While solid gold jewelry is worth the current spot price of the gold it contains, gold-plated items are largely worthless when it comes to resale value.
However, it’s not always easy to tell the difference between the two.
If you’re wondering whether your gold-colored jewelry is real gold, keep reading to learn:
If you’re looking to sell gold jewelry, a local pawnshop, jewelry store or an online gold buyer can do a free evaluation and quote you a price based on the gold and other precious metal content in your jewelry.
How to tell if gold is real vs fake
If you have gold-colored chains, rings, or other types of jewelry, there are a few ways to determine if they’re made up of real gold:
How to tell if something is gold plated
Gold plating is a method of depositing a thin layer of gold on top of another metal to give it the appearance of a solid gold piece. The inside of the jewelry is made of a different, less-expensive metal, such as nickel or titanium. Gold-plated items aren’t considered real gold.
Here are some at-home tests to tell if your jewelry is real gold or gold-plated, as well as our advice on some tests that may damage your item.
Check the stamp or mark
One quick way to tell if jewelry is gold plated or solid gold is to look for an engraved mark or symbol, usually placed in a discreet place — like the inside of a bracelet or engagement ring, back of an earring, or on the clasp of a chain or necklace. If it’s gold plated, it may read “GF” or “GP.”
If your item is pure gold, however, it will likely be stamped with one of the following symbols, depending on the percentage of pure gold it contains. Gold used in jewelry is typically combined with another stronger metal like copper, zinc, silver, nickel, or palladium, depending on whether it’s yellow or white gold.
If you can see visible signs of wear, your jewelry is likely gold plated. You may be able to see the base metal color on the inside of a ring band or the back of a necklace that has had its plating worn off over time.
Gold plated jewelry may also develop scratches or chips over time that show the primary metal underneath.
See if the jewelry floats
If your item is gold plated, it may float in a glass of water, depending on the metal it’s covering. Real gold is dense and will sink to the bottom.
See if the jewelry reacts to a magnet
Gold should not react to a magnet, but a piece of jewelry that’s gold-plated or composed of just a small percentage of gold may move toward a magnet.
Try to find the strongest magnet you have at home, and see whether it attracts the jewelry you’re testing.
If you’re testing a chain or bracelet, be aware that the clasp may be composed of a different metal even on solid gold pieces. Place the magnet near the chain itself for this test.
If your jewelry is magnetic, it’s not real gold. However, if your piece isn’t magnetic, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s pure gold, since some gold-plated items are made of metals like silver that also aren’t magnetic.1
Here’s a video where several gold-colored bracelets are tested with a magnet:
See if the jewelry turns your skin green
High-quality pure gold shouldn’t turn green. It also should not turn your skin green if you wear the piece of jewelry frequently.
That said, gold jewelry is often mixed with another metal to make it stronger, since pure gold is fairly soft. In this vein, higher karat gold pieces likely won’t turn your skin green, but pieces with less gold might.
Rhiannon Evans, founder of Rhiannon Jewelry in Wales, says gold with a low percentage of pure gold might also cause allergies and discoloring, especially if mixed with a poor-quality metal. Copper is typically responsible for turning skin green.
Be careful about tests that could damage your jewelry
The two tests above won’t damage your jewelry. However, there are other common tests that may deface your item, especially if it is not solid gold. These include the lighter test, the biting test, and the scratch test:
Lighter test
The lighter test involves holding a butane lighter under your item for about 60 seconds. Fake gold will get darker, while pure gold should maintain its color. However, this test can damage both pure gold and gold-plated jewelry.
Biting test
Real gold is a relatively soft metal, especially at higher karat weights, so biting into it may leave a visible bite mark. However, this test isn’t foolproof, since some gold-plated items are made with less durable metals, aside from the fact that you’d damage your real gold jewelry.
Check out this YouTube video that shows how the biting test can leave bite marks in a gold coin:
Scratch test
If you take a sharp metal tool, or even something as soft as an emery board nail file, you can try to wear away some of the gold on an inconspicuous part of your jewelry.
If the outer gold wears away, you may be able to see another metal underneath, indicating that it’s gold plated.
However, this test can damage your jewelry, so it’s best to take it to a professional jeweler for evaluation if you can’t figure out whether it’s real gold or not.
You can also exacerbate this test using lemon juice or vinegar:
Baking soda test
If you mix baking soda with water to form a paste, you can rub it on the surface of your gold-colored jewelry and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. When you rinse the paste away with water, any signs of discoloration indicate the gold is fake or plated.
Here's a video showing how to do this test:
FAQs about real gold vs fake
These are some common questions about the qualities of real gold and what distinguishes it from gold-plated pieces or costume jewelry:
Does gold turn green?
No, pure gold shouldn’t turn green, nor should it turn your skin green. If your gold-colored jewelry is turning green, it is likely a copper alloy plated in gold or copper mixed with a low percentage of pure gold.
Is gold magnetic?
No, gold is not magnetic. If your jewelry moves towards a magnet, it is not real gold. If you’re testing jewelry at home, use a strong magnet to see whether the jewelry moves toward it or not.
Note that even if your jewelry is real gold, the clasp may still be made out of a magnetic material, so make sure to hold the magnet away from the clasp.
However, if your item is not magnetic, this doesn’t guarantee it is real gold. It may be gold plated with a base metal like silver, which also isn’t magnetic.
How can you tell if a gold chain is real?
The first step to determining whether a gold chain is real is to look for a stamp or mark that indicates the percentage of pure gold it contains. This symbol will likely be found on the chain’s clasp. GF or GP symbols means the chain is gold-plated.
If the chain doesn’t appear to have a stamp or mark, you can try some non-invasive tests, like testing whether it’s magnetic (gold is not) or if it floats (gold does not).
Likewise, if another color or metal seems to be showing through on parts of your chain, it is probably gold plated, not real gold.
How can you tell if a ring is real gold?
The best way to determine whether a ring is real gold is to check whether it has a stamp or mark on the inside of the band. This will tell you how much of the item is made of gold versus other metals, or if it’s just gold-plated.
While there are some at-home tests you can do, the most foolproof way to determine if your ring is gold is to bring it to a professional jeweler for evaluation.
How can you tell if unmarked gold is real?
If your jewelry is unmarked, that means it does not have a stamp, hallmark or symbol anywhere on the piece to indicate whether or not it’s real gold.
While there are some tests you can do at home to determine if your gold is real, you can also bring it into a professional jeweler for testing.
How do you check if gold is real using a lighter?
If you hold a butane lighter under the metal for about 60 seconds, non-gold metals will turn darker, while gold metals should maintain their color.
However, we don’t recommend the lighter test, since it could damage your jewelry, whether it is real gold or plated. We recommend trying other tests first, such as the magnet test or float test.
