How to Get government money to Pay up to $500.00 Towards The Repair of Your Vehicle If It Fails the California Smog test

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By eclectic-one
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Get government money to Pay up to $500.00 Towards The Repair of Your Vehicle If It Fails the California Smog test

California now demands that our cars and trucks meet pretty strict and specific emissions standards. Besides the expense and inconvenience of getting the test done, we may be faced with greater expenses and decisions should our vehicle fail. One California smog control expert (Bill at Arroyo Smog Check/Test Only Center) told me that the average repair runs between $400.00 and $600.00, and that when some of these return for testing after repairs have been made, they will fail again. Turns out there is a government program called C.A.P.(s) (consumer assistance program) That will pay up to $500.00 toward the repair or $1000.00 to purchase some vehicles that fail the California smog test. Not only this, but when the repair center finishes, it issues the certificate so you will not have to return to the smog test center for a retest!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Should your vehicle fail the smog test:
if your vehicle fails it could cost you dearly as noted above. If however the state has labeled your vehicle as "test only" you automatically qualify for the program. As a "test only" applicant your copay is capped at $100.00 (if you qualify as low income it's only $20.00). You will also be required to pay for your smog certificate ($8.25 as of this writing).
Step 2

If the cost of repairs exceeds what CAP will pay:
-you may continue with the repair process and pay the additional repair cost.
-you may be eligible for a one time repair cost waiver.
-you may be eligible for the CAP's vehicle retirement program.
Step 3

Applying to the program:
An application can be downloaded from BAR CAP's web site (see link below). Alternatively you can call BAR CAP Monday through Friday 8AM to 4:50PM PST at: (866)272-9642 and request that the application be mailed to you. Fill out the application and mail it in. In a short while you will receive a response letter. Follow the instructions you receive. Don't delay as financial assistance is only available based upon remaining funds.

Tips & Warnings

Bill at Arroyo Smog Check/Test Only Center knows the CAP's program inside and out, and truly wants to help his customers. For this reason, if you need a smog check and are remotely close to his shop (7021 N Figueroa St Los Angeles, CA 90042) I would encourage you to see him. Should your car fail he will help you apply to the program just as he has already referred nearly 1200 others.
If you are not in the area You can find more information about CAP's through Bill's web page (link bellow)
Financial assistance is only available based upon remaining funds.
If repairs have not been started within 90 days of the date on your letter of approval, your application and eligibility will be considered abandoned.
Be warned that if you qualified under "low income provision" you are not required to pay anything above the $20 copay. If a shop wants to charge you more, tell them no you do not authorize further work. If a shop attempts to force the issue call and set an appointment with the state referee 1-800-622-7733

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