Get a cheap or free commuter e-bike with WSDOT rebate program, opening April 9  | Cascadia Daily News

Apr 10, 2025

The state Department of Transportation, WSDOT, will open applications for its new e-bike rebate program, called WE-Bike, on Wednesday, April 9.

The program will give applicants across the state rebates totaling more than $4 million to encourage biking as an affordable, low-carbon transportation alternative to driving.

“Making e-bikes more affordable will move us away from car dependency, reduce congestion for those who choose to drive, and create more space for people rather than cars,” said Sonja Max, a Walk and Roll Bellingham board member and mobility advocate. “It’s a win for drivers and cyclists alike at a fraction of the cost of traditional infrastructure projects.”

People interested in receiving a rebate have two weeks to enter their name into a pool for the chance at being selected. The application opens at 7 a.m. Wednesday, April 9, and close at noon Wednesday, April 23.

WSDOT expects to give out about 10,000 vouchers, 60% of which will go to low-income households. Low-income households (at or below 80% of the county area median income) will receive one $1,200 rebate per household, while other applicants will receive a $300 rebate.

Recipients who are randomly selected will need to send supporting documents to the rebate program administrator, APTIM, in order to receive their rebates.

Shoppers can redeem their rebate during a one-time purchase at several stores in Whatcom and Skagit counties. Find out if your preferred shop is participating by checking this map.

A rebate can be used for commuter e-bikes, trikes and adaptive e-bikes, as well as helmets, lights and locks. E-mountain bike purchases are not eligible for a rebate. Rebates must be used within 45 days of receipt or by June 30, whichever comes first.

“This first round of rebates is just a start — we hope the legislature will continue to fund what is guaranteed to be a resounding success,” Max said.

Find the application here or learn more about the program here.

Julia Tellman writes about civic issues and anything else that happens to cross her desk; contact her at [email protected].