For many households, getting to work, school and appointments is among the largest expenses after housing and food. The good news is that there are discounts and free ride programs that many people never hear about. This guide covers the main options, whether you ride transit, need medical rides or drive your own car.
Quick facts
- Federally funded transit systems must offer reduced fares during off-peak hours to older adults and riders with disabilities.
- Medicaid covers non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for eligible members.
- Many cities have reduced-fare or fare-capping programs for low-income riders.
Cheaper public transit
- Reduced fares. Many transit agencies discount fares for older adults, people with disabilities, students, youth and low-income riders. Check your agency’s website for “reduced fare” or “fare assistance”, and ask what proof is required (often a benefits letter or ID).
- Fare caps and passes. Some systems stop charging once you hit a daily or monthly limit. Compare the monthly pass with pay-per-ride if you ride often.
- ADA paratransit. If a disability prevents you from using regular buses or trains, you may qualify for door-to-door paratransit service. Apply through your local transit agency.
- Employer benefits. Some employers offer pre-tax commuter benefits for transit passes or vanpools. Ask your HR department.
Rides to medical appointments
- Medicaid NEMT. If you have Medicaid, you may be able to get free rides to doctor visits, dialysis, pharmacy trips and other covered care. Call your state Medicaid office or health plan, ask about non-emergency medical transportation and schedule rides several days ahead.
- Veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs may reimburse eligible veterans for mileage or provide transportation to VA care. Ask your VA medical center about travel pay.
- Cancer patients. The American Cancer Society offers volunteer-driver help in some areas.
- Older adults. Senior centers and Area Agencies on Aging often run volunteer-driver or low-cost shuttle programs. Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.
Getting to work
- Ask your local workforce office or American Job Center about “supportive services”, which sometimes include bus passes or gas cards for people in training or job search. Find a center through CareerOneStop.
- Try carpooling or a vanpool, which can split gas and parking costs.
- Check bike-share or e-scooter programs, which sometimes offer discounted memberships for low-income residents.
Lower the cost of owning a car
- Shop insurance every year. Prices differ widely between companies. Ask about discounts for safe driving, low mileage, bundling and paying in full. A few states, such as California, run low-cost auto insurance programs for eligible drivers.
- Keep up maintenance. Regular oil changes, correct tire pressure and clean air filters prevent expensive breakdowns and improve fuel economy.
- Get repair quotes. Ask for written estimates from two or three shops. Community colleges with auto programs and some nonprofits offer lower-cost repairs.
- Be careful with high-cost loans. Title loans and some “buy here, pay here” financing can carry very high costs. If you are struggling with a car payment, talk to your lender about options early, and consider a nonprofit credit counselor.
- Emergency help. Local charities, found through 211, sometimes provide one-time help with gas, repairs or transit passes.
Cost-saving habits
- Combine errands into one trip.
- Compare gas prices on a map app before you fill up.
- Use a pharmacy or grocery delivery if it costs less than a special trip.
Related guides
See low-cost healthcare and prescriptions and how 211 can connect you to local help.