Looking for a free car in Illinois, a low-cost car, or help paying for car repairs? This page brings together the car assistance programs we found for Illinois residents, from charity car programs to government help. Listings change often, so contact each program to confirm eligibility before you apply.
| Nonprofit car programs found | 3 |
|---|---|
| Types of help available | Free cars, Repair help, Gas & rides |
| State TANF program | TANF (IDHS) |
| Low-income car insurance | No state program; assigned-risk plan available |
| Vehicle replacement grant | None found in our research |
Nonprofit car programs in Illinois
Cars of Hope
Volunteer nonprofit that repairs and donates cars to under-resourced families.
Women With Drive
Donated cars for women moving from welfare to work.
Willow Creek C.A.R.S. Ministry
Car inspections, repairs and refurbished donated cars.
Government car assistance in Illinois
TANF supportive services
Ask IDHS about transportation help for work.
Car repair help in Illinois
Fixing the car you already have is often the fastest way to keep working. These Illinois programs can help with car repairs:
- Willow Creek C.A.R.S. Ministry (Chicago suburbs)
- TANF supportive services — Ask IDHS about transportation help for work.
You can also ask Community Action Agencies, churches and charities in Illinois for one-time repair help. See charities that help with car repairs and emergency car repair assistance.
Low-income car insurance in Illinois
Illinois does not run a state low-income car insurance program. Drivers who are turned down by regular insurers can get coverage through the state’s assigned-risk plan, and most drivers can lower their premium by comparing quotes, choosing appropriate coverage for an older car, and asking for good-driver and low-mileage discounts. Read our guide to low-income car insurance by state.
Statewide help available to everyone in Illinois
- TANF (IDHS): ask your caseworker about “supportive services” or transportation assistance for work.
- 211 Illinois: dial 2-1-1 for local car repair funds, gas vouchers and car programs.
- Community Action Agencies: many run car, repair or emergency assistance programs.
- National programs: 1-800-Charity Cars, NABC Recycled Rides and nonprofit car loans.
- Veterans: the VA Automobile Allowance and adaptive equipment grants.
- Insurance: see low-income car insurance options for Illinois drivers.
How to apply for car help in Illinois
- Gather your documents using our application checklist.
- Ask a caseworker, employer, church or counselor for a referral letter.
- Contact the Illinois programs above that match your needs.
- Apply with Free Car Help — it is free and takes about 10 minutes.
Never pay an application or delivery fee for a free car. Learn the warning signs of free car scams.
Frequently asked questions
Are there free car programs in Illinois?
Yes. Illinois has nonprofit programs that give donated cars to people in need, usually with a referral. Low-cost car, loan and repair programs are also listed on this page.
Does Illinois have government help with cars?
Illinois’s TANF program (TANF (IDHS)) can provide transportation supports such as car repairs or gas help for eligible families. TANF supportive services: Ask IDHS about transportation help for work.
How do I apply for a free car in Illinois?
Contact the programs on this page, ask a caseworker or nonprofit for a referral letter, and submit a free application with Free Car Help. Never pay a fee to apply.
Car programs in states near Illinois
Most car programs only serve their own area, but if you live near a state line, or are moving, these neighboring states may have options:
- Free car programs in Wisconsin — including Wheels-2-Work – Central Wisconsin Community Action and Work-n-Wheels
- Free car programs in Iowa — including Wheels for Work – Northeast Iowa Community Action and Wheels for Work – United Way of Greater Fort Dodge
- Free car programs in Missouri — including Working Wheels for Families and Project H.O.P.E. – Community Partnership of Southeast Missouri
- Free car programs in Kentucky — including Goodwill Cars to Work and Goodwill Last Mile to Work
- Free car programs in Indiana — including Combined Community Services – Wheels to Work