Pre-donation Questions
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My vehicle is in another state and I can't be there at the pickup. Can I still donate it?
Yes! You may designate someone as the point of contact (POC) to be present on your behalf at the time of the pickup of your donated vehicle. Please provide us with the name of your POC and prepare the person meeting the tow driver by explaining that they’ll need to hand over the signed title and keys. If you are not able to appoint anyone, please let us know and we will try our best to help. Please also remember to remove all personal belongings from the vehicle.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
How will my vehicle be picked up?
Once you have provided us with all necessary information via the online vehicle donation form or over the phone with one of our Vehicle Donor Support Representatives, we will arrange to have a licensed tow company pick up your vehicle at a time convenient for you. The vehicle will be picked up and taken to one of our many sale locations where it will be sold—all at no cost to you.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Do I need a smog certificate or safety inspection in order to donate my vehicle?
No, we can accept your vehicle donation even if it failed a smog test. We will take care of smog and inspections. At pickup, you will be given a receipt that releases you from future liability for your donated vehicle.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
What if I don't have the title for my vehicle?
It is possible to donate without the title. Please call one of our friendly vehicle donation specialists toll-free at (866) 202-0870 and they will help you with your title questions.
In which states do you offer vehicle donation program?
We take donations nationwide and we will come to your home or office at a time convenient to you. Pickup is always Free and there are no costs to you at all.
If you have questions about your state, or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Is there any expense involved on my part, like towing charges?
No, there is absolutely no cost to you for the vehicle pickup, towing, or donation processing and we also take care of all DMV paperwork.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Can I donate a vehicle whose owner passed away?
We can accept the vehicle if you have a copy of the death certificate and documentation that you are the official inheritor of the deceased’s vehicle.
Do you accept abandoned vehicles?
Unfortunately, we cannot accept abandoned vehicles. Contact your local police to list the vehicle as abandoned or find out if a local junkyard can pick it up.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Is my donated vehicle tax deductible?
Yes, vehicle donations are tax-deductible. We are a 501(c)(3) organization and have been approved by the IRS to receive donated items and issue tax-deductible donation receipts. Please check with your tax advisor to determine how you may benefit.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Can I donate my vehicle if it is not running?
Yes! You can donate almost any vehicle that doesn’t run to our charity. If you have vehicle that hasn’t been in running condition for a while, fill out our online form or give us a call at (866) 202-0870 and vehicle donation specialist will help you. With some vehicles, where the cost to pick up the vehicle exceeds the value, we may have to decline the donation.
What is the entire process for making vehicle donation?
We have made the vehicle donation process easy, fast and safe for vehicle donors.
[1] Contact us Fill out the easy online vehicle donation form or Talk to vehicle donation specialist at Veterans Auto Donation, call (866) 202-0870 for help.
[2] Fast, free pickup for your vehicle One of our vehicle processing specialists will arrange to have your vehicle picked at your convenience, at your location by a professionally licensed, bonded, and insured towing partner. vehicle pickup is always free, and you will incur no costs for making your donation
If you need to change the pickup time or have issues with the pickup, please call (866) 202-0870
At pickup, our towing specialist will issue a receipt at the time of pickup, which is a release of liability and confirmation that your vehicle has been picked up. The receipt will indicate your name as well as the year, make, model, and condition of the vehicle you are donating. This is your tax receipt if the sale value of your vehicle does not exceed $500.
[3] Save money on your taxes Processing your picked up vehicle usually takes around 4 to 6 weeks, but in some cases may take longer due to particular state title requirements or title laws. Once your donation has sold, you will be notified by email of the value of your donation. (If you do not have email, you will be notified by mail)
If your vehicle sells for more than $500, your receipt will be for the sale amount. Otherwise, you can claim the fair market value of your vehicle up to $500.
You will be given a secure login account, and you will be able to download all the documents you need to take a donation tax deduction.
[4] You helped veterans Your tax-deductible donation supports L1FE Organization’s wellness and resource programs for active duty military, veterans, first responders, and their families.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
What vehicle types can I donated?
We accept all vehicle donations, and in most cases, we also accept boats, motorcycles, RVs, campers, and more.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Can I donate without being present?
Yes. Contactless donation is easy:
- Remove personal belongings from your vehicle
- Leave the signed title and keys in the glove compartment
- Our tow driver picks up the vehicle and leaves a receipt at your door
Your tax receipt will be emailed once the vehicle sells. Hard copies available upon request.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
What are some of the benefits of donating my vehicle to a Veteran non-profit?
