Free Charity Cars is widely known as America’s #1 car donation and distribution charity, but many people know it better by its old name: 1-800-Charity-Cars. This organization has provided over $90 million worth of free vehicles to veterans and qualifying families, so let’s talk about how you can apply for one!
What is Free Charity Cars?
Free Charity Cars was established in 1996 as 1-800-Charity-Cars. This organization had a goal of delivering free donated vehicles to families so that they could become more self-reliant.
Who is eligible for a free car?
In order to be eligible to receive a car, you will need to meet these requirements;
- Resident of the United States
- 18+ years old
- Valid Driver’s License
- Household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level
- Have a genuine need for a vehicle
- Spread the word about this charity by promoting it on social media
- Have the ability to pay the insurance, tag, title and registration fees as well as any vehicle maintenance.
- Be able to get to and pick up the vehicle as soon as the process is complete
How do I apply?
Applying for Free Charity Cars is fairly straightforward but it does require some diligence.
- Prepare your story. This organization looks for stories that are compelling or inspirational, so spend some time thinking about what makes your situation unique. What will this car mean for your family? How would it change your life? Don’t just write “I need help getting to work.” You can use this free tool if you need help.
- Fill out the application. It’s the Vehicle Request Form on their website. You will need information about your annual household income.
- Reapply every three months. This organization only keeps applications on file for three months and when vehicles become available they review the most recent applications first. You can reapply every three months to make sure you’re still being considered.
- Respond IMMEDIATELY if they reach out. The website says that if you are selected, they will reach out to the phone number on file. If you don’t answer, they will leave a message — so make sure your voicemail isn’t full! If they don’t hear back from you in 24 hours, they will email you. If you don’t respond within another 24 hours, they choose someone else. You have a grand total of 48 hours to claim your free vehicle or you will miss your opportunity.
Watch Out for Intrusive Ads
One of the things our team noticed on the Free Charity Cars website was that there is an advertisement with a big blue “Start Chat” button right above the gray “Submit Vehicle Request” button. Make sure you do not click on the ads while you are completing your application. You’ll want that gray “Submit Vehicle Request” button instead.
It’s important to remember that there is no firm timeline on how long it takes to get a vehicle once you are selected. The company says they “are at the mercy of the donating public,” so their inventory varies. Once a vehicle becomes available in a certain area, they start looking at applications of people who live in the nearby area. They look for stories that are inspirational and compelling, as well as people who have been promoting the charity on social media.
Relief Recap
Free Charity Cars is a real opportunity for low income people in the United States to get a free car. They have given away over 9,000 vehicles since 1996. However, it requires diligence and patience because supplies are limited. We wish you all the best of luck on your application!
