How to Donate a Car to Charity
Since you've decided to donate your car or any other vehicle, the biggest step is already done. Honestly, making the donation cannot be easier.
The best thing to do is contact a donation center. Most will take your information over the phone and handle all necessary documents, pick up your vehicle, and sell it at auction. Once the funds are collected at auction, the center will deliver them to your charitable organization. However, some charities do use the car for various services instead of selling it.
You can also donate your car online.
Just follow these simple steps:
1. After you have decided that you will donate your car, research the various charities that accept vehicle donations. Make sure they meet government standards for charities.
2. Once you have researched and chosen a charity, contact them by phone. Feel free to ask as many questions as you'd like.
3. Most will take all your information and your vehicle information over the phone or set up a time to discuss with you in person.
4. The organization will call you back to verify the information and set up a pick-up date with you immediately or the towing company will contact you themselves.
5. The towing company will come to your house, free of charge, on a chosen date and pick up your vehicle. You will need to hand over the title of the vehicle and the keys.
6. You will need to determine the fair market value of your car or vehicle. You can follow the directions on the Fair Market Value page, using the Kelley Blue Book.
7. You will receive a tax receipt for the value of your vehicle donation - you can use this receipt to claim a tax deduction on your taxes.
8. Depending on the charity, the car will either be sold via an auction and the much needed money will be given to the charity or the car will be used for various purposes in the organization.