Evans says if the heat damages your gold jewelry, it may need to be refinished.
Here’s a YouTube video that shows what happens when you try this test:
Best way to know if gold is real or fake
At the end of the day, the best way to check if your jewelry is real gold is to have it evaluated by a professional.
If you are looking to sell, it is a very good time now.
After hitting a record high of $2,150 in December 2023, gold prices have remained above $2,000 per ounce, with retail investors predicting prices will rise again in the next few weeks.2
That means now is a great time to look through your jewelry box to see if you have anything worth selling.
Our number one recommendation is family-owned CashforGoldUSA, which has an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, pays within 24 hours of an accepted offer, and provides free return shipping if you choose not to sell.
“Wall Street bets on lower gold prices, Main Street sees gains next week,” Feb 02, 2024. Kitco. https://www.kitco.com/news/article/2024-02-02/wall-street-bets-lower-gold-prices-main-street-sees-gains-next-week
The internet — and, likely, your town — is flooded with businesses promising to give the highest payout for your gold. The Alloy Market is a newcomer to the space, a startup with investment money that is getting buzz in media outlets including USA Today, CBS News, MSN and others.
Is this metals and jewelry buyback site that special? Even though it has been on the market for less than a year (this is published in February, 2024)?
We evaluated Alloy based on customer reviews, scores from third-party agencies including the Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot, and overall impression.
In short: The Alloy Market is a legit place to sell your gold and silver, as well as diamonds of at least 1 carat (though they don't advertise that fact). While still young, Alloy is likely to be a force in the gold-buying market, though the process of selling to them is similar to other quality online gold buyers.
Melinda Burris is a North Carolina mom of two, a freelance writer, and digital marketing instructor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
We asked Melinda to purchase six of the same 7.5-inch Italian 10k gold bracelets from Macy’s, which the store's site stated originally retailed for $600 each but were purchased on sale for $200 each, plus tax. Her assignment was to sell the bracelets to various online and local gold buyers to report on her experience:
This was Melinda's experience:
On March 13, I went online, filled out a contact form, and requested the Alloy Appraisal Kit. I received an email within minutes confirming that my request for the appraisal kit had been received and I should receive it within three business days.
It arrived 5 business days later on March 20 via USPS, and I packed the shipping container and mailed it back the same day.
The Alloy Market sent me a payment offer of $41.49 via email on March 28, about 66% of the spot value of the bracelet. The full spot value would have been $62.86.
I called Alloy on March 29 to discuss the value of the piece and was told the value was based on gold market prices on the day of the appraisal. They would not negotiate a higher price.
They offered to pay me via mailed check, direct deposit, or through PayPal. I accepted their offer on April 2 and received payment via PayPal in less than 24 hours.
Based on my experience with Alloy, here are my thoughts:
Pros: The process was easy to complete, and the customer service representative was polite. I received payment within 24 hours of accepting the offer.
Cons: They would not negotiate.
Original offer: $41.49
Final offer/payout (no fees charged): $41.49
Percentage of spot gold price paid out: 66%
Is The Alloy Market legit?
Why we believe Alloy is legit:
A BBB score (accredited since August 2023)
4.8/5 stars on Trustpilot, based on 130+ reviews, some of which are marked ‘invited'
$25,000 insurance on every FedEx shipment
Free shipment and returns, no obligation
Most of these features are standard among leading online gold buyers, including CashforGoldUSA, Abe Mor and Sellyourgold.com.
Alloy enjoys several high-profile media mentions and has invested in a modern online presence, setting them apart from the competition.
Alloy has earned headlines for its early promise to launch an app that would allow the user to value their gold and manage the sale process, but that has been put on hold indefinitely, CEO Brandon Aversano told me.
There is currently a waitlist on their site to be notified when the app becomes available. However, Alloy currently has links on the same page to download the app from both the App Store and Google Play, which display a “this app doesn’t exist” message when you click on them.
What does The Alloy Market buy?
The Alloy Market's brand and focus is on buying all kinds of gold — jewelry, coins, bars and bullion and watch bands.
Their site says they also buy silver, platinum and palladium, and in communication with its founders, we learned Alloy also buys diamond and gemstone jewelry. Keep in mind that all but the finest and largest of gemstones are likely not of any value in such a sale, no matter where you take them, and Alloy told us they only buy diamonds of at least 1 carat in weight.
Alloy is like most online gold buyers (vs marketplaces like Worthy or myGemma, which list your item for buyers to bid on):
Go to TheAlloyMarket.com
Enter your name and address to request a USPS mailer sent to you. You will receive an email and text to which you can reply with any questions. A human seemed to have responded to my queries. Though I received my mailer the next day, Melinda’s took five days to arrive.
Follow the instructions to package your item and return it to the Newtown, Penn., headquarters. Alloy says you will receive an offer within three days, though Melinda says it took eight days to receive an offer after she sent in her mailer.
Once you accept the offer, Alloy promises immediate payment via Venmo, Paypal, ACH/direct deposit or check by mail — your choice. The whole process, assuming you send in your item right away, should be completed within a week, though transit times may vary depending on where you live.
If you prefer to sell locally, learn more about pawning jewelry.
Pros of The Alloy Market
Alloy is a solid choice for selling your precious metals, and diamond jewelry. Here’s why:
Free shipping
Insurance and guaranteed highest payout consistent with industry leaders, though their promise to accept all weights of metals makes them extra-competitive
Strong online reviews
Stylish and useful website and marketing indicate they will be competitive in the online gold-buying space for the foreseeable future
Cons of The Alloy Market
Really focused on metals vs diamonds
New company so not a lot of online reviews yet
Takeaway re: The Alloy Market
Alloy is a solid online gold buyer. Whether you regularly sell gold or this is your first gold sale, you’ll likely have a positive experience with Alloy.
The April 15th tax deadline is fast approaching, but here's some encouragement — there’s a lot of free help available to get your taxes done on time.
Whether you are looking for free tax preparation services, low-income tax filing options, or volunteer tax filing, the resources in this guide will help you file your taxes for free (or at minimal cost to you).
These free tax services are typically offered for:
Low- to moderate-income filers
Seniors who may require specific guidance on retirement tax issues
People who don't feel comfortable doing their own taxes — or just don’t want to!
If you have no idea which choice is best for you, here’s what we recommend:
After evaluating all of the major free tax prep companies, TaxSlayer Simply Free stands out as a high-quality option — and it’s affordable if your tax situation is complex and you need to upgrade to the non-free version.
TaxSlayer is accredited and has an A+ rating with the BBB, an excellent rating on Trustpilot (4.3 out of 5 stars), and a low upgrade fee of $22.95 (plus state filing fees) to TaxSlayer Classic if you need additional forms.
