We all know that cars can be expensive. But what if you didn’t have to worry about the cost of a car, and could get one for free? It may sound too good to be true, but there are actually several ways to get your hands on a free car. So whether you’re looking for a new ride or just need a little extra help getting around, keep reading to learn more about how to get a free car.
Can You Really Get a Free Car?
Every day, people are bombarded with ads promising free stuff. From free shipping to BOGO deals, it seems like everything comes with a catch these days. So, when you see an ad for a free car, it’s natural to be skeptical.
However, there are actually a few legitimate ways to get a car for free. For instance, some companies will give you a free car if you agree to wrap it in advertising.
Similarly, charities may provide free cars to low-income families or individuals with disabilities. Of course, you’ll still have to pay for gas and maintenance, but if you’re willing to sacrifice a little bit of privacy, it is possible to get a car for free.
Related: Why Buying a New Car Is a Bad Investment
How Do I Qualify for a Free Car?
Most of us rely on our cars to get us from point A to point B. But what if you can’t afford a car? Or what if your car is old and unreliable? For many people, the answer is to qualify for a free car program.
There are a number of organizations that provide free cars to low-income families and individuals. To qualify for a free car program, you typically need to have a certain income level or be enrolled in a government assistance program.
You may also need to have a valid driver’s license. If you meet the qualifications, you can apply for the opportunity to choose from a selection of new or gently-used cars. So if you’re in need of a reliable form of transportation, don’t despair –– there are ways to get a free car.
Charity Organizations That Provide Free Cars for Low-income Families
800-Charity Cars
800-Charity Cars is a national nonprofit organization that provides free donated cars to low-income individuals and families in need. The charity has an extensive application process and only provides cars to those who can demonstrate a genuine financial need.
However, the process is worth it for those who are approved. If you are in need of a car but cannot afford to purchase one, 800-Charity Cars is definitely worth considering.
Cars4christmas
Cars4Christmas is a national charitable organization that provides free cars to low-income families, persons with disabilities, and veterans.
It recognizes that a significant number of people who require basic transportation reside in rural and suburban areas. It uses Christmas to increase public awareness of its car donations charitable cause.
Cars4Christmas encourages all applicants to submit a narrative describing why they need a free automobile and how it will improve their lives.
A selection committee notifies selected applicants and invites them for a one-on-one interview to discuss their application for free charity cars. Every year, about 15,000 people apply for 300 charity automobiles.
Cars4heroes
Cars4Heroes is a car donation program that provides free cars to military personnel, veterans, and their families. For millions of Americans, public transportation is the key to obtaining employment and receiving any medical care they need.
Most of these people live in large metropolitan areas, but a significant number reside in rural areas. This is where Cars for Heroes comes in.
The main difference between Cars4Heroes and other car donation programs is that cars that get donated are given back to qualified personnel, veterans, and military families. If you are a military personnel or veteran, or the spouse or child of one, you may be eligible to receive a free car from Cars for Heroes.
To apply, simply fill out an online application form. You will need to provide proof of your military service, such as a DD-214 form.
Good News Garage
Good News Garage is a car donation program that provides free donated cars to low-income families and individuals in need. The program is sponsored by a number of companies, including Auto Clinic, Auto Care Plus, Bob & Sons, other car dealerships, and garages. They offer two programs:
- Wheels to Work program – Through state agencies, they provide refurbished automobiles to qualified residents of Massachusetts and Vermont.
- Ready To Go – On-demand shuttles are available to take people to job interviews, work, or medical appointments.
Similar to Cars4Heroes, their mission is to repair donated vehicles and give them back to disadvantaged families rather than selling them. Good News Garage operates in Massachusetts and Vermont.
If you are a resident of either state, you can apply for a free car by filling out an online application form. Each state has its own standards for who qualifies for aid, and clients are referred to GNG.
Onlinecardonation.com
OnlineCarDonation.com is a website that connects people in need of a car with donors who are willing to give away their old car. The process is simple: fill out an application form explaining your need for a car, and if you qualify, you will be contacted within 30 days.
They will require you to complete the application form and write an essay on why you need the car and why you qualify for the free vehicle.
Vehicles for Change
In the Maryland-Virginia-Washington DC region, Vehicles for Change has established long-term automobile awards and job training programs for eligible families with limited incomes.
They have awarded more than 7,000 cars to low-income families since their founding in 1999 and helped more than 24,000 disadvantaged families’ life get back on track.
To be eligible for a free vehicle from Vehicles for Change, you must fulfill the following minimal standards:
- A resident of Maryland and Northern Virginia
- Have a current driver’s license
- Provide proof of insurance
- Be employed (or have proof of employment and working at least 30 hours a week)
- No records of DWIs or DUIs
- No record of drug-related offenses
Please keep in mind that each sponsoring organization may have its own set of criteria for eligibility for free car programs. For more information on how to apply for a free car from Vehicles for Change, you can visit their website or give them a call.
Find a Job That Provides a Free Car
One option is to find a job that provides a free car. Many companies, especially those in the transportation industry, offer free used cars for employees to use. Regardless of new or used cars, these automobiles are generally well-maintained and reliable transportation for employees to get to and from work.
This can be a great perk, especially if you don’t have to pay for gas or maintenance. Some offer free cars for low-income individuals and those with less-than-perfect credit.
Request a Dealer Donation
Another way to get a free car is to request a donation from a local dealer. Many dealerships are happy to donate cars to individuals or families in need, especially if it means getting a tax deduction and during the holiday season when people feel more charitable.
Try writing a letter or email to the dealership explaining your situation and how owning a car can impact your life. The dealership may be more open to helping you out if you are willing to share your story face-to-face and, in return, promote their business.
Begin a Gofundme
If you’re still struggling to come up with the money for a car, you can always start a GoFundMe campaign. You’d be surprised how many people are willing to help out if they know that it’s going towards a good cause.
Just make sure to set up your campaign page in a way that is engaging and inspires people to want to donate.
Is There a Government-sponsored Free Car Program?
Unfortunately, there are no government-sponsored programs that offer free vehicles to individuals. However, there may be other assistance programs available that can help you with the cost of living expenses, such as food, healthcare, housing, and in some circumstances, financial assistance.
These assistance programs may help you save money so that you can eventually purchase a car of your own. For more information on government assistance programs, you can visit the website of the Department of Health and Human Services.
Related: Does Buying a Car Help Your Credit?
Final Thoughts
When you’re suffering through a financial crisis, it might seem like you’ve gotten caught in a never-ending loop. You don’t have the cash to purchase a vehicle, so you can’t get to work without one. You’re trapped in a circle.
A free used car could change your financial situation. How? A car opens up opportunities for employment. It helps you keep your job and earn a paycheck to support yourself and your family. A car also gives you the independence to run errands and take care of personal business without relying on others for transportation.
If you’re struggling to make ends meet, consider reaching out to one of the organizations and following the tips above. They just might help you get the free car you need to turn your life around.
