How to Donate a Car to Charity in Virginia

Would you like to donate a car to a charity in Virginia? Many people are choosing to donate their used cars for the tax deduction rather than sell them by owner or accept a low bid from a car dealer. Used cars, donated to charity organizations, give the donor the tax advantage of being able to deduct the car's full Blue Book value on their tax returns. Here's how to donate a car to a charity in Virginia.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Donating Used Cars to Virginia Charities

1. Research the charities that accept used car donations, and find out what the criteria are for your car's condition. Catholic Charities accepts only working cars in good condition, while other charities, such as Salvation Army and Melwood, will accept them in almost any condition.

2. Choose a charity. You might want to donate your car to a charity that will use it for needy families, or you might simply want to give it to the closest organization to you to avoid hassle. Find out if the charity will pick up your used car for free.

3. Gather your paperwork. Make sure you have your car title, a printout of the Blue Book value and recent inspection stickers and paperwork. Make sure the user and owner manuals are in the vehicle, as well as accessories like a bolt key for your tire.

4. Schedule a day and time for the pick up or delivery of your donated vehicle. Be sure to transfer the title and get a tax receipt for your records.

5. Tie up loose ends. Remove the vehicle from your automobile insurance policy and update your records with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Turn in your license plates if required, or transfer them to your new vehicle if applicable.

Tips & Warnings

• If you donate your car to Catholic Charities, the car will be given to a needy person (it will not be sold). Your donation is tax deductible.
• Salvation Army usually auctions the cars and uses the proceeds to support their work.
• Melwood uses donated cars for a variety of purposes, including giving to needy persons, repairing and selling for parts.

Resources

• Catholic Charities Car Donation Program in Virginia