When the stimulus checks came out, I bought an electric bike because I couldn’t afford a car with all the costs like gas, insurance, and maintenance. The biggest issue was the insurance.
Now, I’ve found a car that fits my needs, and I’m ready to get a loan for it, but I know I won’t be able to afford the insurance. Even the cheapest option I found was $100 a month with State Farm, and that’s too much for me on Social Security Income.
A car would be super helpful, but I just can’t manage the cost of insurance along with everything else. Are there any programs out there that help cover insurance costs? I’m in Michigan. Even a little help could make a big difference.
Unfortunately, Michigan has some of the highest car insurance rates, and I’m not aware of any assistance programs.
If you’re getting a car loan, the lender will require full coverage starting the day you buy the car. I’d suggest shopping around more, but if you can’t afford the insurance, it might be best to hold off on the car.
Hi everyone, I’ve been homeless for the past few months but finally found a place and am trying to get back on my feet. I need help with my car insurance and haven’t found any resources, so I’m reaching out here. I don’t need cash directly; I can provide my policy number and the insurance company if anyone can help. Anything would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
I haven’t heard of any programs that specifically help pay for car insurance. Your best bet is to shop around and look for discounts. If you’ve been uninsured for a while, your rates might be higher.
I don’t think there are any non-profits or government programs that cover car insurance. You might find gas card assistance or, in rare cases, help with repairs or vehicle replacement, but those are typically reserved for high-need situations, like transporting kids to important appointments.
You might consider upgrading from an e-bike to a motorcycle instead of a car. Motorcycle insurance can be much cheaper—often around the cost of a single month of car insurance for a whole year. Smaller bikes can get 60-80 mpg, but you’d need to invest in safety gear. Of course, motorcycles aren’t ideal for Michigan’s winters with snow and ice.
Even with a bike, vehicle ownership on SSI can be tough. Major repairs could easily cost over $1,000, and it’s hard to cover those unexpected costs on a tight budget.