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Fuel Assistance Programs for Low-Income Households

Updated Reviewed by the Free Gas Cards Foundation assistance teamSources cited

Fuel assistance comes in two forms: help with vehicle fuel (gas cards and vouchers from charities and organizations like ours) and help with home heating fuel such as oil, propane, kerosene, natural gas and electricity through the federal LIHEAP program. Weatherization programs then lower future fuel bills.

Mother and child receiving fuel assistance at a gas station

Vehicle fuel assistance (gasoline)

Gasoline help comes from charities, churches, Community Action Agencies, Medicaid travel benefits and Free Gas Cards Foundation, which gives eligible households $100–$200 gas cards every 6 months. See 12 ways to get free gas cards.

Home heating fuel assistance (LIHEAP)

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills, including heating oil, propane, kerosene, wood, natural gas and electricity, plus crisis help when you are about to run out of fuel or face a shutoff. Apply through your state or local energy assistance office; see your state guide.

Weatherization: use less fuel

The Department of Energy's Weatherization Assistance Program funds insulation, air sealing and heating repairs for income-eligible homes, which cuts fuel use year after year.

Who qualifies

Most fuel programs use income limits (often 150%–200% of the poverty guideline) or benefits such as SNAP, SSI or TANF. See our income limits table.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is fuel assistance?

Help paying for fuel, either gasoline for your vehicle or heating fuel for your home.

Does LIHEAP pay for car gas?

No. LIHEAP covers home energy. For car fuel, use gas card programs and charities.

Can I get fuel assistance for propane or oil?

Yes. LIHEAP covers delivered fuels such as propane, heating oil and kerosene in participating states.

Sources

Program rules change often. Always confirm details directly with the agency or charity before you apply. Free Gas Cards Foundation is not affiliated with the government agencies or charities listed.

James Carter, Program Director, Free Gas Cards Foundation
Written by the Free Gas Cards Foundation assistance team · Reviewed by James Carter, Program Director

Our team helps families apply for gas cards every day. This guide was researched from the official sources listed above and last reviewed on . Read our editorial policy, program rules and transparency commitments. Spot an error? Email info@freegascards.org.

Need help paying for gas this month?

Eligible households can receive a free gas card worth $100, $150 or $200 once every 6 months. Applying is free.

Apply for a Free Gas CardCall 1-800-633-6157