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Transportation Assistance for Low-Income Families

Not everyone needs a car right away. Transportation assistance can get you to work, school and the doctor while you save for a car or wait for a car program.

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Transportation Assistance for Low-Income Families

Free and reduced-cost rides

  • Reduced-fare transit passes: many cities offer low-income, senior, disability and student fares, sometimes free.
  • Free rides to medical appointments: Medicaid members can use non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). Veterans can use VA and DAV ride programs.
  • Workforce and TANF programs often provide bus passes for work and training.
  • Employer vanpools and rideshare programs lower commuting costs.
  • Senior ride programs through Area Agencies on Aging.
Free bus passes - transportation help help from Free Car Assistance

Rides to work and job training

Workforce centers (American Job Centers) and TANF programs often provide bus passes, gas cards or ride help for job search, training and the first weeks of a new job. Some employers offer pre-tax commuter benefits or vanpools. Ask HR what is available.

Free rides to medical appointments - transportation help help from Free Car Assistance

Paratransit for people with disabilities

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, public transit systems that run fixed routes must offer paratransit, a door-to-door or curb-to-curb ride service, for people whose disability prevents them from using the regular bus or train. Contact your local transit agency to apply.

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

How do I book a free Medicaid ride?

Call the member services number on your Medicaid card or your state's NEMT broker, usually a few days before your appointment.

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.

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

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