My car sucks and is at the end of its long but troubled existence. How hard is it to donate a car to a charity? Do you really get any worthwhile tax breaks for doing it or is it just a scam?
Answers from the Automotive Experts
It is very easy to donate your vehicle, just call the GoodWill in your area and they will walk you through the process and give you a receipt for your donation. The value is based on the book value of the vehicle at the time of donation. You need to consult your tax advisor to find out exactly how this will impact your taxes as it is very individual based on your tax bracket and how you file your taxes. It is always a good deal to donate the vehicle as it eliminates the liability of selling a vehicle that might not be safe to drive or may break down and that leaves you with liability issues. It is definitely not a "scam".
It is not hard to donate your car to charity. If you go to www.donatecarusa.com it explains how their program works.
I am sure there are some that are scams out there but there really is a way to donate your car. And let me commend you for thinking of that!
Here are some that I found, but you should probably look into them more to see what each offer:
http://www.donatecarusa.com/
http://cars4disabledvets.org/?k=Veterans&gclid=CM3f6vfOoqACFR0pawod5l5T5g
http://www.800charitycars.org/
Here is some info on what to do in order to donate properly:
http://www.charitywatch.org/articles/car.html
I would check with my local better business bureau and tax consultant before making this decision. Financially, you must look at which is worth more to you..a tax deduction if you itemize or a cash value as a trade-in.
Georgia Brown
Education Director
NIADA