card into the card reader, and the machine will display information about your available balance and the card's lifespan.
Wondering how to check your balance if you don't have access to a GTM? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Even if you're not at an MRT station, you can check your card balance virtually anywhere using various apps, such as EZ-Link, TL SimplyGo, and SingCARD.
For those with NFC-enabled mobile devices, we recommend trying the SingCARD app. You can download and install it from the Play Store using this link. Once installed, simply tap your card on your phone, and your EZ-Link balance will be displayed. Just make sure your device's NFC settings are properly configured!
In addition, SingCARD can also show you the card number, its expiration date, and the history of your travel transactions along with the MRT lines that you used.
For those without NFC-enabled mobile phones, there's an alternative method. You can install the TL SimplyGo app from the Play Store or App Store, register an account using your email and phone number, and you're all set! Follow these steps:
Similar to SingCARD, this app also enables you to view your travel transaction history. Simply click the e-card and select "View Trip Details" and "Monthly Overview" for more information. This feature allows you to easily and conveniently track your travel expenses.
If your EZ-Link card balance runs out, you can try these ways to top up:
As previously mentioned, these ticketing machines can be found at every bus interchange and MRT station. Therefore, you don't need to worry about where to top up your EZ-Link card, particularly if you're a tourist with limited options or access to various payment methods.
You can use cash, NETS, debit, or credit cards to top up your EZ-Link card. For more details on these options, please refer to the explanation provided below:
If you encounter issues with the GTM, visit a TransitLink Ticket Office at any station gate for assistance.
Top up your card at any 7-Eleven or Cheers store, found throughout Singapore. Just tell the staff that you need to reload your EZ-Link card.
The final option for topping up your EZ-Link card is to use an ATM operated by banks in Singapore, such as DBS, OCBC, and HSBC. This method may provide greater flexibility and accessibility if you have debit or credit cards issued by these banks. However, please note that if you use cards from foreign banks, an additional fee will be applied to each transaction.
Lastly, you can check your balance using the EZ-Link app. This app is ideal for those seeking a hassle-free experience. With this application, there's no need to top up through ATMs, 7-Eleven stores, or top-up machines at each station.
The EZ-Link app offers a range of features, including topping up, checking balances, monitoring transactions, and earning reward points. However, please note that this app is exclusively for locals or those with Singaporean mobile numbers.
If you're planning to visit Singapore and purchase a local SIM card, you can take advantage of the EZ-Link app for a fast and efficient experience. The app is available for download on both the Play Store and App Store.
Among the numerous top-up methods available, I found using the ticketing machine to be the most convenient, particularly for my husband and me as tourists. If you intend to use this method as well, feel free to follow the tutorial provided below.
First, locate a top-up machine at the entrance and exit gates of the MRT station. These blue machines are typically lined up near the gates and are present at every station, so there's no need to worry if your card balance runs low unexpectedly.
If you wish to top up your balance using cash, look for a machine marked "Cash Accepted." However, if you prefer to top up with Visa, Mastercard, JCB, or NETS cards, feel free to use any available machine.
Next, simply place your card into the card reader located at the bottom of the screen. Wait a moment for your balance information and an array of payment options to appear. On this page, you can also review the transaction history of your EZ-Link card.
Following that, select your preferred payment method. You can reload your EZ-Link balance using cash, a NETS card, debit card, or credit card. Accepted debit and credit cards include VISA, Mastercard, and JCB.
You can insert banknotes in denominations of $2, $5, $10, or even $50. All money inserted will be converted into card balance, so there are no refunds or change provided once the money is inserted. As my husband and I only had cash, we opted for the Cash payment method.
Insert the desired amount of money into the machine. My husband and I typically use SGD 2 or 5 denominations. In Singapore, it is acceptable to insert folded bills, but ensure they are not excessively creased or damaged.
Once the money is inserted, the machine screen will display the amount you have added. Press the "Confirm" button to proceed. The machine will then quickly process the additional balance. During this process, do not remove the card from the reader. Wait patiently for the process to finish.
Once the process is complete and your transaction is successful, you will see the amount you have added and your current balance displayed. If you require a receipt, simply click "Receipt," and the machine will print one for you. Now you're all set to go!
For those curious about the maximum value an EZ-Link card can hold, it can store up to SGD 500. If you plan to use it for shopping, you can top up until you reach the maximum limit.
These are some easy guides and steps to help you understand how the EZ-Link card operates in Singapore. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please feel free to leave a comment below!
I want to check the ez link
Hi, there. Is there any specific question about EZ-Link? Hope we can help 🙂