Honorable mention: Since TaxSlayer is not available in all states, our next pick is H&R Block Free Online. It’s available in every state, includes forms some tax prep companies charge for (like reporting alimony income), and offers a professional tax review for an upgrade of $55. Plus, you can get your federal refund up to six days early.
Best free tax prep for seniors
We think the best free tax prep options for seniors are Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). These free tax filing services are offered through the IRS and provide one-on-one, in-person help for filing simple tax returns.
Honorable mention: If your tax situation is more complex, or you prefer to file online with help, we recommend AARP Tax-Aide. IRS-trained volunteers will help you file your taxes from start to finish at no charge. This service is available to people of all ages.
Best all-around free tax prep services for everyone
Our top pick for free tax prep services is the IRS Free File program. The IRS has chosen trusted partners to deliver free federal filing to taxpayers, and you get a choice of which one you want to use. Many of them also offer free state filing. The only drawback is you’ll have to meet income guidelines (most require an AGI of $79,000 per year or less).
Honorable mention: AARP Tax-Aide has no income or age requirement to get in-person help. However, if you prefer filing online, your AGI will also have to be $79,000 per year or less.
If you owe taxes this year, or from years past, also check out our review of the best tax relief companies to get out of tax debt.
Keep reading to find out about every place that offers free tax help near you and online:
Free tax filing with the IRS
The IRS offers several options to help you file your taxes for free and get answers to any questions you may have about your return, including:
IRS Free File
IRS Free Fillable Forms
Taxpayer Assistance Centers
Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA)
VITA and TCE
Direct File
IRS Free File
IRS Free file allows qualified taxpayers to file a free federal tax return online using guided tax preparation software through partners like TaxAct and TaxSlayer. There may be a charge to file a state return. Each partner will outline any additional cost for state filings.
Qualifications:
In general, you need an AGI of $79,000 or less (some trusted partners have lower income limits, so read the AGI qualification for each partner)
IRS Free Fillable Forms offers free federal forms for people who know how to complete their own taxes. There is no guidance offered and no options to prepare state tax forms.
Qualifications:
Forms are available to anyone regardless of income level
The IRS is rolling out a pilot program called Direct File to help taxpayers file returns online at no charge. It is expected to be available in most states by March 2024.
The new filing options for federal returns will allow you to:
Choose English or Spanish
Follow an easy step-by-step process
Access support in real-time from IRS customer service reps
Access the software on computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones
Qualifications:
You lived in a pilot state in 20231
You report certain types of income, tax credits and deductions2
Whether you are a senior or you’re filing taxes for a senior family member, these resources offer free senior tax preparation near you:
VITA and TCE Tax Services
The IRS offers free tax help through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). These services are for simple tax returns and are offered from January 29 through April 15, 2024.
An example of a simple or basic tax return is one where the filer:
Uses IRS form 1040
Has taxable income from one or two sources
Does not itemize expenses
Has minimal tax credits
When you get in touch with a VITA/TCE professional, they can advise you on whether your tax situation is simple or complex.
What you get with free tax help from VITA and TCE
VITA and TCE offer free tax help to seniors and other qualified taxpayers. All VITA and TCE volunteers complete IRS-approved tax law training and are qualified to prepare basic returns and answer tax-related questions.
You may also choose to complete your own tax forms and have a VITA or TCE volunteer assist you through the process. With either option, your information is kept secure and your return is reviewed before filing to ensure accuracy.
With TCE, you can also get help navigating retirement tax topics such as pensions and income from retirement plans.
Qualifications for VITA:
Household income of $64,000 or less
Proof of disability
Ability to speak English is limited
Qualifications for TCE:
Taxpayers 60 and over
Cost:
All VITA and TCE services are free to qualified taxpayers.
The University of Illinois VITA program put together this useful video of what tax filers can expect when they work with VITA volunteers to file taxes in 2024:
Local public libraries provide access to free resources for people of all ages — including income tax filing assistance.
Many libraries employ VITA or AARP tax preparation services to help those who are unable to afford tax filing expertise (keep reading for more info). Some libraries may use local volunteer tax preparers.
For example, Boulder Public Library in Boulder, Colo., uses Tax Help Colorado, a service of the Mile High United Way.
Besides tax filing help, libraries offer:
Books about how to file taxes
Free computer use with internet access
Printers (there may be a small charge per sheet)
Printed IRS forms and publications
Qualifications:
Library tax programs may have specific eligibility requirements based on income, age, or the complexity of the tax return. Contact your local library to find out what they offer.
Cost:
While VITA and AARP tax services are 100% free, libraries may offer additional services that are either free or low-cost.
To get help:
Contact your nearest public library by searching “library near me” online.
AARP free tax preparation
A+ Better Business Bureau-rated AARP offers the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program from February 1 to April 15, 2024, which has helped more than 78 million taxpayers since 1968.
While services are geared toward seniors aged 50 and older with low to moderate income, this program offers help to almost anyone who needs it.3
What you get with free tax help from AARP
AARP’s IRS-certified volunteers can help with most tax returns. However, if your return is complex because you run a business and have employees, own rental properties, or pay alternative minimum tax, you may not qualify for free help.4
The program offers:
In-person help: Travel to an AARP Tax-Aide location to file your taxes for free with a certified tax preparer
Online help: Prepare your own federal and state taxes online using AARP’s free tax preparation software, which includes access to live help from an online tax counselor
Online tax knowledge center: Answers to frequently asked tax questions
Qualifications:
Don't need to be an AARP member
No age limit
No income limits for in-person help
To use the online tax preparation software, you must have a 2023 adjusted gross income (AGI) of $79,000 or less
Cost:
Tax preparation services are free to qualified taxpayers.
When it comes to online tax preparation, you’ll find that some tax prep software companies offer a 100% free product to process simple returns, including:
Cash App Taxes
H&R Block
TurboTax
TaxSlayer
What you get with Cash App Taxes
CashApp Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax) provides online software to process your state and federal tax returns for free. CashApp is an authorized IRS e-file service provider.
Cash App Taxes offers:
100% free filing of state and federal taxes
Free IRS audit defense (Cash App Taxes works with Tax Protection Plus, LLC, to help you respond to the IRS if you are audited, including representing you in tax hearings and conferences5)
Secure 128-bit encryption
Maximum refund and accuracy guarantee
Pros:
No hidden fees or upsells for paid tax products
Desktop or mobile access to tax software
Refunds come up to five days earlier if you deposit into your CashApp account
B rating from the BBB
Cons:
Must have a Cash App account
Not ideal for all tax forms and filing situations6
1.2-star rating on Trustpilot
What you get with H&R Block Free Online
H&R Block has been around since 1955 and offers a free online product to file simple state and federal tax returns at no cost.
