Penalty Fares
What is a penalty fare and how can I pay for it?
If you travel on a train without a ticket, you’ll have to pay the full single fare or full return fare or, if appropriate, a Penalty Fare for your journey.
You are required by law to provide your full name and address to the inspector even if you pay the Penalty Fare in full. They can check these details and will know if the details you give are not correct.
You should pay the Penalty Fare when it's issued. You can pay the inspector directly and you'll be given a receipt.
You can also promptly pay the Penalty Fare at the ticket office at your destination.
If you don't have the full amount, then you will be allowed to make a part payment of at least the single fare for your journey. You then have 21 days to pay the balance by:
- Visiting a Southeastern ticket office
- Sending a cheque or postal order to the payment address on the notice (with the notice included). Please do not send cash through the post
- Paying online
You can appeal against a Penalty Fare online or in writing within 21 days from the date of issue. Written appeals should be sent to Penalty Services Ltd (PSL) at:
PSL
12 Deben Mill Business Centre
Old Maltings Approach
Woodbridge
IP12 1BL
PSL is an independent organisation governed by the Department of Transport. They will consider your appeal based on the facts of the case and inform you if it’s successful or not.
You'll be sent a letter reminding you about the money that you owe us.
If you travel on the railway intending to not pay the fare, then you may be prosecuted under criminal law. The current maximum penalty upon conviction is £1,000 fine and/or 3 months imprisonment.