How to Donate Your Car to Charity:
There are many questions when donating a car for the first time. We make the entire process simple for you while making sure the charity organization benefits the most from your vehicle donation. Call our vehicle donation specialists anytime at 855-520-2100.
Donation Process
What kind of vehicle can I donate to charity?
We cheerfully accept almost all vehicle donations. Most often, donors give their cars, trucks and SUVs.
We also receive many RVs, campers, trailers, motorcycles, -- and a surprising number of golf carts. Boats and jet skis are also very welcome -- as are snowmobiles and ATVs.
We even accept donated buses, commercial vehicles, construction- and heavy-equipment In fact if it has wheels, we'll probably take it. Running, or not. (We draw the line only at lawnmowers and blenders.) Please call 855-520-2100, or go directly to fill out the donate online form on the right side of this page.
We also receive many RVs, campers, trailers, motorcycles, -- and a surprising number of golf carts. Boats and jet skis are also very welcome -- as are snowmobiles and ATVs.
We even accept donated buses, commercial vehicles, construction- and heavy-equipment In fact if it has wheels, we'll probably take it. Running, or not. (We draw the line only at lawnmowers and blenders.) Please call 855-520-2100, or go directly to fill out the donate online form on the right side of this page.
How can I contact you to schedule a car donation pick up?
It's easy! Simply complete our brief, secure donate online form on the right side of this page or call us at 855-520-2100. We can meet your needs in just 3-5 minutes.
Will there be any cost to me?
No. There are absolutely no costs to you. For anything. (The charity you choose will reimburse us for the cost of towing, repairs or improvements, and a service / handling fee, which is typically paid from the value we add to the gross sale price of your vehicle donation.)
Simply complete the quick, secure donate online form on the right side of this page, or call one of our friendly Vehicle Donation Coordinators at 855-520-2100. We take care of all the details.
Simply complete the quick, secure donate online form on the right side of this page, or call one of our friendly Vehicle Donation Coordinators at 855-520-2100. We take care of all the details.
My car hasn't run in years. Can I still donate it?
Absolutely. Even clunkers have potential value. We accept most vehicles, running or not. In many cases, we can add value by making the car run again, at no cost to you. (Charities reimburse us for the cost of any repairs, along with a service fee, from the ultimate sale price of your vehicle.)
Simply complete our donate online form on the right side of this page, or call one of our friendly Vehicle Donation Coordinators at 855-520-2100. We make it quick and easy.
Simply complete our donate online form on the right side of this page, or call one of our friendly Vehicle Donation Coordinators at 855-520-2100. We make it quick and easy.
What do you do with my car donation?
At Cars2Charities our goal is to ensure that your charity of choice receives the maximum amount of money for your donation. We evaluate most vehicles, and when it is cost-effective and practical, we improve how it looks and/or runs. We always also clean and detail the vehicle.
Then we select the best marketing method to maximize the vehicle’s sale value. Some organizations auction vehicles that are donated. We, on the other hand, typically find it's best for you, and your charity, if we sell the vehicle to a retail buyer. Many buyers find fresh value in your newly improved vehicle, because we can often do more with it than you could.
As a result of this value maximization, our average selling price is significantly better: $1,835 average over the past 3 years. This means more money for your charity, and a larger tax deduction for you!
Then we select the best marketing method to maximize the vehicle’s sale value. Some organizations auction vehicles that are donated. We, on the other hand, typically find it's best for you, and your charity, if we sell the vehicle to a retail buyer. Many buyers find fresh value in your newly improved vehicle, because we can often do more with it than you could.
As a result of this value maximization, our average selling price is significantly better: $1,835 average over the past 3 years. This means more money for your charity, and a larger tax deduction for you!
I'm ready to donate my car. How do I get started?
To donate online, fill out the simple and secure donate online form on the right side of this page. To donate by phone, call 855-520-2100 seven days a week. It's that easy!
Service & Convenience
Where can you pick up a vehicle donation?
Anywhere you are! We focus on California, Arizona and Nevada. But if your Aunt Millie wants to donate her vehicle in Oklahoma or New York or Florida, call us: we may be able to add enough value to make it worthwhile. We often have donors call us after moving out of state, but they left their car at their old address in the Western U.S. We make it so easy. We've even had donors call us to process a vehicle for them while they are stationed in China as a missionary, or in France and Japan for work.
The pickup location will be wherever you prefer: your home, office, favorite coffee shop -- whatever! Anywhere a tow-truck can safely access your vehicle.
We can even pick it up from your mechanic shop. You don't even need to be present.
The pickup location will be wherever you prefer: your home, office, favorite coffee shop -- whatever! Anywhere a tow-truck can safely access your vehicle.
We can even pick it up from your mechanic shop. You don't even need to be present.
Do I have to there when you pick up the car I am donating?
Well, not you personally -- but someone you designate does need to meet the tow truck driver to release the vehicle. If you have constraints, just give us a quick call and we'll find a work-around that will please you.
How long will it take for you to pick up my donated vehicle?
Our average pickup time is usually 24-72 hours from your first contact with us. Sometimes, a donor needs a faster pickup -- it needs to go immediately. We're happy to make special arrangements to serve you if your car donation must be picked up more quickly.
You can start the process now by completing the donate online form on the right side of this page. Or call us at 855-520-2100. It's fast, easy, and free.
You can start the process now by completing the donate online form on the right side of this page. Or call us at 855-520-2100. It's fast, easy, and free.
Do I have any liability issues to worry about, with my vehicle donation?
No. Absolutely not. As soon as your vehicle arrives at our California processing center(s), we file a "release of liability" with the DMV. In other states, rules may vary and we explain the process on the "Vehicle Donation Receipt" that we email to you before your vehicle is picked up.
