Step 2: Initiate the Donation Process
Once you’ve chosen a charity, initiating the process is simple.
- Contact the Charity: Visit their website’s donation page or call their dedicated donation hotline.
- Provide Vehicle Information: You will need to provide basic details about your car:
- Year, Make, Model
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Mileage
- General condition (running vs. non-running)
- Location of the vehicle
- Title status
Step 3: Schedule the Free Towing
The charity will arrange for a licensed and insured towing company to contact you and schedule a pickup time. This service is almost always free, regardless of the condition or location of your vehicle. This is a core part of the convenience that makes it so easy to donate your car today.
Step 4: Prepare for Pickup Day
On the day of the scheduled pickup, you will need to:
- Have the Title Ready: Ensure you have the car’s certificate of title. You will need to sign the title over to the charity or their agent. Important: Do not sign the title until you are in the presence of the tow truck driver and are completing the transaction.
- Remove Personal Belongings: Thoroughly clean out the vehicle of all personal items, including documents, CDs, sunglasses, and anything else you wish to keep.
- Provide the Keys: Have all sets of keys ready to hand over.
Step 5: Complete the Transaction and Receive Your Receipt
When the tow truck driver arrives, they will complete a “Pick-Up Receipt” or “Vehicle Donation Form” with you. This document is crucial. It will note the date of pickup, the vehicle’s condition, and your information. This is your initial proof of donation. The official tax receipt will typically follow in the mail within 30 days after the vehicle has been sold.
Chapter 3: Navigating Complex Scenarios and Avoiding Pitfalls
While the process is generally smooth, certain situations require specific knowledge.
3.1. What If I Don’t Have the Title?
The title is the legal document that proves ownership. If you have lost it, you will need to obtain a duplicate from your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before you can donate your car today. This process varies by state but is usually straightforward, involving a form and a small fee.
3.2. What If the Car Isn’t Running?
This is one of the most common questions, and the answer is a resounding “Yes, you can still donate!” Charities accept vehicles in all conditions: running, non-running, wrecked, and even cars that are completely stripped for parts. The towing company is equipped to handle all situations. The vehicle’s value may be lower, but it can still be sold for scrap or parts, generating funds for the charity.
