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Everything That You Need to Know About E-Bike Rebates
Find out everything you need to know about e-bike rebates in your state so you can save on the cost of a new bike.
Understanding E-Bike Rebates
Electronic bikes, or e-bikes, have become increasingly popular over the past few years due to their environmental and health benefits. However, they can be costly, especially for low-income individuals. Fortunately, many states have introduced e-bike rebate programs and tax incentives to make e-bikes more accessible. Federal e-bike tax incentives, such as the E-Bike Act, have also been proposed but never passed.
While most rebate programs offer anything from a few hundred dollars up to $1,200 or $1,500, there are exceptional cases like the San Francisco Bay Area program that can provide rebates up to $7,500 under specific conditions, such as trading in an older, gas-powered vehicle. This is different from most of the rebate programs listed below as it is also intended to reduce the number of gas-powered vehicles on the road. If you want to purchase an e-bike, keep reading to find out what incentives you may be eligible for.
Benefits of Buying an E-Bike
E-bikes offer a wide range of benefits for your health, your wallet, and the planet. See why e-bikes can be a wise choice. Learn more about ebikes and emerging micromobility options ↗
Environmental Benefits
Because they are powered by electricity, e-bikes don't produce carbon emissions. This can help lower your carbon footprint.
Health Benefits
Regular e-bike usage can increase cardiovascular health by up to 20%. This can help reduce your risk of heart disease. Learn more about the health benefits of riding an electric bike ↗
Cost Benefits
E-bikes are also significantly more affordable than cars, requiring no gas and lower repair costs. This can make transportation more accessible to low-income individuals. Learn more about the cost of an electric bicycle ↗
Commuting Benefits
E-bikes can also contribute to shorter commute times, allowing you to reach your destination up to 50% faster during rush hour. Learn why ebikes are the fastest way to get around urban areas ↗
Mobility Benefits
E-bikes make cycling accessible to a broader demographic, including older adults and those with physical limitations, leading to a 30% increase in cycling frequency among new e-bike riders.
Fun Fact
Did you know that e-bikes can significantly improve mobility for older individuals? Up to 67% of e-bike users over 55 report more frequent bike usage and taking longer trips over conventional bikes. E-bikes also lead to a 30% increase in bike usage for seniors and individuals with limited mobility.
Learn why ebikes are the fastest way to get around urban areas ↗
E-Bike Rebates vs. Tax Credits
A rebate is typically a partial refund provided at the time of purchase, directly reducing the cost of the e-bike and making it more affordable upfront. However, some programs, like Colorado's, may offer what functions as a point-of-sale discount, with the bike shop reimbursed later, often during the next tax season. On the other hand, a tax credit reduces the amount of taxes owed, providing savings when filing annual tax returns. Several states offer electronic bike tax credits instead of rebates.
Federal E-Bike Rebates
Currently, the federal government does not offer an e-bike rebate or tax credit program. While the E-BIKE Act has been proposed to provide a tax credit worth 30% of the cost of a new e-bike, up to $1,500, it has not been passed into law. Therefore, this credit is not available at this time.
State E-Bike Rebates
Many states offer e-bike rebates. Some are only for individuals who meet specific income requirements, while others are open to everyone. These requirements may be subject to change. See what your state might offer.
Arizona
The State of Arizona offers up to $300 towards the price of an e-bike. This program is open to all residents.
Local E-Bike Tax Credits and Incentives
Local towns and municipalities may also offer e-bike rebates and incentive programs, which may be subject to change. Keep reading to learn more.
Ossining, New York
Located in Westchester County, Ossining, NY, is currently experimenting with a state-funded program called Project Mover. This program is designed to make e-bikes more accessible to every resident.
Go here for more information on Project MOVER ↗
Go here for more information on Project MOVER EBOP ↗
Columbus, Ohio
The City of Columbus, in partnership with Smart Columbus, is offering qualifying residents rebates on e-bike purchases from qualifying retailers worth between $500 and $1,200. This needs-based program is meant to help reduce traffic in the city.
