Where to get help with gas
- 211 — ask for gas cards or transportation vouchers in your area
- Salvation Army, Catholic Charities and St. Vincent de Paul — many local offices give one-time gas cards
- Churches — benevolence funds often help with gas for work or medical trips
- TANF and workforce (WIOA) programs — can cover gas while you work, search for work or train
- Medicaid — many states reimburse mileage for driving to covered medical appointments (details)
- Cancer and medical charities — some cover gas for treatment travel
LIHEAP is not gas money
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps with home heating and cooling bills, not gasoline for your car.
Save on fuel
- Compare prices with a free gas price app
- Use grocery and warehouse club fuel rewards
- Keep tires properly inflated and remove extra weight
- Combine errands and drive smoothly
- Ask your employer about commuter or mileage benefits
Be careful of "free gas card" giveaways on social media that ask for personal information. Learn about scams.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get free gas cards if I am low income?
Yes, often as one-time help from charities, churches and caseworkers. Call 211 to find options near you.
Does the government give gas money?
Not directly, but TANF, workforce programs and Medicaid mileage reimbursement can cover fuel in specific situations.