H&R Block Free Online offers:
No-cost filing of state and federal taxes
Secure 256-bit encryption
Maximum refund and accuracy guarantee
Option to file with the Earned Income Credit and Child Tax Credit
Ability to deduct student tuition, student loans payments and interest
Option to report retirement contributions and alimony
Auto import of PDFs or images
Pros:
No hidden fees
Simple Q&A-style format
Federal refunds up to six days early
Desktop or mobile access to tax software
Free transfer from TurboTax Free if you want to switch
Option to upgrade to a professional tax review for $55
Multiple refund options
B rating from the BBB
Cons:
No live expert help or access to live phone or chat tech support (Upgrade to Deluxe for $35 plus $37 for each state you file
Not for business owners, side hustle jobs, passive income, or other self-employed income (Upgrade to Self-Employed for $85 plus $37 for each state filed)
No forms for Health Savings Accounts (Upgrade to Deluxe for $35 plus $37 for each state filed)
May need to upgrade if your return needs forms that are not included
1.2-star Trustpilot rating
What you get with TurboTax Free
TurboTax offers a free online DIY tax product to qualifying filers. According to TurboTax, less than 37% of tax filers qualify for this free service, which allows you to process simple returns with minimal forms.
If you start with the free product but have a more complex return, you will have to upgrade to continue, but you will not pay until you file.
TurboTax Free offers:
Free filing of state and federal tax returns
No hidden fees
Maximum and accuracy guarantee
Secure TLS encryption
Option to file with the Earned Income Credit and Child Tax Credit
Option to file Schedule 1 (income from interest, retirement, social security, alimony, capital gains, and dividends)
Pros:
Easy to use with a Q&A, step-by-step format
Easy to switch to TurboTax from most other online tax providers
Snap a photo of your W-2 with your smartphone to transfer information
Access to the TurboTax community forum
Desktop or mobile access to tax software
Audit support (Q&A with a tax pro)
Option for Spanish
Multiple refund options
B+ rating with the BBB
Cons:
No expert advice included (available for an upgrade to TurboTax Assisted, ranging between $0 and $169 depending on the complexity of your tax return)
No ability to itemize deductions
No free audit defense
Not for business owners, side hustle jobs, or other self-employed income
No forms for Health Savings Accounts
1.2-star rating with Trustpilot
What you get with TaxSlayer Simply Free
TaxSlayer’s Simply Free allows you to file a simple federal return (IRS Form 1040) for one state return for $0. To use Simply Free, your taxable income must be less than $100,000, your filing status must be single or married filing jointly, and you cannot claim dependents or itemize deductions.
If your return needs forms that are not included, you’ll have the option to upgrade to TaxSlayer Classic for $22.95, plus any state filing costs.
TaxSlayer Simply Free offers:
100% free filing of state and federal taxes
Maximum refund and accuracy guarantee
Secure SSL encryption
Option to claim education expenses
Pros:
Easy to use Q&A-style format to walk you through the return
Free, unlimited phone and email support
No hidden fees
Multiple refund options
Not for business owners, side hustle jobs, or other self-employed income
No forms for Health Savings Accounts
A+ rating and accredited with the BBB
4.3-star rating on Trustpilot
Cons:
Can’t have dependents
Not available in Alaska, Florida Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming
No free audit support or defense
In-store Walmart tax prep
While Walmart does not offer free tax help, they do offer the convenience of getting your taxes done while you shop, or you can drop them off. Through a partnership with Jackson Hewitt, Walmart offers complete tax prep services in an hour or less.
What you get with Jackson Hewitt tax service
Jackson Hewitt is BBB-accredited with an A+ rating and guarantees:
Accurate filing of state and federal returns
Largest possible refund or your money back, plus $100
Besides its in-store tax prep in Walmart, Jackson Hewitt offers an online DIY tax product for a flat rate of $25 (which includes state and federal tax return filing).
Cost:
For in-person tax services, cost varies based on location and the type of service you are requesting:
In-Person tax preparation
Drop off and go tax preparation
Review, finish, and sign your tax return
Get help with an IRS letter to resolve an issue
Some Reddit users said they were quoted hundreds of dollars for tax preparation:
Seniors can get free tax preparation from the IRS through the VITA and TCE programs. They can also get free tax filing help from the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. All in-person and online services from these programs are free of charge. You’ll just have to meet eligibility requirements.
Qualifications for VITA:
Household income is $64,000 or less
You have a verifiable disability
Your ability to speak English is limited
Qualifications for TCE:
Taxpayers 60 and over
Qualifications for AARP Tax-Aide:
You don't need to be an AARP member
There are no age limits
There are no income limits for in-person help
To use the online tax preparation software, you must have a 2023 adjusted gross income (AGI) of $79,000 or less
Are there any other low cost or discount tax preparation services?
Jackson Hewitt offers a $25 flat fee option for filing online that includes federal and state filing, from simple to complex returns. The lowest-cost tax preparation services are DIY solutions that require you to complete the return online using tax software.
When in doubt, it’s safest to choose options the IRS has vetted through its Free File program.
All Free File partners offer a free filing of your federal return. Some offer one free state filing, and others charge a discount fee to file your state return. For example, ezTaxReturn charges $19.99 for each state filing.7
You can also check with a local CPA to inquire about pricing. Some may offer a flat fee for simple returns.
If you prefer in-person help, Wendy Barlin, CPA and tax strategist, says that another option is to hire an Enrolled Agent (EA). She says that EAs are licensed by the IRS and are often less costly than a CPA.
You can find EAs through the IRS website or by calling the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA) at 800-424-4339 to get a referral near you.
Barlin also encourages taxpayers to tap into their network to find trustworthy, affordable tax help.
“Always follow recommendations of friends and family,” Barlin says. “Don’t ever work with anyone who promises you great refunds.”
How can I find someone to review my return before I file it?
If you prefer to complete your own tax paperwork and have it reviewed, you can get help from free volunteer tax programs such as VITA. They are staffed with people who have taken IRS training to help you complete your tax filing correctly.
You can find programs like VITA through public libraries, nonprofits, churches and community centers.
If you want to pay a tax professional, such as a CPA, they will have to handle the paperwork, as they are required to sign your tax forms and must ensure that they can stand by the information in those forms.
Where can I get help with state or local taxes for free?
For free help with state and local tax filing, check with local nonprofits, community programs, military support services, and state or local government tax offices. These resources may be able to point out programs where trained tax volunteers can help you navigate state and local tax concerns.
For example:
United Way offers MyFreeTaxes, a completely free service that helps you file federal and state taxes if you make $60,000 or less per year8
The Department of Defense offers MilTax, a free federal and state filing software and tax support option available to servicemembers, eligible family members, and survivors9
You can also dial 2-1-1 to find state and local tax help near you or by visiting 211.org.
