Austin, Texas is offering cash rebates of up to $1,300 to residents who buy new electric bikes, scooters, mopeds, or motorcycles under a program run by Austin Energy, the city’s public electric utility.
The E-Ride Rebate program aims to cut pollution from cars and lower transportation costs. Purchases must be made at dealerships approved by Austin Energy, and applicants must be active Austin Energy customers.
How much can you get?
The rebate amount depends on the type of customer. Low-income residents enrolled in Austin Energy’s Customer Assistance Program, which covers households that qualify by income or receive benefits such as Medicaid or SNAP, can receive up to $1,300 per vehicle.
Standard residential customers are eligible for up to $600 per vehicle, with the exact amount based on the purchase price and vehicle category. Businesses and organizations purchasing fleets of five to 25 vehicles can receive up to $800 per unit.
Residential customers may submit up to three rebate claims per fiscal year, allowing multiple household members to receive the benefit. The fleet cap does not apply the same individual limit.
How to apply
Buyers must submit an online application within 60 days of purchase. The application requires a copy of the fully paid invoice showing the total vehicle cost and a manufacturer specification sheet.
Organizations applying for a nonprofit fleet exemption must also provide proof of tax-exempt status.
Approved applicants receive a rebate check by mail six to eight weeks after approval. The check is issued to the name on the Austin Energy electricity account.
Tips for applicants
Austin Energy advises applicants to gather all required documents before starting the online form, because active sessions expire after one hour of inactivity and progress cannot be saved. Documents can be uploaded as PDF, Word, JPEG, or ZIP files.
Funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, so a rebate is not guaranteed until Austin Energy approves the application. Applicants can check rebate status using their confirmation number and city utility account number, or contact Austin Energy by email with questions about their application.
