Programs that pay to retire a car
Consumer Assistance Program (BAR)
Income-eligible owners can get up to $2,000 to retire a car, or up to $1,450 toward emissions repairs. Apply before doing any repairs.
Clean Cars 4 All / Replace Your Ride
Money toward a cleaner vehicle or transit when you scrap an older car. Run by regional air districts. Some regions are paused.
Replace Your Ride
Income-tiered incentives (up to $2,500 or $5,000 under state law) for removing an older gas vehicle.
EVRAP and Vehicle Exchange Colorado
Help toward an electric vehicle when you trade in an older car.
Typical requirements
- The car is registered in your name in that state, often for the past one to two years
- The car runs and can be driven to the dismantler
- Your household income is under the program limit (for income-based programs)
- For replacement programs, you buy an eligible cleaner vehicle
If your state has no program
You can still get value from an old car by selling it privately, trading it in, selling to a licensed salvage yard, or donating it to help a family in need. See the car donation tax rules.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a federal cash for clunkers program in 2026?
No. The federal Car Allowance Rebate System ended in 2009. Only state and local programs operate today.
Can I keep the money if I don't buy a new car?
For pure retirement programs like California's CAP, yes. Replacement programs require you to put the money toward an eligible vehicle.
Related help
Find help in your state
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Ohio
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- Michigan
- Illinois
- All 50 states + DC
Reviewed November 2026. This page was researched using official government and program sources. Programs change often, so please confirm details with each program before applying. How we research.