DONATE A CAR
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
GENERAL
Can I donate a car that doesn't run?
Sure! Almost any non-running vehicle can be donated to our charity. If you have a car that hasn't been running recently fill out our online form, and we'll come pick it up for free.
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Whether it runs or not, donating to LA Car Donations is a hassle-free method to get rid of unwanted vehicles. Most salvage yards recycle donated autos. Donating a non-operational car still qualifies you for tax education, and the money raised from its sale will go directly toward supporting LA Car Donations charitable initiatives.
What will happen to my car after it is donated?
In order to maximize the value of your car, we will evaluate it thoroughly to determine the most advantageous selling strategy. The funds generated from the sale of your vehicle will directly contribute to the charitable programs of LA Car Donations. Additionally, you will receive a tax-deductible receipt for the amount your car is sold for.
Is there any expense involved on my part, like towing charges?
No. There is absolutely no fees involved when it comes to donating, processing, or arranging for the pickup of your donation.
What can I donate?
We accept car donations, trucks, RVs, buses, boats, trailers, snowmobiles, jet skis, motorcycles, and vans. Nearly any vehicle is acceptable.
Can I donate an abandoned car?
Sadly, we are unable to accept abandoned vehicles.
What areas do you service?
Although our primery focus is California, we will do our best to accept cars from anywhere in the USA. In Texas, LA Car Donations is not currently collecting donations.
Can I donate a car whose owner has passed away?
Provided that you possess a copy of the death certificate and appropriate documentation proving your status as the official inheritor of the deceased's belongings, we are able to accept the vehicle.
Why donate a vehicle to charity?
There are a few benefits:
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You get a fast & easy pickup of your vehicle by professionals
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You receive a maximum tax deduction
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You get to help a charity for children
What will I receive at the time of pickup?
At the time of pickup, you will receive a provisional receipt. It will include all the details about your car as well as our name and contact information. Once the car is picked up and processed, we'll mail you your tax-deductible receipt.
Pickup
Who will pick up my car?
LA Car Donations works with a network of towing companies to pick up donated vehicles. We will get in touch with you to schedule a free pickup at a time that works for you.
Can you pick up my car if it's not at my house?
Sure! We can pick up your automobile from any location, including the mechanic, the side of the road, or even in another state.
Do I have to be home when pickup my car?
No! Simply take out all of your personal items from the car and leave the keys and title in the glove box.
How quickly can you pickup my car?
Usually, we can make arrangements for your automobile to be picked up as soon as needed. Within 24 hours of receiving your call, we will get in touch with you to arrange a pickup time. Pickup is often planned for a day or two later, but we'll try to accommodate you if you need your car picked up sooner.
Tax Deduction
How much will I recieve as a tax deduction for my used car?
The tax deduction you can claim depends on the value or sale price of the vehicle. The IRS provides the following options for tax deductions:
If your car sells for LESS than $500: You can claim a tax deduction for the fair market value of your vehicle, up to $500.
If your car sells for MORE than $500: You can claim a tax deduction for the actual amount we sell your vehicle for.
The tax-deductible receipt will indicate this amount.
LA Car Donations thru our sister org. Chabad is a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. To determine the precise benefit you may receive, we recommend consulting with your tax advisor or accountant. It's important to note that the deduction is only valuable if the donor itemizes their deductions. For a more comprehensive understanding, the IRS publishes a Donors Guide to Car Donation.
How do you determine the value of my car?
Our knowledgeable team assesses each vehicle to determine how to sell it for the highest possible price. We consider a variety of elements, including year, make, model, mileage, and regional market conditions. Selling your car for the highest price possible is in both of our best interests.
When will I receive my tax receipt?
Within three to six weeks of donation, you should receive in the mail your tax-deductible receipt. A temporary receipt will also be given to you at the time of the pickup.
Plates & Titles
What should I do with my license plate after I donate my car?
Once the tower arrives, you should remove the license plates and return them to the DMV.
In the states of Arizona, California, Illinois, Minnesota, and Washington, you need to submit a release of liability to the DMV . In Minnesota, Illinois, and Washington, this form is called a report of sale. In Alaska and Hawaii, you need to complete and submit a Notice of Vehicle Sale, which is the transfer form attached to the bottom of your title.
You can indicate "donation" in the space provided for the vehicle's purchase price.
What do I need to know about signing my title?
Please be sure to print and sign your name as the "Seller" EXACTLY as it appears on the face of the title.
Can I donate my car if I don't have the title?
We can usually pick up a car even if there is no title. The registered owner will just need to sign some paperwork for us.