Thinking about donating your car? These tips will help you get the most out of your donation — both for your tax deduction and for the charity you’re supporting.
The Smart Donor’s Guide to Car Donation
Always Donate to an IRS-Registered 501(c)3
Before donating, confirm the organization is a qualified IRS 501(c)3 charity — otherwise your donation may not be tax deductible. You can verify any charity at IRS.gov. Donate a Car 2 Charity benefits Activated Ministries, EIN 33-0857142, a verified 501(c)3.
Understand How Your Deduction Is Calculated
IRS rules changed in 2005. Today, your deduction depends on the vehicle’s sale price: if it sells for under $500, you can claim fair market value up to a $500 cap; if it sells for $500 or more, you claim the actual sale price. See our Tax Deduction Guide for the full breakdown — and remember you’ll need to itemize deductions on your tax return to benefit.
Check the Vehicle’s Fair Market Value
Use Kelley Blue Book, NADA Guides, or Edmunds to get a sense of your vehicle’s value. Be honest about your vehicle’s condition — high mileage, body damage, or mechanical issues all affect value.
Know Your Title Situation
If you have your vehicle title, locate it before scheduling pickup. If you don’t — or if it’s in someone else’s name, lost, or has a lien — that’s often not a dealbreaker. See our guide on donating a car without a title for all the common situations.
Make Sure There Are No Hidden Costs
Reputable charities — including Donate a Car 2 Charity — pick up your vehicle at no cost. No towing fees, no hidden charges. If a charity asks you to pay anything upfront, look elsewhere.
Confirm Nationwide Pickup
Make sure the charity services your area. We pick up in 43 states plus DC — check our coverage area to see if we reach your location.
Know What Vehicles Are Accepted
We accept cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, motorcycles, RVs, boats, trailers, fleet vehicles, backhoes, and forklifts — running or not. See the FAQ for the full list and exceptions.
Keep Your Tax Paperwork
You’ll receive an initial receipt at pickup — save it for your tax records. If your vehicle sells for $500 or more, we’ll also mail you IRS Form 1098-C within 30 days of the sale. You may also need IRS Form 8283 if your total non-cash charitable donations for the year exceed $500.