Your SEPTA rides might cost you more under proposed fare change | What you need to know

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A change could be coming for SEPTA riders that would make trips more expensive.

The transit authority just announced a proposed fare hike as they deal with a budget crisis.

The board will have to listen to public input before making these changes, but the board president says most of them are already ready to vote yes because the SEPTA budget is in need of help.

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The new fares would go into effect on December 1.

SEPTA says the biggest changes would be for riders who utilize SEPTA key cards, credit and debit cards to pay.

If approved, the rate hike would eliminate their .50 cent discount, making the fare the same as the cash price of $2.50 per ride.

Weekly and monthly pass rates are not affected.

"This proposal would generate $14 million per year - should, would enhance safety, security and improve service," said SEPTA CEO Leslie Richards.

It comes as the transit agency is trying to keep up with budget demands and declining revenue.

Right now, SEPTA faces a $240 million annual deficit.

Rates on Regional Rail will also see an increase - anywhere from 25 cents to $1.75 depending on the zone.

Although Regional Rail Zone 1 has been expanded, the Zone 1 Regional Rail would see a fare decrease of $1.25.

You can see a map of the expanded Zone 1 here.

RELATED: SEPTA to reinstate parking fees in phases starting in late September

This proposal would also allow for more freedom with transfers. A quick trip would be the price of a one-way fare.

"The fare proposal eliminates restrictions on direction of travel for free transfers. This offers new flexibility for more round trips on a single fare," Richards said.

In the annual budget, Harrisburg approved a one-time $80 million for public transit in the state - with $47 million going toward SEPTA - but the agency is holding out for more permanent help.

SEPTA also received $6 million from the City of Philadelphia.

"There is a hope to get something done to provide permanent funding for public transportation. Quite frankly, we're agnostic as to how that happens, we need the money." said SEPTA Board President Ken Lawrence.

Parking fees will also reinstated starting on September 23, with an estimated revenue of $4 million dollars annually.