We’ve found assistance with transportation all over the United States! If you are low income and need help getting to work, doctor’s appointments and more, then you can’t afford to miss this!
It’s no surprise that so many people are searching for assistance with transportation. The Leadership Conference Education Fund found that low income people typically spend 42% of their income on transportation costs. That’s a huge burden for low income people across the United States!
You may be able to get a free car.
We have found several ways that low income people can get a free car. Personally, this is my favorite way to get assistance with transportation because it gives you a lot more freedom than some of the other options… and I know they work, because my family won one back in 2017! Here’s everything we know about legitimate free vehicle giveaways and how to replicate our success.
Many public transportation systems have low income discounts.
Bus passes, train tickets and other public transportation systems can get really expensive when you rely on them. However, many of these systems offer free or discounted services to low income residents. You will need to contact your local public transit system or Department in charge of social services for more information, because this information varies depending on where you live.
Many bike share programs have low income discounts.
Bike share and electric scooter share programs have popped up all over the country. Users pay a certain amount of money to use this equipment and anyone can use them in the service area. It’s actually really cool – but my favorite part is that many of these providers offer low income discounts. If you live in an area with a bike share or scooter share program, check out our complete discount list.
Medicaid can help you get to doctor’s appointments.
Medicaid provides free healthcare for low income people – and Medicaid benefits include assistance with transportation to and from doctors appointments!
According to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, “Federal regulations say that Medicaid beneficiaries can get rides to and from providers when necessary… Depending on your needs and your State’s rules, rides might be by taxi, car, van, public bus or a subway. You might share your ride with others. You have to call to set up your ride in advance.”
If you receive Medicaid benefits and you need help getting to an appointment, call either your caseworker or the office in charge of Medicaid in your area.
Disabled veterans can get free rides from the DAV network.
Disabled American Veterans, or DAV, offers free volunteer rides for medical or dental needs. This service is run by volunteers and cannot cover every community. However, the DAV website says that they have donated over 3,500 vehicles for this program so it does cover many areas. See if it’s available in your area at DAV.org.
Lyft offers specific transportation assistance for low income people.
A 2019 Lyft study revealed that almost half of all Lyft rides started or ended in a low income area. As a result, they have created several LyftUp programs that offer assistance with transportation in low income areas.
First, the Jobs Access program helps low income workers commute to job interviews, job training, and transportation for the first three weeks of employment. This program is available in several cities, including Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New Jersey, New York, Oakland, Philadelphia, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Tacoma, and Washington DC.
This program is offered through a partnership with Goodwill and the United Way. In order to get a free rideshare, bike or scooter ride, you will need to contact the company in advance. You cannot just book a Lyft and expect it to be free. You’ll need to apply for the LyftUp Jobs Access Program on Lyft.com.
Lyft has also offered a Grocery Access Program that appears to still be operating, but I could not confirm what areas participated. Historically, they have also provided free transportation to polling locations for elections, transportation to essential services and resources in underserved communities, and more. Visit their LyftUp Programs list for details.
TANF may offer assistance with transportation.
TANF, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, is a low income program that provides cash benefits to families who qualify. The program is designed to help families transition out of poverty. I was able to uncover multiple reports that indicated that TANF funds can be used to help low income people with transportation to and from work.
Specifically, I found several reports indicating that transportation was a key problem that TANF was designed to solve. One report reads, “In some areas, there is a mismatch between where most entry-level and service sector jobs are located and where most welfare recipients live. Two-thirds of new jobs are in the suburbs, but three of four welfare recipients live in rural areas or central cities, with few recipients owning reliable cars. Many entry-level jobs require evening or weekend hours in areas that are poorly served by existing transit routes or are not within a reasonable commute time. Even in metropolitan areas with extensive transit systems, studies have shown that less than half the entry-level jobs are accessible by transit.”
As a result, states were urged to find a way to help low income TANF participants with transportation, especially for work. If you need assistance with transportation, I strongly recommend that you contact your state agency in charge of TANF.
Local organizations may have volunteer driver programs.
