Donate a Car to Help a Family in Need

How car donation works

1. Email us with the year, make, model, mileage, condition and location of the vehicle.
2. We confirm whether the car can be placed with a family or should be sold to fund our programs.
3. We arrange pickup or drop-off with you.
4. You sign over the title and receive a written acknowledgment.

What happens to your donated car

Every donated vehicle is evaluated. Reliable cars that pass inspection can be repaired and placed with a working family, a veteran or a parent who needs transportation. Vehicles that are not safe or practical to place may be sold, with the proceeds used to repair other cars and support families.

Which cars help most?

Reliable, fuel-efficient cars and minivans that run well are the most valuable to families. Vehicles that need major repairs may still be accepted and sold to fund repairs for other families.

Car donation tax deduction

If you itemize deductions, a donated vehicle may be tax deductible when given to a qualified 501(c)(3) charity. Under IRS rules, if the charity sells the car for more than $500, your deduction is generally limited to the gross sale proceeds, and you should receive IRS Form 1098-C. If the charity gives the car to a person in need or uses it significantly, you may be able to deduct fair market value. Talk to a tax professional about your situation. Read our full car donation tax deduction guide.

Documents you will need

• The vehicle title in your name (or a lien release if the loan is paid off)
• Your photo ID
• Keys and any spare keys or manuals

Remove your license plates if your state requires it, cancel your insurance after the transfer, and keep a copy of the signed title.

Protect yourself

Never leave the buyer/transferee section of your title blank, and keep a copy of all paperwork. Notify your DMV and insurer after the transfer.

Frequently asked questions