Check out these other resources for low-income households:
“Direct File” January 29, 2024. IRS https://www.irs.gov/about-irs/strategic-plan/direct-file#states
“Direct File” January 29, 2024. IRS https://www.irs.gov/about-irs/strategic-plan/direct-file#income
“2024 AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service” Accessed January 29, 2024. AARP Foundation https://taxaide.aarpfoundation.org/
“How AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Can Help You Today” Accessed January 29, 2024. AARP Foundation https://taxaide.aarpfoundation.org/types-of-tax-returns-tax-aide-can-prepare
“Audit Defense when you file with Cash App Taxes” January 14, 2024. Cash App Taxes https://taxeshelp.cash.app/s/article/Audit-Defense-when-you-file-with-Cash-App-Taxes
“Forms and situations Cash App Taxes does not support” November 29, 2022. Cash App Taxes Support https://taxeshelp.cash.app/s/article/Forms-and-situations-Cash-App-Taxes-does-not-support
There is a difference between a hearing check and an audiology exam. The first is often free and can be a good gaauge as to whether you should seek a comprehensive hearing test from a medical professional.
Amy Sarow is a Doctor of Audiology from Novi, Mich., who serves as Audiology Lead at Soundly,1 a website that offers free hearing tests and hearing aid comparisons. She says comprehensive hearing tests assess the softest sounds a person can hear 50% of the time at specific frequencies.
Though DIY hearing tests can help you determine if you should seek a professional evaluation, they can’t be used as a diagnostic tool to determine the root cause of your hearing loss.
“For example, hearing loss from an ear infection affects a different part of the ear than hearing loss from loud sound exposure,” Dr. Sarow says.
Sarow suggests three DIY hearing checks you can do at home:
Rub two fingers together near your ear
Hold a ticking watch up to your ear
Have someone else whisper a phrase from behind you, and try to repeat it back
If you have trouble hearing any of these sounds, Dr. Sarow recommends testing with a licensed audiologist, who can detect the extent and type of hearing loss (i.e., sensorineural, conductive, or mixed hearing loss).
Hearing tests can also evaluate a person's speech clarity — in other words, how clearly they understand words.
Free online hearing test
There are many free online hearing tests you can take in the comfort of your home. For the best results, Dr. Sarow says you should use wired headphones and take the test in a quiet area.
These are a few websites that offer free online hearing tests — many of them require you enter your email or other information which they will use to try to sell you hearing aids:
Amplifon
Audicus
Best Buy
Eargo
Healthy Hearing
HearUSA
Jabra Enhance (also offers an app)
MDHearing
Phonak
Starkey
Soundly (also offers an app)
You can present the results of these online hearing tests to your doctor for further evaluation and treatment.
Apps that test your hearing
There are also several free hearing test apps for your phone:
Hear Me Hearing Test (4.6 stars on the App Store)
Hearing Test & Ear Age Test (3.8 stars on the App Store)
Hearing Test, Audiogram (3.9 stars on Google Play)
Mimi Hearing Test (4.7 stars on the App Store/2.6 stars on Google Play)
SonicCloud (4.6 stars on the App Store/4 stars on Google Play)
Sarow personally Mimi and SonicCloud, which she says offer a quick, free test to determine your Hearing Number in each ear, a measure of how loud speech must be before you can hear it.
“These tests are an easy way to get a snapshot of your hearing and are easy to monitor over time,” she says.
The following chart on severity of hearing loss was published in Asha, a journal of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association2:
Degree of hearing loss
Hearing loss range in decibels
Normal
-10 to 15
Slight
16 to 25
Mild
26 to 40
Moderate
41 to 55
Moderately severe
56 to 70
Severe
71 to 90
Profound
91+
Free hearing tests in your local area
If you are interested in having your hearing tested in person, these are some places you can get a free hearing test:
Pharmacies: You can usually get a free hearing test at your local pharmacy, including pharmacy chains like CVS and Walgreens.
Sam’s Club: Sam’s Club offers free hearing tests in-store for people 19 years old or older. These free hearing tests are available to members and non-members. You can schedule an appointment through your local center or online. To make a hearing aid purchase through Sam’s, you will need a Sam’s Club membership.
Miracle Ear: Miracle Ear offers online hearing tests but also offers free appointments at its 1,500 centers nationwide.
To find other local options, search “free hearing test near me” online:
Sarow says a professional, comprehensive hearing evaluation from a licensed audiologist is the best way to diagnose hearing loss and get fitted for a hearing aid.
These tests are conducted in a soundproof room with properly calibrated equipment to evaluate the type and severity of hearing loss. Audiologists can also discuss hearing protection or answer questions about communication strategies, hearing aids, or other interventions for hearing loss.
Free hearing tests for seniors
There are several free audiology resources specifically for seniors:
AARP: AARP members can take a free at-home hearing test by phone.
Medicare: Medicare3 covers diagnostic hearing tests if recommended by your health care provider. You can also see an audiologist once a year without an order from your doctor for non-acute hearing conditions and diagnostic services if you have surgically implanted hearing devices.
United Way: Visit 211.org or dial 2-1-1 on your phone to learn about options for free hearing tests for seniors in your area.
At-home hearing tests: While not yet widely available, portable technologies from companies like Shoebox and Edare can be sent or brought directly to a patient's home for testing. Speak to your doctor for an at-home testing referral.
Hearing screenings for kids
Hearing screenings are required in 37 states for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. In the remaining states, they are suggested, but not required. Check out this map to find out if hearing tests are required in your state.
Hot temperatures can be unbearable when you don’t have an air conditioner at home. The lack of a working air conditioning unit can even lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration and death.
Nancy Mitchell, a geriatric RN in Atlanta with more than 37 years of experience in geriatric wards, says these risks can compound as we get older, since our bodies become less effective at regulating body temperature and internal balance.
Free resources for air conditioning
If you are a senior, living with a disability, or you have a low income, there are resources for free air conditioners or programs that offer assistance to buy an air conditioner.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) are two government programs that may be able to help you get a free air conditioner.
These programs benefit:
Low-income households
Seniors
Disabled persons
Free air conditioner from LIHEAP
LIHEAP is a federally-funded program from the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) available in all states. Your state may call the program LIHEAP, HEAP, EAP, or some other name related to energy assistance.
The goal of LIHEAP is to keep low-income households warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
As the following video explains, LIHEAP may provide:
Each state can set specific eligibility requirements for LIHEAP, but your income cannot exceed 150% of the federal poverty guidelines or 60% of the state median income based on household size.2
Number of people in family/household
Annual income
1
$15,060
2
$20,440
3
$25,820
4
$31,200
5
$36,580
6
$41,960
7
$47,340
8
$52,720
* For families/households with more than 8 people, add $5,380 for each additional person.