Many nonprofits and charities have recognized the transportation crisis that low income people face and have created volunteer driver programs. Over the years that I’ve been running Low Income Relief, I’ve found countless senior centers, community centers, congregate meal sites and other organizations that offer transportation services for their clients, guests and community members.
However, these are all very local. You would need to call 211 or call around to organizations in your area to see if they assist with transportation.
I am 52 years old and had two major spine operations I’m having trouble getting rides to physical therapy the doctor the pharmacy and the grocery I live in Chalmette Louisiana is right outside of New Orleans don’t know if anybody can help or have a suggestion I’d appreciate it thank you and have a blessed day
Hi Monica. Have you contacted your local Area Agency on Aging? they may know of something.
Here are a few resources to look into:
https://lowincomerelief.com/area-agency-on-aging/
https://lowincomerelief.com/what-does-catholic-charities-help-with/
https://lowincomerelief.com/help-for-low-income-seniors/
Need help badly suffer from depression, Anxiety and type 2 diabetic and have a child have 4 days to get some type of assistance. My depression is very high.
Subject: Request for Urgent Rental Assistance I Have A WRIT of Possession with Reliable management
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to urgently request your assistance regarding my current housing situation, which has become increasingly precarious due to unforeseen financial difficulties. As a long-term resident of longview I have always valued the stability and security that my home provides. However, recent circumstances have placed that stability in jeopardy.
Due to my spouse losing their job, medical emergencies, family issues], I am struggling to meet my rental obligations. Despite my best efforts to manage my finances, the burden of Type 2 diabetes depression, rising costs, limited income has made it nearly impossible to maintain my rent payments. I am at risk of losing my home, which would have devastating effects on my child and family.
I am reaching out to urgently request rental assistance to help me navigate this challenging time. A long-term solution is essential not only for my immediate stability but also for my ability to regain financial independence. I believe that with the right resources and support, I can get back on my feet and contribute positively to my community once again.
I am aware that there are programs available to assist individuals in situations like mine, and I would greatly appreciate any guidance or support you could provide in accessing these resources. If possible, I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this matter further.
Thank you for considering my request. I am hopeful for your understanding and support during this critical time.
I also had a customize business I started but due to lack of funding I couldn’t keep up some of my creations.
Sincerely,
Latoya Howard
Hi Latoya. Keep hanging on. I know it can be hard sometimes.
Here are the resources we have found for rental assistance:
https://lowincomerelief.com/rent-relief/
I hope one can help.
I’m 61 and need help with transportation,thanks.
Hi. If the resources above are not useful in your location, it may be worth calling 211 to see if they know of anything else. – Cat
My name is Justin I’m currently living in my car my car is 3 payments behind on my auto loan becauee of hardship and reversed payments I pay 300 a month and need help making a payment to avoid repossession I start a new job Monday I’m currently enrolled in college I started august 19th I have a daughter that was just born in July named Selah I can’t find anywhere that helps with my situation please any help any feed back
Hi. Here’s some info that we hope helps!
https://lowincomerelief.com/charities-that-help-with-car-payments/
Help with car insurances and getting my car in my name
Hi. Depending on where you live, this may be an option: https://lowincomerelief.com/low-income-auto-insurance/
Hello, I am 60 years of age with out income and in current need of transportation with cta.
Also, in need of toiletries.
Thank you
Hi. If the resources above are not helpful, it may be worth trying 211.
I need help with making payments on my vehicle before I lose it.
Hi Wendy. Here are the charities we know of that may offer help with car payments: https://lowincomerelief.com/charities-that-help-with-car-payments/
Is anyone here from MN & used any of these
programs?
Hi interested thanks
My daughter was in a car accident she and my granddaughter and she owned a 2000 Honda element with the ramp and hand controls. The insurance paid very little if anybody knows anything about disabled ramp cars they are very expensive wondering if there’s any help with assistant to help buy her a new one well, not new, but new to her, thanks Mama Bear
Hi Glinda. Here are some possible resources:
https://lowincomerelief.com/free-cars/
I’m located in Louisiana in need of van
need car battery and car smog was able to pay for tags senior disabled
Hi. Here are some of the articles we have that cover car repair options. I hope one helps! https://lowincomerelief.com/?s=car+repair
Hello, my name is Angie, can you tell me where I might get help with a car in Eastern Arkansas. I am a three time survivor of domestic violence, and I’m disabled. I have had my back broken twice and my right hand broke twice. I live in a rule area, and my mom and sister will not come get me to wash cloths. I have to wash in the bath tub, which is very hard to do. The trailer I rent, is unliveable, rats, roches, and I can’t get the water leaks fixed. The landlord will not fix anything. . I really need a car. Can you please help?
