Are you in the market for a new car but don't have the means to buy one? The average cost of a new car in the United States is $37,577, and while the average monthly payment for a car loan is $520, these figures can still be a steep price for some.
If you're wondering if there are any grants available from the government or private institutions to help you purchase your dream vehicle, read on. Believe it or not, there are actually several options available.
Let’s take a look at the different grants to buy a car and how they work.
Understanding Grants To Buy A Car
Grants to buy a car are financial aids provided by government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private foundations to individuals who need a vehicle. These grants are designed to help people with limited financial resources purchase a car, which can improve their mobility and increase their access to work, education, and healthcare. There are also grants to help you repair your existing vehicle.
Unlike loans, grants do not have to be repaid and can provide a much-needed boost to those struggling to afford a car. Several different types of grants are available, each with its own specific eligibility requirements and application process. The grant may cover the full cost of the car or only a portion of the cost. They may also include additional funds for car insurance, registration fees, and other related expenses.
Ways To Get Grants From The Government
The government typically awards grants to state communities and non-profit organizations. However, in certain cases, individuals can also gain access to car grants from the government. Check the following out.
Apply For Free Car
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can always apply for a free car from the government. These are usually donated new or used cars that can be bought at a huge discount, leased, or given completely free. There is typically a long process and a long list of qualifying criteria, but you can always ask your state office how to get one.
Most states also receive federal government assistance and grants that they administer through local charities in order to give low-income individuals living near or below the poverty line access to free vehicles.
Government Grants
The US government does not offer a direct program to give away free cars to individuals. However, there may be grants available through government agencies or non-profit organizations to help individuals purchase a car, especially those who face financial difficulties or need transportation for essential purposes such as work or healthcare.
Federal Grants
The US government offers federal grants annually for transportation purposes such as purchasing new vehicles, repairing existing ones, or other purposes. Typically, these grants are granted to state and local government agencies and non-profit organizations providing public transportation services for seniors, veterans, and other demographics.
Although it may be a long shot, you can still check the federal grant database for any grants for individuals to buy a car. This happens occasionally and can help you purchase your dream vehicle.
State Grants
Your local state may run a grant program to give you free cars if you meet certain eligibility requirements. This website is a good resource to help you identify state-funded grants and check if there are any specific vehicles.
For example, the State of California runs a Clean Vehicle Assistance Program that gives grants to qualified low-income families so they can purchase a new hybrid or electric vehicle.
Charity Programs
Another option is to look into charitable organizations that provide grants for individuals in need of transportation assistance. These organizations typically focus on helping people who cannot afford cars due to medical issues or other special circumstances, such as being a single parent or having recently relocated due to military service.
Here are examples of charitable programs that give car grants:
- Cars4Heroes
- Cars4Christmas
- Good News Garage
- Working Cars For Working Families
- 1-800-Charity Cars
Get Donations
Vehicle donation services are organizations that allow individuals to donate their old or unwanted vehicles, including cars, trucks, boats, and RVs, to support various charitable causes. In exchange for their donation, the donor may be eligible for a tax deduction, depending on the vehicle's value and the tax laws in their area. Some vehicle donation services may also offer free car grants to eligible individuals who need transportation. These grants are typically awarded based on financial need, and the recipient may be required to provide proof of income, residency, and other eligibility criteria.
However, in most cases, donated cars are repaired and sold for a very low value that low-income families can afford. If they decide to take out a loan, they can get the car for small monthly payments.
Join Government Quiz
Always stay tuned to your state's announcements for when there are government-sponsored giveaways for free cars. This usually happens when there's a holiday, such as Independence Day.
Contribute To The Community
If you have the skills and talents, don't hesitate to help your community and significantly contribute with what you have. The government regularly honors talented individuals who have positively impacted their communities, which is one way to get a free vehicle. In most cases, you can also get a free house, a scholarship, or a cash award.
There are several options for getting government grants and other assistance in purchasing a car. From state-sponsored grants and charitable organizations to various government programs, you may be able to find a way that suits your needs and budget best. Do some research on different grants to buy a car in your area. You could end up driving away with the car of your dreams.
Are you a single mom in need of a car? Check out these free car grants for single mothers.