If we contact the DMV on your behalf, we also handle all transfer documents. If you ever have questions, or a specific concern, just call one of our friendly Vehicle Coordinators at 855-520-2100. We make it quick and easy.
If we contact the DMV on your behalf, we also handle all transfer documents. If you ever have questions, or a specific concern, just call one of our friendly Vehicle Coordinators at 855-520-2100. We make it quick and easy.
What happens if there’s a problem with my car after it’s donated?
You are responsible for the car only until it is picked up, including for any previous storage charges and previous fines the vehicle may have incurred before we pick it up. Once the car has been picked up we take full responsibility for the vehicle from that point. In the 1-in-300 case that some unexpected event occurs, we are here to see you through every step of the process. We have gone to remarkable lengths to ensure a great donor and buyer experience in virtually all cases.
Will I get a car donation tax receipt for my donation – and when?
Yes -- we will email you a receipt within 30 days after the sale of the vehicle. It is IRS Form 1098-C, and it comes in a quadruplicate. You get 2 copies along with a thank you letter. The charity gets a copy with the net check. The IRS gets the same copy.
Tax-Related
What documents do I need to donate my car?
We would like the vehicle title, but if you don't have it, please contact us anyway. If you can't locate or have lost the certificate of title, we can obtain it on your behalf. Call one of our friendly Vehicle Donation Coordinators toll-free at 855-520-2100. In most cases, we can complete the easy steps in just 3-5 minutes.
What if I don't have the title / pink slip when I donate a vehicle?
We can almost always pick up your car donation without a vehicle title -- and then obtain the title on your behalf after that as part of our service to you and the non-profit you choose. Please call one of our friendly Vehicle Donation Coordinators at 855-520-2100.
What if the vehicle isn’t registered in my name, or I’ve had a name change?
The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name. Simply contact one of our friendly Vehicle Donation Coordinators at 855-520-2100. We will help you quickly and easily.
What do I need to know about transfering or signing my title?
In general, when selling or donating a vehicle you must complete the section of the title labeled "assignment of title by owner" tor "transfer of ownership by seller". When signing your title, please print and sign your name as the "Seller" in exactly the same way it appears on the face of the title.
We'll be glad to talk you through it on a quick call -- typically just 3-5 minutes. Simply dial 855-520-2100 and chat with one of our helpful Vehicle Donation Coordinators.
We'll be glad to talk you through it on a quick call -- typically just 3-5 minutes. Simply dial 855-520-2100 and chat with one of our helpful Vehicle Donation Coordinators.
Can I donate a vehicle that belonged to someone who has passed away?
Yes. Different states require different paperwork. Usually this involves a copy of (1) the death certificate, (2) documentation that you are the official inheritor of the vehicle, and (3) the signed title. Please call us at 855-520-2100 to confirm what is needed in your state.
Can I donate an abandoned car?
No. Unfortunately, we are not able accept abandoned cars. Contact your local municipality regarding removal of abandoned vehicles.
Who Benefits?
Is my car donation tax deductible?
Yes! Vehicle donations are 100% tax deductible for the full amount your vehicle sells for (on behalf of whichever IRS-registered non-profit 501(c)3 charitable organization you choose). And because we typically add 25-50% value to your donated vehicle, this means you usually get a higher tax deduction. Just call one of our friendly Vehicle Donation Coordinators at 855-520-2100 to get started.
However, individual tax situations vary. So please check with a tax professional to determine what if any tax benefit you may receive from a tax deductible donation.
However, individual tax situations vary. So please check with a tax professional to determine what if any tax benefit you may receive from a tax deductible donation.
How do you determine the value of my donated vehicle?
The value of your vehicle is determined by the exact amount your donation sells for, after we improve it and market it to a great buyer.
We are usually able to create an additional 25%-50% value -- compared to the "as is" value if your vehicle were to be sold at auction, which our competitors do. In fact, that's the reason we saw a need to start serving donors like you.
In a few cases, a vehicle may have little or no remaining value. In some rare cases, we can sell it only for parts, or scrap metal -- resulting in only a few hundred dollars. But even then, the IRS allows the donor to take a tax deduction of up to $500.
Typically, a donor's tax deduction is in the range of $1,500 to $5,000. Some donated vehicles sell for $8,000 - $12,000 or more. Our 3-year average sale price is currently $1,835.
We are usually able to create an additional 25%-50% value -- compared to the "as is" value if your vehicle were to be sold at auction, which our competitors do. In fact, that's the reason we saw a need to start serving donors like you.
In a few cases, a vehicle may have little or no remaining value. In some rare cases, we can sell it only for parts, or scrap metal -- resulting in only a few hundred dollars. But even then, the IRS allows the donor to take a tax deduction of up to $500.
Typically, a donor's tax deduction is in the range of $1,500 to $5,000. Some donated vehicles sell for $8,000 - $12,000 or more. Our 3-year average sale price is currently $1,835.
How much will I receive as a tax deduction for my donated vehicle?
The IRS allows you to claim a tax deduction equal to:
We provide you with an IRS tax form showing the final sales price of your vehicle, within 30 days of its sale.
Note: The deduction is of value only if the donor itemizes his or her deductions. You may want to check with your tax advisor to determine the amount of your benefit.
- The amount we sell your vehicle for. We will mail you a completed IRS tax form 1098-C showing the exact sale amount.
- Even if your car sells for less than $500, the IRS still allows you to deduct $500!
We provide you with an IRS tax form showing the final sales price of your vehicle, within 30 days of its sale.
Note: The deduction is of value only if the donor itemizes his or her deductions. You may want to check with your tax advisor to determine the amount of your benefit.