Some state cooling programs have yearly application windows, while others accept applicants year-round.3 Most states and territories have LIHEAP cooling programs, but not all programs include a free air conditioner or subsidy to help buy one.
For example:
In Kentucky, you must have a medical reason that requires a cool environment, verified by a doctor or a household member that is either 65 or older or under the age of 64
In New York, the state offers a subsidy up to $800 to purchase a portable air conditioner or fan or up to $1,000 for a wall sleeve unit, but you must be a U.S. citizen with a verified medical need to stay cool5
For example, Pennsylvania just launched a pilot program for qualified LIHEAP recipients that will install free Energy Star-rated window AC units or fans, repair existing cooling units, or replace or repair a heat pump or central air conditioning system.1
In Nebraska, eligible residents can get up to $750 to repair or replace a central air conditioning system, purchase a window air conditioner, or get a free fan6
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of State and Community Programs administers the WAP, which offers weatherization services and upgrades to create a more energy-efficient and comfortable home.
Just like LIHEAP, WAP benefits vary by state. However, a typical benefit includes the cleaning, tune-up, repair, or replacement of cooling systems.7
To qualify for WAP, your household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level for household size or 60% of your state’s median income. You are also eligible if you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Aid to Families with Dependent Children.
Households get a higher priority for these services if they:
Free air conditioner from charities and nonprofits
You can often find free air conditioners for low income families, seniors, and disabled persons when you contact local charities and nonprofits that serve your city, county or immediate neighborhood.
To find sources, you can search “free air conditioners near me” or “free air conditioners in (city, county or state).”
For example, “free air conditioners in St. Louis” brought up the nonprofit, Cool Down St. Louis, which provides free air conditioners to residents who are seniors, disabled, or have young children.8
Here are some other charities or nonprofits you can check:
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army does not have a free air conditioner program. However, local Salvation Army centers occasionally partner with local nonprofits and energy providers to give out free air conditioners or electric fans to households that need them.
In St. Louis,9 Atlanta,10 and other cities across the country, qualifying households can receive air conditioning units. However, free air conditioners are not available at every Salvation Army location.
Catholic Charities USA
Each Catholic Charities location has specific programs to help neighbors in need, and some offer free cooling equipment like air conditioners and fans.
For example, Catholic Charities Diocese of Trenton partners with the Mercer County Department of Human Services Office on Aging and Rise social center to provide free air conditioning units to low-income seniors and disabled persons living in Mercer County, New Jersey.11
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
Some branches of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul help with cooling needs for residents who can’t afford air conditioners. A quick search online reveals that the following locations provide free air conditioners during the summer:
St. Louis, Mo.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Northern Kentucky
Northern Texas
Free air conditioners for disabled
In addition to nonprofits and programs like LIHEAP and WAP, which give priority to disabled persons who need air conditioning, organizations and agencies that support disabled persons may have resources for air conditioning assistance.
Here are some resources to check:
Local HHS: Your local Health and Human Services agency has resources for low-income households, disabled persons, and seniors (search: “HHS near me”)
City or county seat office: These offices often have programs that help residents in need and are funded by local governments (search: “city office near me” or “county office near me”)
Disability office: Local offices that cater to the needs of the disabled can be a helpful resource to connect you to programs that can provide free air conditioners (search: “disability office near me”)
Disability organizations: Disability support and advocacy centers are another resource for finding help to stay cool when it’s hot outside (search: “disability organizations” or “disability advocacy groups”)
Veterans Affairs: The VA offers disability housing grants to eligible veterans, and money can be used to purchase an air conditioning system through a Special Home Adaptation grant if you meet requirements (search: “VA office near me”)
Free air conditioners for seniors
LIHEAP and WAP offer free air conditioners to seniors in some states, but you can also contact the following places to ask about cooling programs:
Area agencies on aging: Also known as departments of aging, these centers are available at the state, city, and county level and have a variety of community resources for seniors (search: “Area agency on aging near me” or “department of aging near me”)
Senior centers: These are neighborhood gathering places for seniors that provide services, activities, and resources to help seniors live independently (search: “senior center near me”)
The Eldercare Locator is a great resource to find the services you need nearby.
Free AC unit donations
Some people are willing to give away free air conditioners if you are able to pick them up. To get a free air conditioner, check these sites/apps:
Buy Nothing Project: You can create a free account and search for free air conditioners or make a request for one and communicate with other users to get what you need from your neighbors
Craigslist: You can browse the free items section on Craigslist to find out if anyone in your area is giving away an air conditioner and use the built-in messaging tool to ask questions and arrange a meetup
Facebook Marketplace: If you have a Facebook profile, you can use this online marketplace where users buy, sell and give away items
Freecycle: Once you sign up for a free account, you can view free items in your towns, which are areas you choose that are close to where you live or travel
These Reddit users share their top picks for where to find free AC units:
To find cheap air conditioners, consider buying off-season (fall or winter) to get the best price. You can find new, cheap AC units when you shop at discount/overstock stores, small appliance shops, and scratch and dent/open box sales.
BackMarket
BackMarket sells refurbished, brand-name air conditioners for affordable prices. These units come with a one-year warranty, a 30-day return window, and free standard shipping. You also have the option to pay for your purchase over time through Affirm.
Keep in mind that you can get a lower price if you trade in used electronics.
Ebay
If you shop on ebay, you can choose from new and used air conditioning units, depending on the seller. Be sure to read the rating of the seller and customer reviews to make sure you’re getting a legit product. Look for options that offer a warranty and lots of details and pictures so you’ll feel confident about what you are buying.
Craigslist
With Craigslist, you don’t have the benefit of reading feedback from other people who have purchased from sellers on the site. To get the best experience, choose items that have multiple photos, clear explanations, and a seller who is willing to answer questions.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Some ReStores sell window air conditioners. The benefit of buying one from a ReStore is that locations often have high standards for donated appliances, requiring them to be gently used and in excellent condition.
Help with AC repair
According to Homeguide, the average repair for a window air conditioner costs between $6 and $250.12 Angi reports that repairing an HVAC system (central air) can range from $100 to $3,000.13
If you need your central air conditioning system repaired and you meet income requirements, programs like LIHEAP and WAP may offer financial help to get your unit repaired or replaced.
To get free or cheap repair help, reach out to:
Churches: Some churches have repair ministries staffed by volunteers and may offer free help to repair small appliances or require you to pay for parts
Trade schools: Schools that offer HVAC repair training may be open to repairing your window or central air conditioner so that their students can practice what they’re learning
Neighbors: It never hurts to ask around your community to find out if anyone works as a handyman or makes appliance repairs as a side hustle
You can use an app like Nextdoor to request AC repair help in your community. It’s free to create an account, and you’ll be instantly connected to all other app users in your area.