Hi.
Here are the resources we know about for getting a car:
https://lowincomerelief.com/free-cars/
Hi Tammy. If the resources above are not helpful, it may be worth calling 211 to see if there is anything else they can suggest in your area.
A friend of mine’s daughter is in Denver, Pennsylvania. And she lives in Knob Noster Missouri, where can I get some help to get her to the hospital? Her daughter is on The Verge a passing away
Hi. If the resources above are not helpful in her area, it may be worth calling 211 to see if there is anything else they can suggest.
Hi. If the resources above are not helpful, it may be worth calling 211.
You can also try your local Area Agency on Aging https://lowincomerelief.com/area-agency-on-aging/
I really hope and pray that this program helps me to get a vehicle I need one really bad ???????? it became overwhelming and having anxiety because I don’t know what to do with her for someone to help me.
@Victoria, what area are you in
Yes I don’t know if you made out my messenger not but I just resent me got my legs amputated in I didn’t know that was coloring I’m sorry
Yes I just got some people and make amputated and I really need help with transportation like taking me to the grocery store and stuff like that I have no freaking help I’m sorry I cry everyday I can’t live like this terrible and nobody in my friend call me now because of the wheelchair what I’m not sure what it’s going to get it please I need help going to the grocery stores?
Hi Glenda. I’m so sorry. That’s a huge things to go through.
If the resources above have not been helpful, it may be worth calling 211 to see what you are eligible for. There should be a transportation service available in your area or through your health insurance.
My family’s really needs a vehicle and it’s been 2 years since we have had one please help
Hi Amanda. This info may help: https://lowincomerelief.com/free-car-repair-for-low-income-families/
I do not need low-income relief, but I am a single parent who needs assistance urgently with transportation for my 8th grader to school. His school does not offer transportation and I can find no safe way for him to get to school every morning. This is a recent development. We only have about 6 weeks left of school. I’ve looked everywhere I know to look for help.
Hi Denise. It may be worth calling 211 to see if they know of any resources in your area. – Cat
I took public pre appointment rides in Boiling Springs, SC they arrived before time in the dark sometimes and a couple of times I had to walk over 17 miles home from Barnwell,SC. I had no one to call I just relocated from out of state. PTSD?
I am starting a job on Thursday a DHL and I am in need of transportation because I don’t have any money to get a lyft driver to take me there. So I was reaching out to y’all to see can y’all help me getting a ride to the job. And also to continue to take me there until I can afford to pay a Lyft driver
Hi Benita.
If the options above can’t help in your case, it may be worth calling 211 to see if there are any programs in your area that can help with work expenses and transportation.
I live out in the middle of Pennsylvania farm country in huntingdon county. I desperately need a ride to go get valid ID so I can file taxes and get a car. I also need ID for a social security disability doctor appointment on Monday. I can’t believe people just don’t care anymore, I even offered people money to do it. I can’t afford a taxi or Uber to come out here. I am alone. I don’t know who to turn to.
Hi Kellie.
If you haven’t had any luck with the options listed above, it may be worth calling 211 to see if they know of anything. I know how difficult it can be to feel stranded at home.
I desperately need help with a vehicle I live in the country it took me 2 hours to walk to town I need a job but noway to get my there please help
Hi Angel. If the above options have not been helpful, it may be worth calling 211 to see if there is anything else they can suggest.
Also, this article may be helpful: https://lowincomerelief.com/free-cars/
I can’t get no assistance for transportation to
Dr.i have eye surgery tomorrow an I’m gonna cancel because u can’t get there an back I live in polk county fl
Hi Brenda.
