Is the rising cost of gas making it hard to fill up your tank? If so, there might be some relief on the way, The U.S. government, along with several non-profit organizations, is working to support those facing financial hardship by offering free gas cards to qualifying families.
Curious about how you can take advantage of this help? Let’s explore the programs offering free gas cards and vouchers, and learn how you can apply for them.
Table of Contents
How Can I Get Free Gas Vouchers & Card Online?
You can get a free gas card through various government programs and non-profit organizations.
Free gas cards are primarily distributed by government programs and charitable organizations to support individuals and low-income families who struggling to afford fuel costs.
This program provides each card with a unique code and aims to ease transportation expenses for those facing financial hardships, ensuring they can access essential services and opportunities.
By using these Free gas Vouchers, people can save money on fuel and spend it on other necessities.
So, let’s find out which organizations provide free gas vouchers or cards, and how you can apply for them.
Best Ways to Get Free Gas and Vouchers When You’re Out of Money ✅
#1. Salvation Army Free Gas Vouchers Program
The Salvation Army helps needy people through charitable programs like these. They offer free gas vouchers for people who need to travel for essential things like doctor visits or job interviews.
You might receive gas money, bus passes, or long-term vouchers. They can also assist with car repairs.
To apply, reach out to your local Salvation Army office. They will inform you if you qualify for their gas vouchers and will help you with the application process.
What They Offer:
- Free Gas Vouchers: To cover gas expenses for critical errands.
- Bus Passes: Perfect if you don’t have a car and need to commute.
- Car Repairs: Some locations even assist with basic car repairs to get you back on the road.
- Long-term Travel Help: In certain cases, they might offer extended travel support for work or healthcare needs.
How to Apply:
- Reach Out to Your Local Salvation Army Office: Each branch manages its programs slightly differently, so start with a phone call or visit.
- Provide Proof of Need: Be ready to explain your situation, whether it’s a job search, medical appointment, or another essential reason.
- Follow Their Application Process: They’ll guide you through the steps and let you know if you qualify for vouchers.
✅ Pro Tip Apply early in the month—resources are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
#2. Saint Vincent de Paul
The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul is a respected charitable organization dedicated to helping individuals and families facing financial hardships.
They offer financial assistance, including free gas vouchers, to individuals needing transportation for day-to-day essentials such as attending job interviews, commuting to work, or accessing critical services.
If you have already enrolled for government assistance programs, you might be able to qualify for their support.
In addition to gas vouchers, they provide food, housing, job placement, thrift stores, and medical services. You can visit them at their location or contact them online.
How to Apply:
- Check Your Eligibility: If you’re already enrolled in government assistance programs, you may qualify for their support.
- Visit a Local Office: Stop by their location to discuss your needs and apply in person.
- Contact Online: Alternatively, reach out via their website for help.
✅ Pro Tip: Bring proof of enrollment in government programs—it can speed up the approval process!
#3. Use Cheap Gas Apps
Apps are a lifesaver when it comes to finding the cheapest gas near you. Why pay extra when an app can show you where to save?
- GasBuddy: The ultimate tool for saving at the gas station. GasBuddy lets you compare prices at nearby stations in real-time.
- Upside: Earn cashback every time you fill up. Just upload a photo of your receipt, and they’ll deposit cashback into your account.
- Waze: Known for navigation, Waze also highlights the cheapest gas stations on your route.
- Google Maps: Yep, even Google Maps can show you gas station prices now. Just search for gas stations and sort by price.
✅ Pro Tip: Stack these apps with your gas rewards programs for even more savings.
#4. Non-Emergency Transportation (NET)
The Non-Emergency Transportation (NET) program helps people obtain a free gas card to assist with transportation to medical appointments and travel to other required destinations.
If you’re enrolled in Medicaid or another government program, you might be eligible for a free gas card under this program.
To apply, call the number on your Medicaid card and select the appropriate option to speak with an agent who can help you apply for NET’s free gas program.
