How to Donate a Car in MA

If you are a Massachusetts resident, you can give to the charity of your choice by donating a car that you no longer use. Making a car donation is a win-win transaction. You get rid of a car you don’t need and a tax deduction, while the charity gets a car they can sell and use the proceeds.

Instructions

1. Spend some time researching the charity. Find out what they stand for and whom they help. Go to the Better Business Bureau and the Massachusetts Attorney General to see if there are any outstanding complaints and if so, how they were resolved.

2. Find out how the charity will use the vehicle. Some Massachusetts charities sell car donations and use the proceeds, while others repair the donated cars and distribute them to people in need.

3. Remove the license plates and return them to the Massachusetts Department of Motor Vehicles. Removing and returning the license plate protects you from any liability or claim that may arise from the vehicle after you’ve transferred ownership.

4. Locate the title. Most charities in Massachusetts cannot accept a donated car without a valid car title. If you’re having a difficult time locating the car title, order a duplicate title from the Massachusetts Department of Motor Vehicles. Once you receive the duplicate, you can proceed with your car donation.

5. Determine the tax deductibility of your donation. If you’re not sure of how to handle the tax deductions, access the IRS publication “A Donor’s Guide to Vehicle Donations.” It’s readily available on the IRS website.

6. Arrange pickup. Many Massachusetts charities will arrange pickup at a time convenient for you.

Resources

• A Donor’s Guide to Vehicle Donations
• Donating a Car to Charity