Some of the benefits of donating to a Veterans charity:
- You get a fast & easy pickup of your vehicle by donation professionals
- Help or give back to people who sacrificed so much for our nation
- Turn that unwanted vehicle into an IRS tax deduction
- Free up space in your garage or drive-way.
- Our fast and easy Pickup and Towing means we work around your schedule.
- No need to pay hefty vehicle repair bills
- Avoid the costs associated with selling your vehicle
- No need to pay for advertising to try and sell your vehicle
- Avoid privacy and security risk of having buyers come to your home
- No more costs of vehicle registration and insurance
If you need assistance, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Pickup Questions
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What is considered accessible for safe towing?
Vehicle donations considered accessible for safe towing are typically parked in the front driveway, in front of the home or apartment building, or on the street and without any other vehicles or other items blocking the intended donation. The tow operators typically cannot access areas that do not have a direct path to the vehicle backyards and back alleyways, nor underground structures. Usually, all four tires should be inflated as well. We strive to consider every vehicle donation, so if you’re not sure whether your vehicle is accessible for safe towing, please let us know and we will do our best to support you.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Do I need a smog certificate to donate my car?
No. For states that require a smog certificate or safety inspection, you may still donate your vehicle without a smog certificate or safety inspection.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
When do I cancel my insurance?
Only cancel your vehicle’s insurance AFTER you have notified the state that you’ve donated your vehicle. If your state requires notification, please be aware that you should never cancel your insurance prior to reporting to the state you are no longer in possession of the vehicle. This is a general rule for States/Motor Vehicle Departments that require notification be submitted or license plates returned.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Do I have to notify my local DMV when I donate my vehicle?
If state notification is required, it is up to the donor or owner of the donated vehicle to complete this process. Please do not rely on the pickup driver or vendor to report to the State/Motor Vehicle Department that you are no longer in possession of the vehicle.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
What happens after my vehicle is picked up?
Processing your vehicle usually takes around 4 to 6 weeks but in some cases may take longer due to particular state title requirements or title laws. Once your donation has sold you will be notified by email of the value of your donation. (If you do not have email, you will be notified by mail)
You will be given a secure login account and you will be able to download all the documents you need to take a tax-deductible donation.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
What is the procedure at the time of pickup?
At pickup, all we need is the title and keys. A certified towing professional will give you a temporary vehicle donation receipt, which is a release of liability and confirmation that your vehicle has been donated & picked up.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Who will pickup my vehicle donation?
Veterans Auto Donation has a network of professionally licensed, bonded, and insured towing partners throughout the U.S. that will pick up your vehicle donation. You will be contacted to arrange a time of pickup that is convenient for you. Pickup is always free.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
How quickly can you pickup my vehicle for donation?
We can usually arrange to have your vehicle picked up as quickly as possible. A local towing company will be in touch to schedule a pickup within 24 hours after you contact us. Pickup is usually scheduled for a day or two later, but if you need your vehicle picked up sooner, we’ll do our best to help. Just call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Do I have to be home when you pickup my vehicle?
No! Just remove all personal belongings from the vehicle and leave the keys and title in the glove compartment.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
How long will it take for you to pickup my vehicle?
Once you have contacted us, one of our representatives will arrange to have your vehicle towed away at your convenience by our professionally licensed, bonded, and insured drivers.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
What is the entire process for making vehicle donation?
We have made the vehicle donation process easy, fast and safe for vehicle donors.
[1] Contact us Fill out the easy online vehicle donation form or Talk to vehicle donation specialist at Veterans Auto Donation, call (866) 202-0870 for help.
[2] Fast, free pickup for your vehicle One of our vehicle processing specialists will arrange to have your vehicle picked at your convenience, at your location by a professionally licensed, bonded, and insured towing partner. vehicle pickup is always free, and you will incur no costs for making your donation
If you need to change the pickup time or have issues with the pickup, please call (866) 202-0870
At pickup, our towing specialist will issue a receipt at the time of pickup, which is a release of liability and confirmation that your vehicle has been picked up. The receipt will indicate your name as well as the year, make, model, and condition of the vehicle you are donating. This is your tax receipt if the sale value of your vehicle does not exceed $500.
[3] Save money on your taxes Processing your picked up vehicle usually takes around 4 to 6 weeks, but in some cases may take longer due to particular state title requirements or title laws. Once your donation has sold, you will be notified by email of the value of your donation. (If you do not have email, you will be notified by mail)
If your vehicle sells for more than $500, your receipt will be for the sale amount. Otherwise, you can claim the fair market value of your vehicle up to $500.
You will be given a secure login account, and you will be able to download all the documents you need to take a donation tax deduction.
