I. What Is the DHS Car Voucher Program?
The program provides financial assistance to qualifying individuals and families so they can obtain reliable vehicles. It helps to:
- ✅ Increase access to jobs and consistent income
- ✅ Ensure families can attend healthcare appointments
- ✅ Support students and parents in reaching schools
Mission: To empower low-income households by bridging the gap between limited finances and reliable transportation.
II. Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the Michigan DHS Car Voucher Program in 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:
✅ Eligibility Checklist
- Residency: Live in Michigan (proof required)
- Income: Meet DHS low-income guidelines
- Driver’s License: Hold a valid license to operate a vehicle
- Insurance: Carry active auto insurance coverage
- Demonstrated Need: Show a genuine need for a vehicle (work, school, or medical)
📌 Tip: Income thresholds can vary by county. Confirm details with your local office via the MDHHS official site.
III. Preparing Documentation
Strong documentation is key to success. Missing or outdated paperwork is the top reason applications get delayed.
📂 Required Documents
- Proof of income → pay stubs, tax returns, benefit award letters
- Proof of residency → utility bill, lease, or Michigan ID with current address
- Driver’s license + proof of insurance
- Proof of need (if applicable) → employer letter, school enrollment papers, or doctor’s note
🗂️ Organization Tips
- Use a checklist to ensure nothing is missing
- Keep originals safe and submit copies
- Verify all documents are current and legible
- Store them in separate folders (income, residency, insurance, etc.)
IV. Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Get the Application Form → apply online via MI Bridges or pick up forms at your local office
- Read Instructions Carefully → understand requirements before filling out
- Fill in Personal Information → full name, contact details, SSN
- Attach Required Documents → income, residency, insurance, proof of need
- Review for Accuracy → avoid missing fields or mismatched details
- Submit Application → in-person or by mail as your office specifies
- Keep Copies & Note Date → record submission date for follow-up
📌 Pro Tip: Ask for a receipt or submission confirmation to protect yourself if delays occur.
V. Official MDHHS/DHS Resources
Always verify with official sources before submitting:
- MDHHS Main Website – statewide program updates
- MI Bridges Online Portal – apply, upload docs, track status
- Local County Offices – find the nearest office
VI. After You Apply
- Caseworker Review → DHS verifies eligibility and documents
- Verification → income, residency, and insurance are confirmed
- Follow-Up → respond quickly to requests for info
- Processing Time → typically 6–8 weeks (longer in larger counties)
- Decision Letter → approval or denial arrives by mail/portal
❌ If Denied
- Review your denial letter carefully
- Fix issues (update expired docs, add employer/doctor letter)
- Reapply once corrected via MI Bridges
- Appeal if you believe it was an error
VII. Timelines, Denials & Reapplications
⏳ How Long Does It Take?
Most applications take 6–8 weeks. Timelines vary by county workload (e.g., Wayne & Oakland may be slower), document completeness, and verification needs.
❌ Common Reasons for Denial
- Missing or expired documents
- Incorrect income reporting
- Not demonstrating a clear “need” (work/school/medical)
- Insurance not valid at time of application
🛠️ What To Do If Rejected
- Read the denial notice (reason is listed)
- Correct the issue (update license, add proof, etc.)
- Reapply with complete documentation
- Appeal via MI Bridges if you believe it’s an error
📍 Local Office Tips
Each county may process applications differently (some offices have waitlists). Confirm timelines with your local office.
VIII. Approval & Using Your Voucher
If approved, you’ll receive an official car voucher certificate. Next steps:
- Research Vehicles → pick safe, reliable, fuel-efficient options
- Visit Participating Dealerships → only approved dealers accept vouchers
- Present Voucher → dealer applies value toward purchase
- Finalize Purchase → complete paperwork/financing if needed
- Cover Extra Costs → taxes, registration, insurance are your responsibility
🚘 Example Dealerships (verify locally)
- Johnson Motors
- Greenway Auto Group
- Maplewood Cars Inc.
- Riverside Auto Mall
IX. Program Limitations & Alternatives
The program has limited funding and demand may exceed supply.
If You’re Not Approved
- Reapply if your situation changes
- Consider credit union car loans or low-interest options
- Check local nonprofits, churches, and charities for transportation help
- Stay persistent — many succeed after multiple attempts
X. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a DHS Car Voucher?
A DHS car voucher is financial assistance from the Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS) to help eligible residents buy or repair a vehicle. The goal is to remove transportation barriers for work, school, and healthcare.
How do I apply for a DHS car voucher?
You can apply online through the MI Bridges portal or by visiting your local DHS office. You’ll need to provide income proof, residency proof, driver’s license, insurance, and documentation of need.
Who qualifies for a DHS car voucher?
Applicants must be Michigan residents, meet DHS low-income guidelines, hold a valid driver’s license, have active auto insurance, and show a clear need for transportation (job, school, or medical reasons).
What documents are required for the application?
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, benefit letters)
- Proof of residency (utility bill, lease, Michigan ID)
- Driver’s license and proof of insurance
- Proof of need (employer letter, school enrollment, medical note if applicable)
How long does the DHS voucher application take?
Processing typically takes 6–8 weeks. Larger counties may take longer depending on workload and completeness of your documentation.
Why was my DHS voucher application denied?
Common reasons include missing or expired documents, incorrect income reporting, lack of proof of need, or no valid insurance at the time of application. The denial letter will state the reason.
Can I reapply if I’m denied?
Yes. You can reapply after correcting the issues listed in your denial letter. If you believe the denial was unfair, you may also file an appeal through MI Bridges.
Are voucher rules the same in every Michigan county?
Core requirements (income, residency, license, insurance) are statewide, but processing times and internal procedures vary by county. Always confirm with your local office.
Does the voucher cover the entire car cost?
No. The voucher usually covers only part of the vehicle cost. You’ll still be responsible for taxes, registration fees, insurance, and any remaining balance.
Can DHS vouchers be used for car repairs?
Some county programs allow vouchers or related aid to cover essential car repairs if they are necessary to maintain reliable transportation. Always ask your local DHS office about repair eligibility.
Do I need insurance before applying?
Yes. Active auto insurance is required when applying and must remain valid for voucher approval and use.
What if I don’t have a driver’s license?
You must have a valid driver’s license to qualify. If you don’t, consider applying once you obtain one, or check if household members with a license may apply.
How do I find my local DHS office?
Visit the MDHHS County Offices directory to locate the office nearest to you.
What happens after I’m approved?
You’ll receive a voucher certificate. You can then visit participating dealerships, present the voucher, and apply its value toward a qualifying vehicle. You’re still responsible for extra costs like taxes and insurance.
What are alternatives if I’m not approved?
If you’re not approved, explore:
- Credit union loans or low-interest financing
- Local nonprofits and community charities
- Reapplying after updating documents
