1-800-433-9355 support@freecarassistance.org Free help in all 50 states + DC. No fees, ever. EligibilityGet InvolvedContact

Car Payment Assistance

Very few programs pay car notes directly, but there are real ways to lower your payment, avoid repossession and refinance into a fairer loan.

Apply for Help Find Help by State
Car Payment Assistance

Steps to take now

  1. Call your lender early. Ask about a deferment, a payment extension or a modified payment plan.
  2. Talk to a nonprofit credit counselor (look for NFCC member agencies) for free budgeting and lender negotiation help.
  3. Refinance with a credit union or nonprofit lender such as On the Road Lending or Ways to Work.
  4. Ask local charities for one-time help with a payment so you can keep your car for work.
Grants to help with car payments - car payment help help from Free Car Assistance

Grants for car payments

"Car payment grants" are rare. Some TANF programs, emergency funds and churches will make a one-time payment to prevent you from losing your job. Read our guide to car grants for low-income families.

Questions to ask your lender

  • Can you defer one or two payments to the end of the loan?
  • Can I change my due date to match my payday?
  • Is there a hardship program?
  • Will you report the arrangement as on-time to credit bureaus?

Related guides

Read how to avoid car repossession and why to avoid car title loans and buy here pay here financing.

Where to start

  • Apply with us. Fill out our free online application. We review your situation and point you to programs you may qualify for.
  • Check your state guide. Each state page lists nonprofit car programs, loan programs and government help in that state.
  • Call 2-1-1. United Way's free, confidential helpline connects you with local transportation help.
  • Ask your TANF caseworker about "transportation supportive services". Many states pay for car repairs, insurance or registration when you need a car for work.
  • Contact your Community Action Agency. Most U.S. counties have one, and many run car loan, repair or gas programs.

Frequently asked questions

Can the government help with my car payment?

There is no federal car payment program. Some states use TANF funds for one-time help when the car is needed for work. Ask your caseworker.

Related help

Find help in your state

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.

Free help, no fees

Need a reliable car? We can help.

Applying is free and takes about 10 minutes. We review every application and point you to programs you may qualify for.

Apply Now 1-800-433-9355