If you’re considering donating a car in Boston or anywhere in Massachusetts, then we’ve got you covered. Donating is a super straightforward process with the right donation program, and it allows you to support a cause close to your heart.
How do I donate my car?
This part is a lot easier than you would think. If you’re donating with Car Talk VDP and are supporting your local NPR station, you can fill out the online donation form and a towing agent will contact you within 2-3 business days to schedule a free car pick up. At the time of pick up, you’ll hand over the car keys and signed title to the tow driver. Instructions on how to sign your title can be found in the confirmation email you received after submitting the donation form. Or, you can call our processing center at 877-215-0227 and a customer service representative can walk you through it.
Will I receive a tax donation?
You certainly will. In Massachusetts, the process is super simple. Within 30 days of the sale of your vehicle, you will receive an email with a tax receipt for your car donation. The amount that is tax-deductible is equal to the sale price of your vehicle. If your car sold for less than $500, you can claim the fair market value of the vehicle up to $499. If your vehicle sells for more than $500 and you want to claim the full amount when itemizing taxes, an IRS Form 1098-C, Contributions of Motor Vehicles, Boats, and Airplanes will be mailed to you. This form will be your tax receipt for your Boston car donation.
Can I donate a car that doesn’t run?
You can! Most car donation programs will take pretty much anything with an engine. Speaking for Car Talk, you can donate cars, planes, boats, RVs, jet skis… the list goes on. We’ve had a few planes donated over the years (although our usual collection partners aren’t always thrilled about it, we are!).
Which areas are covered in Boston?
All of them! Regardless of where you are, Car Talk VDP will find a local partner to come and collect your car. It’s simple and easy, with a time being arranged to suit you. The process should be as simple and easy as possible for you.
What happens to a car after it’s been donated?
Once you’ve donated your car, we will arrange for a tow driver to come and collect it. Depending on the model and condition of the car, it will either be sold directly to an auto recycler or sold at auction. Our goal is to get the highest price possible and make sure we can donate as much money as possible to public radio.
Filed under: Cars