Need a car but can’t afford a new one? There are ways to get a car for free or at a low cost. Here’s how you can do it.
There are market apps where people donate cars, charitable groups that give used cars to families in need, and institutions like churches and government programs that offer free or financed cars. Some companies even provide free cars as employee benefits or platforms to raise funds for a vehicle. You might need to fill out forms or meet certain criteria like income level, age, or driving history.
Facebook Marketplace is a great place to find free stuff, including cars. You can find cars listed for as low as $1. Craigslist is another option where people give away or sell cars at low prices. Just be cautious—meet sellers in public, bring a friend, and inspect the car thoroughly.
Nextdoor is an app where neighbors give away items they don’t need, sometimes including cars. Set up your profile and check the ‘Free’ section.
1-800-Charity connects donated cars with families in need, including veterans and disaster survivors. Apply through FreeCharityCars.org. Cars4Christmas gives away cars during holidays and throughout the year—just fill out a form and wait for approval. Wheels for Hope, an IRS-approved charity, provides cars to those in need in North Carolina.
Goodwill sometimes receives car donations and might help you get one. They also know local dealerships that might offer free cars. OnlineCarDonation.com offers free cars, trucks, and vans to those in need. Vehicles for Change sells donated cars at low prices in Maryland, Michigan, and North Virginia.
United Way Worldwide’s 2-1-1 program helps people find resources, including cars. With Causes helps various groups, including veterans and abuse victims, by providing an “Ask for Help” form on their website.
Your local church might not have a car to give, but they can direct you to local resources or even raise money for you. Government programs like Grants.gov offer free cars, but they often prefer organizations over individuals. The Grantsmanship Center provides funds for various needs, including cars, to Native Americans.
Some jobs offer company cars, especially roles requiring travel like sales representatives and real estate agents. Crowdfunding is another option—write about your need for a car and ask for donations online.
Cars offer independence and financial stability, but the cost of owning one can be high. Thankfully, many organizations work to provide free or affordable cars. Eligibility requirements vary, but they typically include proving financial need.
You can also make money with your car by becoming a delivery driver for companies like DoorDash or Postmates, or by driving for rideshare platforms like Uber or Lyft. These gigs offer flexible hours and the potential to earn extra cash.
Donating your old car to charities like Habitat for Humanity or the American Red Cross can help those in need and give you a tax deduction. Many charities offer free pick-up services for car donations.
Getting a free car is possible through various programs and organizations, but remember that owning a car comes with expenses like insurance, fuel, and maintenance. Check the eligibility criteria and application processes of organizations like Goodwill, Vehicles for Change, and 1-800-Charity.
Having a car can significantly improve your productivity and success. It helps with commuting to work, getting to school, and moving around if you have a disability. Explore the options listed here and get started on finding a free car.