It may be worth calling 211 to see if there is something they can suggest.
I appreciate your time, thank you. Unfortunately I have had to work part time for years, due to two brain aneurysm and suffer from seizures. I have little money to afford rent and other bills. I will continue to work for long as possible but my seizures are getting worse and now my mental health conditions are out of control. On the 28th I was attacked on the freeway without any reason. I don’t have the ability to fix my car and fear homelessness is coming soon.
Allen E Varner ll
Hi Allen. Have you had a chance to apply for disability yet?
https://lowincomerelief.com/ssi-benefits/
I needing help with getting to work I have know car and I got a chance to go to work can you please tell me how I can get help with a car so I can go to work
Hi Shirley. It may be worth calling 211 to see if there is anything else they can suggest.
Please advise information for a free car.
Regards,
Kimberly
Hi Kimberly. Here’s the info we have on free cars: https://lowincomerelief.com/free-cars/
I need help with transportation. I want to work but can’t get there? I live in Clarksville De.
Hi Paula. If the info above isn’t helpful in your case, it may be worth reaching out and calling 211 to see if they know of any programs in your area.
I need transportation assistance from Maryland to Georgia. I’m trying to get to a treatment center. I just need to get there.
Hi Ken. If the above options are not helpful, it may be worth calling 211 to see if there is anything else they can suggest.
Hi Nina. If you have already looked into the options above, here are some other ideas:
https://lowincomerelief.com/free-car-repair-for-low-income-families/
I am looking for vehicle repair assistance in conta costa county does any one have a list of repair shops that give assistance.
Thank you
Hi Sandi. Something in this article may be able to help: https://lowincomerelief.com/free-car-repair-for-low-income-families/
I live in a rural area where there are no buses, no taxis and lyfts dont come this far for my appts. I need a car thats the only solution, but no money to buy 1 or money for the up keep on 1. I have missed so many appointments bcz my insurance says they will b there then no show.
Hi Joyce. That sounds like a tough situation. The only thing else I can think to recommend is this: https://lowincomerelief.com/free-cars/
My son lives in Ephraim utah I really want to go see him soon for Xmas, my car will not make it. I’m trying to see if anyone is going to be traveling to Ephraim anytime soon.
Hi Becky. If you have already tried the options listed above, it may be worth calling 211 to see if they know of anything else in your local area.
Yes Me and roommate are both on SSI disability and need a transmission in our car . We simply need repairs so we can make the 110 miles to get to our medical appointments. Thank you
Hi KariLyyn. Here’s some more information to look into: https://lowincomerelief.com/free-car-repair-for-low-income-families/
I’m Ssn-Juanita A Cruz. I’ve been here almost over 4 wks. I’m unemployed been applying for work on line. I have an appt September 21 at 1pm this Wednesday I need some help for transportation to the eye specialist. Also city bus transportation to and from work when hired. This is the first time I been to this state. Thank u
Hi. If none of the options mentioned above are useful in your area, it may be worth calling 211 to see if there is anything else they can suggest.
Hello,
I will be starting a new job in Delaware and I don’t drive or have a vehicle. Is there anyway I can get some type of help with transportation
I will be working part time from 8-4 at Bayhealth hospital. Please and thank you
Hi Nik. There may be some options. Here’s a good page to start with:
https://lowincomerelief.com/get-help-with-transportation-costs/
iam78years old and in need of someone to take me to my doctor appt please help .i do not have medicaid.
Hi JoAnn. Reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging.
https://lowincomerelief.com/area-agency-on-aging/
or dial 211 to see what else they can suggest.
I have a car but I can’t afford to fix it I need a grant to help fix my car I’m a disabled educator 62 years okd
Hi Lynn. There are several organizations that help with car repairs. Maybe one can help >> https://lowincomerelief.com/free-car-repair-for-low-income-families/
Hello im trying to get help with renewal of tags and insurance makes it hard to get to work when getting a job. i have no income and looking for a job right now.
@Isaac,
I’m looking for free transportation for an appointment I have no income I only receive SNAP I’ve applied for medical assistance I was seen today for X-rays on both my knees thru Baycare financial services