Car donation tax deduction
Tax deduction explained: what you can claim.
It comes down to one thing: what your vehicle sells for. Here's how it works and what paperwork we send.
- Sells for more than $500: you can claim the sale price
- $500 or less: its fair market value, up to $500
- A receipt at pickup, and IRS Form 1098-C for sales over $500
Takes about a minute. We call you back to schedule.
Your donation supports programs for veterans, active duty military and first responders.
Tax deduction explained
How does the car donation tax deduction work?
It comes down to one thing: what your vehicle sells for.
| Your vehicle sells for | You can claim |
|---|---|
| More than $500 | The sale price |
| $500 or less | Its fair market value, up to $500 |
What you'll receive
At pickup: the driver gives you a receipt. Keep it with your tax records, whatever happens next.
After the sale: if your vehicle sold for more than $500, we also send you IRS Form 1098-C with the exact figure on it, within 30 days and automatically. You don't need to work anything out or call and ask for it.
If it sold for $500 or less, there's no 1098-C. The receipt from pickup is your documentation.
One thing worth knowing: the sale price is a ceiling, not a target. If your car's book value is $3,000 and it sells at auction for $900, the figure on your 1098-C is $900.
Before you file
That's what we can tell you: what the vehicle sold for, and what paperwork we send.
Whether you can claim it, and how much, depends on your own tax position. Talk to your tax preparer before you file. They'll tell you in a minute.
What you can count on
Fast, free pickup
Most vehicles are collected within 24–48 hours of being scheduled. No towing fee, nothing to pay at any point.
Any condition, running or not
Almost any vehicle: if it's in one piece we can usually take it. Won't start or sitting for years: we tow it.
Expert paperwork guidance
Our title team works out what your state needs and shows you exactly where to sign.
Tax-deductible donation
You get a receipt at pickup and your tax paperwork after the sale.
How it works
How donating works
- About a minute
Tell us about the vehicle
Fill in the short form or call us.
- Usually within the hour
We call you to schedule
Our team calls you back and books a pickup time that suits you.
- Once scheduled
We pick it up, free
Most vehicles are collected within 24–48 hours of being scheduled. You don't need to be there.
- At pickup
You get your receipt
The driver leaves a receipt. Keep it with your tax records. Your tax paperwork follows after the sale.
Donate your car
Takes about a minute. We call you back to schedule your free pickup.
Common questions
How much can I claim?
If your vehicle sells for more than $500, you can claim the sale price, and we send you IRS Form 1098-C. If it sells for $500 or less, you can claim its fair market value, up to $500. Talk to your tax preparer before you file.
When do I get my tax receipt?
The driver gives you a receipt at pickup. Keep it. If your vehicle sells for more than $500, we also send you IRS Form 1098-C within 30 days of the sale, automatically. You don't need to call and ask for it. Vehicles typically sell within 5–8 weeks of pickup.
What if it sells for under $500?
You can claim its fair market value, up to $500. There's no 1098-C: the receipt from pickup is your documentation. Talk to your tax preparer before you file.
What condition can my vehicle be in?
Almost any. We accept vehicles running or not. The vehicle needs to be in one piece, have its engine, and be somewhere a tow truck can reach it.
Is Veterans Auto Donation legitimate?
Yes. Veterans Auto Donation is a program supported by Charitable Allies, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Its EIN is 35-1615544, and you can look it up in the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search.
Donate your car this week
Fast, free pickup anywhere in the US. Running or not.