[4] You helped veterans Your tax-deductible donation supports L1FE Organization’s wellness and resource programs for active duty military, veterans, first responders, and their families.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Tax Questions
Ready to donate?
You'll be done in 90 seconds!
Can I claim the donation in the year I donated my vehicle?
Yes. The contribution date is when the charity receives your donation and title. Donations submitted with a clear title by December 31st qualify for the tax year in which they are received. You’ll receive a written receipt confirming your donation. For vehicles selling over $500, your deduction is typically the sale price, documented on Form 1098-C. Consult your tax advisor for guidance on your specific situation.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Where can I find additional IRS tax deduction requirements for a charitable car donation?
- IRS Publication 526, Charitable Contributions
- IRS Publication 561, Determining the Value of Donated Property
- IRS Publication 4303, A Donor’s Guide to Vehicle Donations
- IRS Form 8283, Noncash Charitable Contributions
- IRS Instructions for Form 8283, Noncash Charitable Contributions
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Which non-profit benefits from my vehicle donation?
VeteransAutoDonation.org is a program supported by Charitable Allies, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (Tax ID: 35-1615544). Proceeds support L1FE Organization’s programs for active duty military, veterans, first responders, and their families.
L1FE was founded by B. Taylor — a decorated Navy veteran who served in the U.S. Navy, an artist with 2 Grammy Nomination Considerations, HillVets Top 100 most influential veteran, and Goodwill Global Ambassador to the U.S. Military. After his service, B. Taylor dedicated his career to helping fellow veterans and first responders through music, wellness, and community.
Programs include wellness activities such as music, arts, yoga, sports, martial arts, and animal therapy — delivered through the L1FE Wellness Program and L1FE Heroes Experience.
Charitable Allies | Tax ID: 35-1615544
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Will I get a tax receipt & release from liability?
Yes, at pickup our towing specialist will issue a receipt which is a release of liability and confirmation that your vehicle has been picked up. It allows you to take the minimum tax deduction, up to $500 without further paperwork.
In addition, within 30 days of your vehicle sale, you will receive a tax receipt for the full sales value of your donation.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Is my donated vehicle tax deductible?
Yes, vehicle donations are tax-deductible. We are a 501(c)(3) organization and have been approved by the IRS to receive donated items and issue tax-deductible donation receipts. Please check with your tax advisor to determine how you may benefit.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
How much can I claim for donating my vehicle?
Per IRS Publication 561:
- If the donated vehicle is sold for less than $500, you can claim the fair market value up to $500.
- If it sells for more than $500, you can claim the amount for which the vehicle is sold.
We make it easy to get the maximum tax deduction for your vehicle donation! Just fill out the quick online form, or call (866) 202-0870 and we will take care of the rest.
Please consult with your tax professional to determine how much you may claim for donating your vehicle.
How do you determine the value of my vehicle for tax purposes?
Your vehicle donations to an IRS approved 501(c)(3) charity is tax deductible as follows:
For vehicle sold for under $500, you can claim the fair market value up to $500.00 without any additional paperwork. The preliminary tax receipt will be mailed after the vehicle has been confirmed picked up.
If the gross proceeds for the sale of your donated vehicle exceeds $500.00, your deduction will be limited to the actual sale price. We will provide you with a receipt stating the final sales price of your vehicle within 30 days of its sale.
We do all we can to maximize the selling price of your car, this way you can get a larger tax write off and more funds go back to our veterans.
Always check with your tax advisor or accountant to determine the amount of your benefit.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Title Questions
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If there is more than one person listed as owner on the title, do all parties have to sign the title?
If the word “and/or” is not listed between the names of the parties/owners, then all parties will need to sign the title.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
Do I have any liability issues to worry about and who transfers title?
We will handle all the transfer documents in compliance with your local state Department of Vehicle Services guidelines. When your vehicle is picked up by our certified towing professional, you will be given a receipt that releases you from future liability for your donated vehicle.
If you have questions on how to donate, please call our Vehicle Donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870
What if I don't have the title for my vehicle?
It is possible to donate without the title. Please call one of our friendly vehicle donation specialists toll-free at (866) 202-0870 and they will help you with your title questions.
What paperwork do I need to donate my vehicle?
Most states require that you have a clear title to the vehicle; some states also require a notarized signature to complete a donation. If your state requires a notary to sign the document, do not sign the title until you are in the presence of the notary.
If you cannot locate or have lost the Certificate of Title, we can help you obtain the proper documentation.
If you have questions or to donate, please call our helpful vehicle donation specialists for fast assistance at (866) 202-0870