Tips & News

What to Know Before Donating a Car

Donating a car to charity is a great way to support a cause you care about while also getting rid of a vehicle that you no longer need. Not only does it help the organization, but it also provides you with a tax deduction for the fair market value of the vehicle.

If you're interested in donating your car to charity, here's what you need to know:

1. Choose a charity that accepts car donations

There are many charities that accept car donations, including national organizations. When donating with the Car Talk Vehicle Donation Program, you choose your favorite NPR station and from that, we’re able to process your donation and ensure the funds go to support national radio.

2. Check the charity's eligibility requirements

Each charity has its own eligibility requirements for car donations. In our case, you can donate any car in any condition. Really. What’s key for us is that you're the owner and have the title (we can help you replace this if you don’t have it).

3. Provide information about your car

When you start the donation process, you'll need to provide some basic information about your car. This includes the make, model, year, and overall condition of the vehicle. We will also need to know where the car is located and whether or not it is currently running. Pictures help us even more.

4. Arrange for the car to be picked up

After you submit the donation form, a licensed towing agent will contact you within 2-3 business days to schedule a free pick up time. Be sure your car is in a tow accessible location, such as a driveway or on the street. Please remove all personal belongings from the car before the tow driver arrives.

5. Transfer your car title

After you’ve scheduled a car pick up time, it’s time to transfer your title. You’ll sign your title over to our authorized agent, Advanced Remarketing Services. Instructions on how to sign your title can be found online and in the confirmation email you received after submitting the donation form. On the day of vehicle pick up, you’ll hand over the keys and signed title to the tow driver. Make sure to keep a copy of all the paperwork for your records.

6. Receive tax receipt and claim your tax deduction

After your car is sold, we’ll email you a tax receipt. You can claim your car donation tax deduction when itemizing taxes. The value of your car will determine the amount of your deduction.

By following these simple steps, you can donate your car to a charity and help support your local public radio station. Not only will you be doing something good for others, but you'll also receive a tax deduction for your donation. Donate a car to your local NPR station by filling out the donation form or by calling us at 877-215-0227!

Filed under: Cars

Further Reading

  • 1953 Truck donated through the Car Talk Vehicle Donation Program

    How Does Car Donation Work?

    Are you thinking about getting rid of your old car? Instead of dealing with the hassle of selling it or figuring out how to dispose of it, why not consider donating it? Car donation is not only a convenient way to get rid of your unwanted vehicle, but it can also benefit a cause you care about. If you're a fan of public radio or want to support a charitable organization, donating your car can be a win-win situation.

  • Charity Navigator offers in-depth information about charitable organizations

    How Do I Know This Charity Isn't a Fraud?

    When you donate to a non-profit, you want some assurance that it isn’t a fraud. Here’s how to learn about where your money goes.

  • Donating a vehicle to charity offers many benefits

    The Benefits of Car Donation

    From getting a junk car out of your driveway to significant tax benefits, donating a vehicle offers a lot of benefits. We’ll cover the most important.

  • Illustration of car title form

    How to Transfer Your Car Title for Donation

    So you’ve decided to donate your car to your favorite public radio station? Great! Let us walk you through the Title Transfer Process.

  • Maria with her daughter and donated Mazda.

    Car Talk Vehicle Donor Profile: Maria DeLucia-Evans

    Maria DeLucia-Evans is a writer and a Community Educator who lives near Albany, NY. In 2012, she donated her old 1999 Mazda Protege to her favorite public radio station, WAMC.