On this page (7)
Very likely, yes. The Port Authority warns of a "widespread text scam claiming to collect unpaid E-ZPass tolls under the name 'NY Toll Services'." It says that if you received this text, "it is likely a scam." Don't click the link, and don't copy it into a browser. Check what you really owe only at EZPassNY.com, TollsByMailNY.com or the Tolls NY app (Port Authority).
Why drivers are easy targets
TLC drivers cross bridges for work, so a text that says "unpaid toll, pay now to avoid a fee" sounds believable. Real unpaid tolls do bring late fees and, in the end, registration suspension. That fear is what the scam uses.
The Port Authority adds that, because of the scam, its "call center and website are experiencing higher-than-usual volumes." So you may wait longer when you check. Waiting is still safer than paying a stranger.
How real toll bills reach you
- Tolls by Mail bills are mailed to the vehicle's registered owner, at the address on DMV records (Thruway).
- The Thruway lets you sign up for a text alert when tolls are ready to pay. Even then, don't pay through a link. Open the official site or app and look up the bill yourself.
- The Port Authority says the Tolls NY app is "the only authorized mobile app for managing your E-ZPass New York and/or Tolls by Mail account." It strongly cautions against using any other app to pay New York tolls.
- E-ZPass and Tolls by Mail customer service: 800-333-8655 (MTA).
If you lease your TLC car, toll bills go to the owner, not to you. A text to your phone about "your" unpaid toll on a car you don't own is another red flag.
Check safely: a 60-second routine
What about collection calls?
Some contacts about tolls are real. For unpaid Port Authority violations, the Port Authority names three collection agencies: Southwest Credit (1-877-391-0160), AllianceOne or its affiliate PMT Solutions (1-866-505-2158), and Transworld Systems Inc. (1-866-246-0157). It says "significant unpaid violations" may be pursued by the Merani Law Firm (1-929-458-6275). Its advice: "If a collection call seems suspicious, you can verify by contacting the agency directly" using the number on the agency's official website or these numbers (Port Authority). Hang up and call back. Don't use a number the caller gives you.
Related
Frequently asked questions
Is the NY Toll Services text real?
The Port Authority calls it a 'widespread text scam claiming to collect unpaid E-ZPass tolls under the name NY Toll Services' and says if you got it, it is likely a scam.
Where can I safely check if I owe tolls?
Only EZPassNY.com, TollsByMailNY.com or the Tolls NY app, which the Port Authority calls the only authorized mobile app for E-ZPass New York and Tolls by Mail. Type the address yourself.
How do real toll bills arrive?
Tolls by Mail bills are mailed to the registered owner at the address on DMV records. The Thruway also offers text alerts you sign up for yourself, so check any message against your account rather than trusting its link.
A collection agency called about Port Authority tolls. Is it real?
The Port Authority does use Southwest Credit, AllianceOne (or PMT Solutions) and Transworld Systems. If a call seems suspicious, it says to call the agency back on its official number: 1-877-391-0160, 1-866-505-2158 or 1-866-246-0157.
Sources
Last reviewed against the official sources on .
- Port Authority: E-ZPass (scam warning, Tolls NY app) panynj.gov
- Port Authority: Bridge and tunnel tolls (collection agencies) panynj.gov
- NYS Thruway: About cashless tolling thruway.ny.gov
- MTA: How to pay tolls mta.info
Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we'll check it against the official source.
TLC Help is not a law firm and is not affiliated with the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission or OATH. Explanations on this site are general information, not legal advice. Legal representation is provided by independent attorneys and OATH-registered representatives in our network.