#5. Join Gas Rewards Programs
Gas stations love loyal customers, and they’re willing to reward you for it. Joining a gas rewards program can lead to significant savings at the pump. Here’s how it works:
- Sign up for free at major gas stations like Shell, BP, or Speedway.
- Earn points every time you fill up. Those points can be redeemed for discounts on future gas purchases.
- Bonus? Many programs also offer free car washes, snacks, or coffee along the way.
✅ Pro Tip: Some rewards programs even partner with grocery stores, letting you stack savings. For example, Kroger’s fuel program can save you up to $1 per gallon depending on how many groceries you’ve bought!
#6. Catholic Charities
Catholic Charities USA provides many services to help low-income families manage their finances, including household expenses and fuel costs.
They also offer counselling, education, disaster relief, emergency financial assistance, shelter, food, clothing, and more.
With over 3,600 locations in the U.S. and around the world, you can visit a local office or contact them online for assistance.
How to Apply:
- Visit One of Their 3,600+ Locations: Find a local Catholic Charities office near you.
- Contact Them Online: For those unable to visit, their website offers tools to connect with services directly.
- Explain Your Need: Whether it’s fuel costs or other expenses, share your situation to explore available support options.
✅ Pro Tip: Check their website for specific programs in your area—services vary by location!
#7. Upside – Earn Cashback on Gas
Upside is a cashback app that rewards you for purchasing gas at participating stations. You can get $0.75 off per gallon for your first two fill-ups.
While it doesn’t directly provide free gas, the cashback earned can significantly offset the cost, making it a great option when you’re tight on money.
How It Works:
Withdraw Your Cashback: Once you’ve accumulated enough, you can cash out via PayPal or gift cards, effectively reducing your gas expenses.
Find Participating Stations: Open the Upside app to locate gas stations in your area offering cashback deals.
Claim the Offer: Claim an offer at a nearby station before you fill up.
Pay with Your Linked Card: Pay for the gas using your regular payment method (debit or credit card).
Earn Cashback: The cashback amount (e.g., $0.25 per gallon) is added to your Upside account within a few days.
#8. 2-1-1 Program
The 2-1-1 program, run by the United Way, is an excellent resource for finding help. It offers support for veterans, free gas programs, addiction services, and more.
While the United Way itself might not distribute gas cards directly, it can connect you to the appropriate organizations that do.
By calling 211 or visiting their website, you can find information on the locations that provide free fuel, rides, food pantries, housing, healthcare, and emergency financial help.
#9. Get Instant Cash with Cash Advance Apps to Fill Your Gas Tank
Cash advance apps offer instant loans, many with no interest or fees, such as Dave, Earnin, and SoloFund.
These apps provide short-term loans or advances on your paycheck and are a great solution when you’re low on cash and urgently need money for gas.
How It Works:
- Download the App: Popular apps like Earnin and Dave let you borrow small amounts, such as $100–$500, based on your income and spending habits.
- Link Your Bank Account: The app analyzes your direct deposits and spending patterns to determine how much you can borrow.
- Request an Advance: Once approved, you can request the funds and receive them instantly or within 1–2 business days.
- Repayment: The app automatically deducts the borrowed amount from your next paycheck, making repayment hassle-free.
#10. Wheels To Work
Wheels To Work, also known as the Goodwill Car Program, helps low-income families with transportation needs.
This program provides free gas cards and sometimes even offers a free car.
To qualify, you must be employed full-time for 6 to 12 months, provide proof of income with recent pay stubs or a W-2 form, and demonstrate that having a car is essential for your job.
#11. National Urban League
Founded in 1911, the National Urban League (NUL) is a well-established civil rights organization that runs the ‘Feed the Need/Fuel Drive’ Program, which helps people in their hard times.
They partner with other organizations and provide free food, clothing, and gas vouchers.
