That car has been sitting in the garage for a year now. Chances are you are not going to be taking it out anytime soon either. You might not realize the good it could be doing someone who needs a helping hand. Donating a car to charity not only frees up space for you, but it supplies money that goes to feed the hungry, help low income families pay their utility bills or buy books for a local library.
Does it have to Run?
The ideal donation is a running vehicle. Organizations that manage car donations for charity will take it whether it runs or not, however. A non-running car still has value – the best scenario is a car that starts, though. It doesn’t have to be washed recently – no need to get it detailed or anything like that. If it has minor mechanical issues, that is okay too. What is important is that you want to give. That is the starting point. From there, the details get less complex.
The only real requirement is that you own the car outright with no lien holders. Having a clear title for your donated vehicle ensures a seamless process. Can’t find your title? Contact Donate For Charity for instructions on how to proceed (866-392-4483)!
Does it have to be a Sedan?
Absolutely not – nonprofits utilize the funds from the sale of donations, not the vehicles themselves. Once you donate, auto experts will take the vehicle and sell or salvage it. That means any type of transportation works for their needs. They take:
- Cars
- Vans
- Trucks
- RVs
They can even use motorcycles or boats with a trailer.
What Charity Gets the Money?
That is up to you. Go to donateforcharity.com, Choose A Nonprofit – you can sort by category of cause, or by State, or both. Not sure? Call Donate For Charity and they will be happy to help give you ideas of very deserving causes.
How to Donate?
You have two options; you can donate via a website form or call to talk to a real live person. Get some information together when you are ready. You need:
- Make and model of the car
- Year
- Mileage – guess if you are not sure
- VIN
- Title or documents that are acceptable in place of title (has to be cleared with DFC first)
The vehicle identification number, or VIN, is on the title, registration or insurance card. You can also locate it at the base of the windshield on the driver’s side. The managing organization will arrange a convenient pick up time with you.
Is this a Tax Deductible?
That is the beauty of car donation. Once the car is sold, you get a charity receipt that your tax professional can use for your return. It is a win-win situation. You give to a worthy nonprofit organization and benefit from your generosity at the same time.
