Quick answer
Sources of free stoves for low-income families include: state Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR), which can pay up to $840 toward an electric or induction stove for income-qualified households where the state program is open; utility programs and some weatherization agencies that replace unsafe gas appliances; furniture banks and Habitat for Humanity ReStores for free or low-cost used stoves; and churches, the Salvation Army, and St. Vincent de Paul. If you rent, your landlord usually must repair or replace a stove that came with the unit. Dial 211 for local programs. Never use a grill or oven to heat your home.
Key facts
- HEAR rebates: up to $840 for an electric or induction stove where a state program is open.
- Renters: landlord-provided appliances are usually the landlord’s responsibility.
- Furniture banks and ReStores: free or low-cost used appliances.
- Utility programs: some replace unsafe gas stoves or offer rebates.
- Safety: have a gas stove installed by a licensed technician.
Table of contents
- Where can I get free stoves for low-income families?
- How electrification rebates work
- Who replaces the stove if you rent
- Charities that give stoves
- Cooking safely without a stove
- Checking a used stove
- Key terms explained
- Who to contact
- What a basic stove costs if you buy one
- Mistakes to avoid
- Extra help for seniors and people with disabilities
- Which stove costs less to run?
- What to tell a charity when you ask
- Getting a donated stove home
- Your step-by-step plan for this week
- Related guides
- Frequently asked questions
Where can I get free stoves for low-income families?
| Source | What they offer |
|---|---|
| State HEAR program | Rebate up to $840 toward an electric or induction stove |
| Utility companies | Rebates, safety replacements, low-income appliance programs |
| Weatherization agencies | Sometimes replace unsafe gas appliances during weatherization |
| Furniture banks | Free used appliances by referral |
| Habitat for Humanity ReStore | Low-cost donated appliances |
| Churches and charities | Donated stoves or help paying for one |
How electrification rebates work
The federal Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates program, run by states with Department of Energy funding, offers point-of-sale rebates to income-qualified households for electric appliances, including up to $840 for an electric or induction cooktop, range, or oven. Households under 80% of area median income can get the full rebate, and those between 80% and 150% can get half. Not every state has opened its program, and some have limited funds. Check your state energy office or the DOE Home Energy Rebates page.
Who replaces the stove if you rent
If the stove came with your rental, most state laws and leases make the landlord responsible for repairing or replacing it. Tell the landlord in writing, keep a copy, and give reasonable time. If repairs are not made, contact local code enforcement or a tenant rights group. Public housing and Section 8 units must meet HUD standards, which include a working cooking appliance.
Charities that give stoves
Furniture banks give free used appliances to families referred by social service agencies, especially people leaving shelters. The Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul sometimes provide appliances or vouchers. Habitat for Humanity ReStores sell donated appliances at low prices. Churches occasionally collect stoves for families in need. See our free appliances guide.
Cooking safely without a stove
- Use a microwave, slow cooker, electric skillet, or hot plate indoors, following the instructions.
- Never use a grill, camp stove, or generator indoors because of carbon monoxide.
- Do not use an oven to heat your home.
- Keep a working smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm.
Checking a used stove
- Check for recalls at CPSC.gov.
- Make sure all burners and the oven heat properly.
- Check that the anti-tip bracket is installed; tip-overs injure children.
- Have gas stoves connected by a licensed technician and checked for leaks.
- Check your outlet and wiring for electric ranges, which need a 240-volt circuit.
Key terms explained
- HEAR
- Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates, a federally funded state program.
- Induction
- An electric cooktop that heats pots directly and uses less energy.
- Anti-tip bracket
- A small part that keeps a range from tipping when the door is pulled.
Who to contact
| Who | How to reach them | Ask for |
|---|---|---|
| State energy office | State website | HEAR stove rebate |
| Your utility | Number on your bill | Appliance programs and rebates |
| 211 | Dial 211 | Furniture banks and charities |
| Landlord | In writing | Repair or replacement |
What a basic stove costs if you buy one
A basic new electric coil range often costs a few hundred dollars, and used stoves at ReStores or resale shops cost less. Induction ranges cost more but use less energy, which is where rebates help. Ask about delivery and haul-away fees, installation, and whether the stove needs a new outlet or gas line connection, which can add to the cost.
Mistakes to avoid
- Buying a range that does not match your outlet or gas hookup.
- Skipping the anti-tip bracket.
- Signing high-interest rent-to-own appliance contracts.
Extra help for seniors and people with disabilities
Area Agencies on Aging and centers for independent living sometimes help with appliances that affect safety, and some utility programs prioritize older adults. People who cannot safely use a stove may qualify for Meals on Wheels or home care that includes meal preparation through Medicaid waivers. See our Meals on Wheels guide.
Which stove costs less to run?
Induction cooktops use energy most efficiently, followed by standard electric and then gas, though costs depend on local rates. Using lids, matching pot size to the burner, and cooking several meals at once also lowers energy bills.
What to tell a charity when you ask
Say whether you need gas or electric, your kitchen space, and whether you rent or own. Mention children or medical needs.
Getting a donated stove home
Ask the charity about delivery, borrow a truck with a friend, or ask a church men’s group for help. Many ReStores deliver for a fee.
Your step-by-step plan for this week
- Renting? Ask your landlord in writing to repair or replace the stove.
- Check your state’s HEAR program for stove rebates.
- Call your utility about appliance programs.
- Dial 211 for furniture banks and charities.
- Cook safely with small appliances until you have a stove.
Watch out: door-to-door sellers promising “free government stoves” often sign people up for costly financing. Real rebates are applied at purchase or through your state program.
Help is free. State energy offices, utilities, furniture banks, and 211 never charge to apply.
For more specifics, see our guides on free refrigerators for low-income families and churches that help with appliances.
Related guides
- Free washer and dryer for low-income families
- HVAC assistance for seniors
- Utility relief programs
- Free blankets for low-income families
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get free stoves for low-income families?
Free stoves for low-income families come from state HEAR rebates, utility programs, furniture banks, Habitat for Humanity ReStores, churches, and charities.
Is there a government rebate for a new stove?
Where your state’s HEAR program is open, income-qualified households can get up to $840 toward an electric or induction stove.
Does my landlord have to replace a broken stove?
Usually, if the stove came with the unit. Notify your landlord in writing and keep a copy.
Can I get a free stove from a furniture bank?
Many furniture banks give used appliances to families referred by social service agencies. Dial 211.
How can I cook without a stove?
Use a microwave, slow cooker, or electric skillet indoors. Never use a grill or camp stove inside.
Sources
Facts on this page were checked against these sources on October 25, 2026. If a source and this page ever disagree, follow the source.
This guide is general information. Rebate availability varies by state. National Relief Program is an independent website, not a government agency or retailer.
Before you apply: program rules, amounts, and deadlines change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program administrator. Applying for government benefits is free.
National Relief Program is an independent guide, not a government agency. Spotted an error? Email support@nationalreliefprogram.org.