With 92 affiliate offices, the league has helped around 3.2 million people. You can visit them in person, contact them through their website, or call 212-558-5300 for more information.
#12. Love INC (Love in the Name of Christ)
Love INC, established in 1977, is a network of local churches that work together to support people in need.
They offer financial help, free gas vouchers, and other essentials like clothing, personal care items, and even appliances.
With over 130 affiliates across the U.S., they’re a widespread support system. You may contact them by calling 320-759-3022 or visiting their website.
#13. Red Cross
The Red Cross is known for its blood donation services but also helps with disaster relief, food distribution, and support for veterans and military families.
Occasionally, they run promotions where donors can win free gas for a year, valued at $6,000, or receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice.
Keep an eye on their offers and events for more opportunities.
#14. Earn Gift Cards for Free Gas
Why pay for gas when you can let your phone do the work? Here’s how to earn free gas gift cards:
- Survey Sites: Platforms like Swagbucks, My Points, and Inbox Dollars pay you for simple tasks like watching videos or answering surveys. Redeem those points for gas gift cards.
- Cashback Apps: Use apps like Rakuten and Fetch Rewards to earn cashback on your regular shopping. Many offer free gas gift card options in their rewards section.
- Loyalty Bonuses: Keep an eye out for promotions that give gas gift cards as sign-up bonuses—free money for something you’ve already done. Yes, please.
#15. Free Gas from the government
Did you know some government programs provide free gas assistance? While it’s not widely known, help is available if you’re eligible:
- Nonprofits and Local Charities: Organizations like the Salvation Army and Catholic Charities often work with government grants to provide free gas cards to low-income families or those in need of transportation for work or medical appointments.
- Transportation Assistance Programs: Many local governments offer gas vouchers as part of programs aimed at helping unemployed individuals get to job interviews or new workplaces.
Quick Note: Eligibility requirements vary, so reach out to local government offices or nonprofits in your area to see if you qualify.
How can you Apply for these programs to get free gas vouchers?
To apply for these programs to get a free gas card, follow these steps:
- Check Eligibility: First, find out if you qualify for the program.
- Visit In Person or Apply Online: You may need to visit a case manager from a charity or government agency in person. Some charities also offer online applications for free gas cards, vouchers, or fuel grants.
- Provide Proof: You’ll need to show proof of your current situation and income. This includes documents like pay stubs, job offer letters, and details of household expenses.
- Show Need: Explain why you need help with gas or transportation.
- Receive Approval: If approved, you’ll receive an email or letter confirming your gas card. The card will be sent to you via email or by post.
- Use Your Card: Once you have your card, you can visit a gas station or use it online for free gas.
By following these steps, you can get a free gas card to help you with your transportation needs.
FAQs:
Q1. Are free gas programs only for low-income families?
No. Although free gas card programs are primarily designed to assist low-income families and individuals experiencing financial difficulties, they are not exclusively for them. Some programs also extend their help to veterans and others in need.
While the main focus is on those with low income, various programs support different groups facing financial challenges.
Q2. How can I get gas when I have no money?
If you have no money for gas, you might seek help through various resources. Look into local charities, non-profit organizations, or community programs that offer free gas vouchers or assistance.
Additionally, government programs or social services in your area may provide support. You can also contact organizations like the Salvation Army or Catholic Charities for potential assistance.
Q3. How do I get free gas cards near me?
To get free gas cards near you, start by reaching out to local charities, non-profits, and community organizations. You can also visit websites like Helpforgas.com or the 2-1-1 program for more information.
Additionally, calling the local offices of charities such as the Salvation Army or Catholic Charities can help you find out about available resources and how to apply for free gas cards in your area.
Q4. Which Churches Help with Gas Vouchers?
Several churches offer help with gas vouchers, including:
- Saint Vincent de Paul
- Love In The Name of Christ (Love INC)
- Catholic Charities
- Mary’s Catholic Church
- Many United Methodist Churches
