The City of Austin offers several freebies, rebates and loans to residents. This is your one-stop-shop to learn what's available. Though we strive to be accurate, offers may expire and often have eligibility conditions. Visit the links to verify the offer and your eligibility. Offers were updated December 2023.
See offers by department below.
Car seats and safety checks
Bring in your car seat to be inspected to ensure it's the right type and properly installed in your vehicle.
Hands-only CPR Training
Free hands-on classes to schools, businesses, community groups, clubs, etc., to learn hands-only CPR.
Safe Baby Academy
This free class teaches child passenger safety, safe sleep and infant CPR and choking awareness.
Residential Programs and Rebates
Though not a City of Austin department, many Austin residents buy natural gas from Texas Gas Service, which offers many rebates for natural gas vehicles, furnaces, water heaters and dryers.
Water Conservation
Rebates and freebies for saving water at home: soil moisture meters, showerheads and faucet aerators, pool covers, rainwater harvesting and more.
Free and Low-Cost Pet Services
Learn about free/ low-cost spay and neuter surgery for dogs and cats, rabies clinics, microchipping and ID tags.
Leaving a dog alone on a chain or tether is prohibited (see Austin City Code Section 3-4-2). To assist with compliance, Animal Protection has fencing and doghouse assistance programs. Call the Tethering Officer at 512-978-0519 for more information or use the online forms to apply:
Rebates and Incentives
Check out Austin Energy's list of rebates and loans for all things energy: air conditioning, thermostats, solar panels, heat pump water heaters, pool pumps and more.
Free Trees: TreeFolks' NeighborWoods
Request a yard evaluation to see if you are eligible to get a free tree for your property. This program is sponsored by Austin Energy in partnership with Austin's Urban Forestry Program.
Plug-In Austin – Electric Vehicles
Learn about rebates for buying an in-home charging station for your electric vehicle, as well as rebates for purchasing an electric-powered motorcycle, scooter, moped, bike or Segway.
Small Business Outreach Program
Small Businesses Save Big with Bonus Rebates and Big Discounts.
Free Smoke Alarms
The Austin Fire Department envisions a smoke alarm in every home. Call the Smoke Alarm Hotline to schedule free installation and a free home hazards assessment: 512-974-0299
Financial Aid for Youth Programs
Children who are eligible for free or reduced lunch at school can receive a 50% discount on youth activities, including summer camps and afterschool programs.
Summer Playgrounds Program
A free drop-in program for children to participate in fun, supervised, outdoor activities during the summer months. Summer Playgrounds staff provide quality recreational experiences that promote healthy living, character building, and teamwork through collaborative and active play.
Totally Cool, Totally Art
This free afterschool program for teens aged 12-18 encourages self-expression through a variety of artistic mediums. TCTA is built to help give teens new experiences, build respect and trust and improve their skills in communication, teamwork and arts appreciation.
Austin Re-Blend – free paint for homes
Trash cart downsizing
Your monthly trash bill is calculated based on the size of your trash cart. Request a free smaller trash cart and lower your monthly City of Austin utility bill.
Resources for Homeowners
The City of Austin has several programs for homeowners needing affordability and renovation assistance to stay in their homes and to avoid foreclosure.
Homebuyer Assistance
Learn about programs that help with buying a home, including free homebuying counseling classes and down payment assistance.
Renter Assistance
Look here for help paying rent or utilities or finding a reasonably priced apartment in Austin.