Another two oyster questions

[whole diary]

[froome]

As Oyster^▸ (Smartcard system used by passengers on Transport for London services) cards are being discussed, I'll take this opportunity to ask some other questions about them. I have had a card for many years but only occasionally use them, on the few occasions I visit London, and then only for tube services. Is there a price structure available anywhere to see what we should be paying when using them? On my last visits the fares used which show as the amount still available when I touch out seem to have had little relevance to journey length or to use of zones.

Also earlier this year I went to use the tube at Ealing Broadway, so touched my oyster card when entering, and then found the service I wanted was cancelled and other services delayed, so decided to touch out and seek a cafe. I noted that i was charged £1-50 for this non-journey. Is this correct?

[Adelante_CCT]

https://tfl.gov.uk/fares-and-payments/oyster/using-oyster/touching-in-and-out

The following part may well apply to you...

Between 2 and 30 minutes: the minimum pay as you go fare from that station

You may be eligible for a refund if you have been charged for a same station exit. Speak to a member of staff, go to replacements and refunds or call us on 0343 222 1234 (08:00 to 20:00 daily

[didcotdean]

This page is the single fare finder which gives the fares between any two stations  Tube, DLR^▸ (Docklands Light Railway), London Overground, TfL^» (Transport for London - about) Rail and National Rail services.

[CJB666]

https://tfl.gov.uk/fares-and-payments/oyster/using-oyster/touching-in-and-out

The following part may well apply to you...

Between 2 and 30 minutes: the minimum pay as you go fare from that station

You may be eligible for a refund if you have been charged for a same station exit. Speak to a member of staff, go to replacements and refunds or call us on 0343 222 1234 (08:00 to 20:00 daily

That's just how the chaos at Paddington, with sudden swapping of platforms, cancelled services, and use of platforms with no Oyster^▸ (Smartcard system used by passengers on Transport for London services), cons the public.

So what's cheaper - spending your time trying to get a refund, or holding on for hours on a premium rate phone number? Or simply not bothering - as I guess most passengers do. With your situation its not your fault - but you lose anyway - that's the way Oyster is designed - and is why TfL^» (Transport for London - about) has £14 million in its coffers. Fraud - you bet.

[didcotdean]

An 03 number is not a premium number, it is a regular one. Although calling any number outside of a calling plan these days has a not insignificant call set up fee.