In Chicago, how do transfers on the "El" and buses work?

Question

I read that the normal fare for the "El" and buses is $2, with transfers being 25 cents. However, when I use the online route calculator at http://tripsweb.rtachicago.com it tells me that a trip involving a bus and the "El" from an outer area of Chicago to downtown areas costs $4-$6, depending on where exactly my destination is.

So, what am I missing here? Is the online calculator not taking into account transfers only being 25 cents, or do you have to pay the full fare for the "El" and the bus separately if you use both of them on the same trip?

Thanks!!

Answer 1

I think the transfer rate still applies unless you are paying with cash. Bus drivers do not issue transfers anymore, so you have to by a transit card, and just put enough value on it to make your trip(s). When you use the card the first time it will deduct $1.75 and mark the time. You'll then have 2 transfers within the next 2 hours for $.25. If you pay cash, it will be $2 every time you walk onto a bus or through a turnstile at the El stop. The trip planner is probably just calculating the cash price.
Note, El to El transfers are always free.

Answer 2

transfers are gone. just ask our wonderful mayor daley. its 2 bucks each and every route now. you can buy a monthly pass if you will use it too.

Answer 3

there is no more transfers anymore