If you are creative, you can try creating a cooling unit for your home. The following YouTube video shows you how to cool off a room using a fan, a five-gallon bucket and a frozen gallon of water.
Find a cooling center
If you can’t get an air conditioner, or you want to save energy by not running it constantly, it’s a good idea to find cooling centers in your community. In regions where temperatures soar, it is common to find cooling centers in multiple areas.
For example:
The Salvation Army of North Texas offers heat relief services and cooling centers that activate when temperatures are above 100 degrees Fahrenheit14
New York City offers multiple resources to help residents stay cool through its Cool It! NYC initiative which directs people to cooling centers, shady areas in parks, water fountains, and spray caps for hydrants during heat emergencies15
To find cooling stations in your neighborhood, you can dial 211 on your landline or cellphone. United Way’s 211 is a free service to help you find help and resources in your community.
Bottom line: Find free resources
You may have to spend some time reaching out to different sources and applying for benefits, but it’s worth it to know you can get help to stay cool in your home during the summer or whenever temperatures soar.
Some of these programs, such as LIHEAP and WAP, are available at no cost if you meet certain income, age, or health requirements. If you don’t qualify for a free air conditioner based on income, age, or disability, you may be able to find a cheap unit through volunteer organizations, discount stores, and resellers.
Check out these other resources for low-income households:
“Pennsylvania launching pilot program to cool homes through LIHEAP program” July 14, 2023. KDKA News. https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/pennsylvania-pilot-program-cool-homes-liheap-program/
“Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)” Team Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. https://www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dcbs/dfs/pdb/Pages/liheap.aspx
“Applying for Heating and Cooling Assistance (HEAP)” New York State. https://www.ny.gov/services/apply-heating-and-cooling-assistance-heap
“Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)” Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. https://dhhs.ne.gov/pages/energy-assistance.aspx
“Weatherization Assistance Program Fact Sheet” August 9, 2023. U.S. Department of Energy Office of State and Community Energy Programs. https://www.energy.gov/scep/wap/articles/weatherization-assistance-program-fact-sheet
“‘A quality of life issue’: Number of Missourians without air conditioning soars amid record heat” August 24, 2023. KSDK News. https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/investigations/air-conditioning-st-louis-utility-assistance/63-25204eac-eacf-4d6f-856d-adf32b2efbdc
“The Salvation Army Receives 100 New A/C Units from Ameren Missouri and Cool Down St. Louis” June 15, 2022. The Salvation Army Greater St. Louis Metroplitan Area. https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/midland/news/the-salvation-army-receives-100-new-ac-units-from-ameren-missouri-and-cool-down-st-louis/
“Anonymous donor helps Salvation Army keep Atlanta’s seniors cool during summer” May 15, 2023. Atlanta News First. https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2023/05/15/anonymous-donor-helps-salvation-army-keep-atlantas-seniors-cool-during-summer/
“How much do window air conditioner repairs cost?” April 5, 2023. Homeguide. https://homeguide.com/costs/window-ac-unit-repair-cost
“How Much Do HVAC Repairs Cost? [2023 Data]” September 13, 2023. Angi. https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-hvac-repair-cost.htm
“Fighting High Temperatures with Heat Relief” The Salvation Army of North Texas. https://salvationarmyntx.org/north-texas/heat-relief/
“Cool It! NYC” New York City Department of Parks & Recreation. https://www.nycgovparks.org/about/health-and-safety-guide/cool-it-nyc
According to home services website HomeGuide,1 a new refrigerator costs between $600 and $2,300 on average, plus a $75 to $200 installation fee.
If you don’t have the money to shell out for a new refrigerator, stove, heater or other appliance, there are ways to get free appliances that are also reliable:
Top sources for truly free appliances (no catches)
Here are some sources to help you get a free household appliance fast:
Buy Nothing Project
Buy Nothing offers a community-based platform to help you find free stuff from your neighbors. You can join for free and then choose a community based on where you live.
To find a free appliance:
Create a free profile on Buynothingproject.org
Create a post to ask for the item you want
Browse all active gifts in your community to see if any match your needs
You’ll communicate directly with the people offering the item if they reach out to you. If they decide to choose you as the recipient, you'll work with them to make arrangements to pick up the appliance or have it delivered.
Facebook groups
While they might not be officially affiliated with the Buy Nothing Project, you may also be able to find a Facebook page for your community where people post and request free items. Search Facebook for “buy nothing groups” or “buy/sell/trade.”
Facebook Marketplace
If you have a Facebook account, you can access Facebook Marketplace. Sometimes people post free appliances on Facebook Marketplace, especially when they're moving and just want to get rid of stuff.
To find a free stove, free oven or other free appliance on Marketplace:
Log into or create a free Facebook account
Click on the Facebook Marketplace icon (it looks like a little shop with an awning)
Click on the Free Stuff category and browse
Use the search field to type in what you are looking for, such as: free stove
To communicate with people offering free items, you’ll use the Facebook Messenger app and arrange a pickup/dropoff.
Marketplace is also a good place to find free furniture.
Craigslist
Craigslist is a popular choice for finding free stuff. It’s an online classifieds website where you can connect with people in your town to get free appliances and more.
To find a free appliance:
Create a free profile on Craigslist
Click on the free or appliances category under the for sale section
Use the search box to search for a washer, dryer, refrigerator or other appliance
Click on the item you want and use the reply button to communicate
You can use built-in messaging on Craigslist to chat about the details of the free items and plan meetups to look at the items and pick them up. Always use caution when arranging a meetup, and bring someone with you if possible.
Freecycle is a web-based community that draws people from all over who want to recycle and reuse household goods and unwanted items to cut down on waste in landfills. It’s free to register for an account, or you can use your Facebook login to get started.
To find a free space heater or other free appliance:
Sign in to Freecycle or register for free
Choose your hometown group (nearest to your home) and any other towns that are easy for you to get to
Make a post requesting an appliance or browse what others have already offered by using the search feature
You can search just in your hometown or in all of your chosen towns. Freecycle has a built-in online messaging system that you can use to chat with the owner and make arrangements to get the item to your home or pick it up.
Freebie Alerts app
The Freebie Alerts app, available on the App Store and Google Play, sends you a notification every time your neighbors are giving away free stuff, including appliances of all sizes.
The app monitors:
Facebook Marketplace
Nextdoor
OfferUp
TrashNothing
You can choose to receive alerts from all or some of these sources of free stuff.
If you want specific appliances, you can use the whitelist feature to notify you of offers with certain keywords. When you want an item, just tap on it in the app to communicate with the person giving it away. You can also post items you would like to give away.
Let your friends and family know what you're looking for. They might be ready to upgrade or no longer have a need for an item and would be happy to let you have it free of charge. You never know until you ask.
