How to get a free car seat
A car seat is a necessity for new or expecting parents. But these can be high-cost items that need replacing as often as every few months for babies and young children.
There are many ways to get a free or low-cost car seat if you qualify for one of the following programs.
Note: If you’re considering buying a used car seat or taking a free car seat from a stranger, don’t do it unless you’re certain it hasn’t been in an accident, and it hasn’t expired yet.
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Local programs#local-programs
You may find local or county-specific programs in your area that offer a free car seat, including:
- Health departments: Check to see if yours offers free or low-cost car seats for eligible parents
- Benefits office: If you qualify for SNAP or other public assistance, your benefits officer may be able to connect you with a free car seat program in your area
- Women, Infants, and Children ( WIC): This government-funded program provides support for mothers and children. If you’re already a part of WIC, you may be eligible for a free car seat through the program.
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): The federal agency has a locator tool for Child Restraint Inspection Stations in your area, like firehouses and sheriff's offices. Their certified technicians provide car seat inspections and some locations give away free car seats for needs-based families.
Hospitals and health centers#hospitals-and-health-centers
There's a good chance your local children’s hospital has a free car seat program for qualifying parents. For example, the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) offers a Child Safety Seat Program where parents can apply online for a free car seat.
You may find a similar program in your area, hosted by the local children’s hospital or nearby clinics. Ask your pediatrician to learn more.
Community organizations#community-organizations
Many nonprofits and community organizations that offer services for babies and children will also have free car seat programs. You might be able to find a free car seat through:
- Nonprofits like the Salvation Army, churches, Baby2Baby, United Way, or child-focused organizations in your area
- Online tools including local Facebook groups, mutual aid sites, and 211, which can help you find programs near you
- Community centers that partner with local organizations to provide free car seat for families
- Libraries may offer free car seat programs that lend or give away car seats to families
Medicaid or health insurance#medicaid-or-health-insurance
If you are a person with low income who qualifies for Medicaid, you may be eligible for a free car seat through your coverage.
Similarly, your health insurance provider may give you a free car seat or reimburse you for the cost of a car seat, based on need or coverage. Reach out to your health insurance provider to learn more.
How to qualify for a free car seat#how-to-qualify-for-a-free-car-seat
In order to get a free car seat from some of the county, state, or federal programs, you may need to meet the following criteria:
- Be a resident of the county or state
- Have a child under the age of 10 who needs a car seat
- Are a recipient of a benefits program (like SNAP or WIC), or are low-income and qualify for public assistance
Under these programs, you may also have to provide some or all of these documents:
- A written referral or prescription from a medical provider (doctor or nurse) for a child’s car seat
- An EBT card
- A valid ID
The prescription for the car seat should include your child’s:
- Height
- Weight
- Name
- Date of birth
- Anticipated due date (if this is for expecting parents)
With valid documentation, you will typically meet the criteria for free car seat programs through your health department, hospital, or other provider.
