Gasoline is becoming expensive, pushing drivers to find ways to get free gas.
In fact, 86 percent of American adults are more concerned about future gas prices than household bills, groceries, and other essentials.
As a non-driver, I don’t have to worry about gas prices since I walk, ride my bike, or take public transportation.
However, I can relate to everything else going up, so I’m here to help.
Below are a few tips and tricks to get free gas for your car, truck, lawn mower, or any other gasoline-powered machine you have.
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How to Get Free Gas at the Pump
These methods allow you to get gas without paying anything.
1. United Way/211
United Way’s 211 program helps individuals access essentials like food, shelter, and of course, gasoline.
Call to inquire about obtaining gas vouchers.
2. Catholic Charities
Catholic Charities has 168 agencies dedicated to helping people find affordable housing, food, and more.
Find your local agency by typing in your city, state, or zip code, then contact it to get gas voucher information.
3. Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
Have Medicaid?
If so, you can call the number on the back of your card to apply for its NEMT program. (It offers free transportation services to take you to medical appointments.)
4. Salvation Army
This organization assists with essential needs like shelter, utilities, and food.
Its locations also offer Salvation Army gas vouchers/cards, so look up your nearest facility to ask about them.
5. Hotel Chains
Many hotel chains offer free gas rewards to guests as a thank-you; they are especially useful if you’re taking a long road trip.
For example, Marriott and IHG Hotels & Resorts offer free gas cards (worth $50 or more) to guests who stay at least 2 nights.
Consider asking about any gas rewards during your next vacation.
6. The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul
The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SSVP) helps with food pantries, thrift stores, financial assistance, and other programs.
Locate the nearest SSVP facility and contact them to learn more about gas cards or vouchers.
7. Charge Someone for a Ride
What could be a better way to (temporarily) avoid paying for gas than to charge for a ride?
There were times when I gave someone gas money after they drove me home or to another destination.
8. GasBuddy
GasBuddy helps you find affordable gas prices in your city, state, or province.
Plus, every time you make purchases at select retailers, you receive free gas rewards.
Download for Apple or Android.
9. Gas Station/Store Loyalty Programs
Many gas stations and grocery stores have loyalty programs that give you fuel points toward your purchases.
10. Surveys
Survey companies like Swagbucks and Prize Rebel reward you with gift cards to use at select gas stations. (Taking surveys is also a good way to make extra money on the side.)
11. Open a Checking/Savings Account
Need a new bank account?
Most banks offer new clients bonus money to encourage them to sign up for a checking or savings account.
You could use the bonus money to pay for gas before your next trip.
12. Become a Cop
Did you know that police officers don’t pay for the gas they use in their cars? (This is something I recently learned about, too.)
This is the ultimate free gas hack!
They travel to specially guarded locations to fuel their patrol vehicles.
If you’re interested in pursuing an exciting yet dangerous career where you don’t have to purchase gas, consider police work.
13. Carpool, Bike, Public Transportation
You can avoid paying for gas altogether if you take a break from driving.
Join a carpool if you have a close relationship with your work colleagues. (You could also ride your bike if you live within a few miles of your workplace.)
If applicable, take the train, subway, or bus. (What’s great about this method is that it allows you to listen to music, read, or just daydream while someone else handles the driving.)
Fuel ‘Er Up: Get Gas for Free!
Let’s face it: inflation stinks as much as gasoline itself.
Fortunately, you can use these tips to obtain free gas and put your mind — and your wallet — at ease.