On the r/povertyfinance subreddit, Reddit users shared their top places to get free appliances:
Ways low-income families can get cash to buy appliances
Some programs and nonprofit organizations offer financial help to replace old appliances, or you can apply for government assistance to pay for new appliances:
Grants for appliance assistance
While we did not find grants specifically for appliance purchases, if you meet income requirements for your household, you can apply for grants to help you purchase one.
For example, the Modest Needs organization offers self-sufficiency grants to cover monthly bills you can no longer pay because of financial hardship or unexpected or emergency expenses (such as your stove breaking, keeping you from preparing meals for your family).
You can also search for “nonprofits near me” to locate community organizations that help low-income families with grants and other financial assistance.
As part of the Inflation Reduction Act,2 households can access a tax credit to cover up to 30% of the cost for qualifying efficiency improvements, up to:
$1,200 in credit for adding insulation or installing efficient windows and doors
$2,000 for electric heat pumps that provide super-efficient heating and cooling
$150 for a home energy audit conducted by an inspector
State programs will also offer rebates to help you replace old appliances with more energy-efficient models and make energy-efficient upgrades to your home.
The program may be in the form of a voucher or grant and is administered at the state level through September 2031.2
Households are eligible for rebates of up to $4,000, while low-income households could receive up to $8,000 for home efficiency. Maximum payouts may vary by state and type of appliance.
As an example, low-income Vermont residents may be eligible for a voucher for up to $1,200 to purchase a new appliance such as a refrigerator or washing machine.3
Rebates covering up to 100% of the installation cost are available to low- and moderate-income households for appliances like:
Heat pumps
Water heaters
Clothes dryers
Since this is a new program, states and tribal lands are still in the process of applying for and receiving funding. To find the latest on what’s available in your state, contact your state energy office.
LIHEAP
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program that operates at the state level. It provides help to low-income households by:
Providing financial assistance with heating bills
Preventing energy shut offs or getting services reconnected
Increasing the energy efficiency of a home
Repairing or replacing heating equipment
Under this program, you may be able to get your furnace repaired or replaced at no cost to you. LIHEAP services also include weatherization support, which can help with replacing appliances that are not energy efficient.
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is another federal program that benefits low-income households in each state. The program replaces old refrigerators with models that run more efficiently and save money on energy use.
To find free appliances for local delivery or pickup, try searching online for “free appliances near me” or do a search for a specific appliance.
You can also be specific about the city or county you live in. So, try searches like: “free washer and dryer near Charlotte” or “free electric stove near Los Angeles County.”
Ideas to get free appliances delivered
Getting that free or affordable appliance is just half the battle. How do you get that giant fridge or stove home?!
Some places that offer free appliances might be able to deliver them to your home for free. If you have to pick them up, you can seek out free or low-cost transportation options from:
Your network: Ask family, friends, co-workers, social club members, or anyone else with a truck for help getting the appliance home
Churches and nonprofits: Check with churches, religious organizations, and local nonprofit organizations in your community to find out if they offer free moving help or can provide financial assistance to rent a truck. Many can also help with housing and security deposits.
Rent a truck: Look for an affordable truck rental on a site like KAYAK, which compares rates from multiple vehicle rental businesses or looks for places that rent by the hour like U-Haul and Home Depot (Home Depot’s rentals start at $19 for 75 minutes, plus fees)
If you've exhausted all efforts to find free appliances or financial help to buy used appliances, check out this list of sources where you can find cheap and/or used appliances:
Habitat ReStore: Run by the charity Habitat for Humanity, this discount store sells home appliances for a discounted price, but it is not available in all states
Salvation Army: You can find affordable, used, small appliances like microwaves and air conditioners through some Salvation Army branches
Small appliance stores: Look for neighborhood appliance stores that can offer lower pricing on appliances than large home improvement stores and be sure to ask about display models, open box, and scratch and dent models offered at a steep discount
Free appliances quickly lose value when they no longer work. That’s why it’s important to choose an appliance that will last and that doesn’t require extensive repairs.
Here are some questions to ask when you’re choosing a used appliance:
Is it a reliable brand? Sources like Consumer Reports and the Yale Reliability Report4 can give you an idea of what brands are least likely to have service issues and have a good track record of performance
What is the model? You can look up the model online on sites like Home Depot and Best Buy to read customer reviews and get answers to common questions
Is it ENERGY STAR-rated? The federal government gives this rating to products that are energy efficient (which saves you money on your electric bill), eco-friendly, and of good quality5
Does it come with a warranty? I inherited an old yellow refrigerator when I moved into my old apartment, which I affectionately called fridge-osaur. When it broke, I found out it was still under warranty from a local mom-and-pop appliance shop. One $25 co-pay later, the tech had it working. Ask the person or organization giving away the appliance about any existing warranties and whether the free refrigerator, stove, or dishwasher has had problems working in the past.
Does your local repair shop service the brand? Not all appliance repair shops service all appliance brands, so find out if yours can be fixed if it stops working
How old is the appliance? While older appliances don’t have modern features, they are often built to last because they don’t have a lot of fancy parts or built-in electronics that can fail
Have you seen the appliance? Don’t agree to take an item sight unseen — it is important to inspect the appliance in person (and bring someone with you who knows about appliances if you are able)
Do you know the source? If you know and trust the person or organization offering the appliance, you’re more likely to get a reliable item and can ask questions to get straight answers
According to Best Solution Appliance Repair from Canada, even free appliances can have hidden issues. Checking critical components like seals, compressors, and water lines early can prevent costly breakdowns and extend the life of washers, fridges, and ovens.
Yale Appliance, founded in 1923, has an appliance showroom in Boston, Mass., and services the brands it sells. Every year, the business publishes an appliance reliability report based on its appliance sales and service calls.
In the following video, CEO Steve Sheinkopf shares the results about 10 appliance brands, like GE and Maytag, based on Yale’s sales data and 39,151 service calls:
“How much does a refrigerator cost?” April 17, 2023. HomeGuide https://homeguide.com/costs/refrigerator-cost
“Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates.” Office of State and Community Energy Programs. https://www.energy.gov/scep/home-electrification-and-appliance-rebates
“Income-eligible Vermonters can get a free home appliance to save money and energy.” May 24, 2023. Efficiency Vermont https://www.efficiencyvermont.com/news-blog/news/income-eligible-vermonters-can-get-a-free-home-appliance-to-save-money-and-energy
“The Most Reliable Appliance Brands (2023 Update)” January 25, 2023. Yale Appliance https://blog.yaleappliance.com/the-least-serviced-most-reliable-appliance-brands
“What Makes a Product ENERGY STAR?” ENERGY STAR https://www.energystar.gov/products/what_makes_product_energy_star