Go here for more information on Columbus’ Ebike Program ↗
Go here for more information on Project MOVER EBOP ↗
Atlanta, Georgia
The city of Atlanta and the Atlanta Regional Commission have partnered to provide rebates for between 800 to 1000 residents. These e-bike rebates will be between $500 and $2,000 and are reserved for people earning less than 80% of Atlanta's median income.
Denver, Colorado
The City of Denver also has a needs-based e-bike rebate program that provides between $300 and $1,200 towards the purchase of an e-bike, with an additional $200 offered for the purchase of an e-cargo bike. These are just some of the electric bike rebate programs available. Check with your town or city to determine if they can offer additional assistance.
Go here for more information on Project MOVER ↗
Go here for more information on Project MOVER EBOP ↗
E-Bike Rebates in Canada
Several provinces in Canada also offer e-bike rebates. In British Columbia, residents may be eligible to receive between $350 and $1,400 on an e-bike valued at $2,000 or more. This program is run by SCRAPE-IT, a non-profit organization that runs many sustainability initiatives in Canada.
Go here for more information on British Columbia’s Program ↗
Go here to learn about British Columbia’s SCRAP-IT Program ↗
What You Will Need to Qualify for an E-Bike Rebate
Requirements vary by state and municipality, but typically, to qualify for an e-bike rebate, you will need to provide the following:
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Proof of residency
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Proof of income
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Proof of purchase
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Bike type and model
Be sure to check with your local government to determine eligibility.
How Electronic Bike Rebates Work
Step 1
Fill Out an Application
To determine eligibility, you may need to complete a pre-screening application and provide information about your income, place of residence, and more.
Step 2
Attend a Battery Safety and Safe Riding Program
If you are approved, some states may require you to participate in a battery safety training program to ensure you know how to maintain your e-bike's battery. Additionally, you may be asked to attend a safe riding event to promote overall safety and proper e-bike usage.
Step 3
Get Approved
Once approved, you will be notified of participating local vendors where you can purchase your e-bike. You may receive a point-of-sale rebate for your new e-bike. You will be responsible for covering the remaining cost.
NEVER
Use generic batteries or chargers unless it is specifically approved for your product.
Plug into a power strip or overload an outlet.
Overcharge or leave a battery charging overnight.
Charge a battery or device under your pillow, on your bed or near a couch.
Leave e-bikes or e-scooters unattended while charging.
Block your primary way in or out of a room/space with e-bikes, e-scooters, wheelchairs, etc.
Place batteries in trash or recycling bins. It is ILLEGAL
Use chargers that were not sold with the battery. it can be dangerous.
ALWAYS
Purchase and use devices certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (NRTL). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for:
Charging and storage.
Using the correct battery, cord, and power adapter.
Plugging directly into a wall electrical outlet for charging.
Keeping batteries and devices at room temperature.
Storing and/or charging batteries away from anything flammable.
Keeping away from heat sources.
New York City Only: bring batteries to a local recycling center. Visit www.nyc.gov/batteries ↗ for more information
Safety Tips and Precautions
Use approved batteries and chargers – only use devices that have a reputable testing agency mark such as UL. Use the charger that was made specifically for your device.
Keep away from heat – keep batteries and devices at room temperature. Keep away from direct sunlight and any heat sources such as a radiator.
No overnight charging – do not leave devices unattended while charging or charge them overnight.
Make sure you can get out – never block your primary way in or out of a room or apartment.
Call 911 for battery fires – water and fire extinguishers do not work on lithium-ion batteries fires. If a battery overheats or you notice an odor, change in shape/color, leaking, or odd noises, stop using it immediately. If safe to do so, move the device away from anything that can catch fire and call 911.
For more information read FDNY's Battery Safety Resource ↗
1 Disclaimer: These safety tips are general recommendations. Please consult your local, state, and federal regulations before purchasing or using e-bike batteries to ensure compliance with all applicable laws.
Find Out if You Qualify for an E-Bike Rebate in Your Area
E-bikes offer many benefits, especially for those living with limited mobility. If you want to purchase an e-bike, check out all the rebates you may qualify for or learn more about Shared Mobility Inc.'s mobility initiatives.
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