How to Donate a Car in San Mateo, California
San Mateo residents can turn an old car into cash that supports a range of human and social services organizations. The cash goes to San Mateo County or Bay Area chapters of the organizations, directly supporting the community. If you can't handle the time commitment of selling an old car yourself, or if you've got a clunker, this is a good way to get rid of the car and do some good in the meantime. Donating to a 501(c)3 organization means you're entitled to a tax deduction for your gift.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Browse the donation options available for San Mateo country residents at RecycleWorks (see Resources). Choose from donating to organizations that support youth services, disability, animal welfare or social services. Some options include the the San Mateo chapter of the American Cancer Society and the local Boys and Girls Club.
-
2
Contact the charity of your choice to find out how to prepare your vehicle for donation and where to obtain the donor form (this is typically online). Some places -- like Goodwill Industries -- prefer you to drop off the vehicle, though they can pick it up.
If you're planning on dropping off the vehicle yourself, discuss this with the charity representative. Set a date to do so and confirm details with the charity representative so you know what to do, and when. Otherwise it's assumed you need a tow. Choose the method (drop-off or tow) that works best for you.
-
-
3
Complete the donation form. List information about your car, its condition and its VIN number. Provide personal information, which the charity needs so they can prepare the tax receipt and so someone can contact you about the donation process. Do this whether you're dropping off or getting a tow.
-
4
Clean out the car so it's ready for donation. Locate your car's title, which you'll need to transfer along with the car.
-
5
Wait to be contacted by a tow company representative to arrange a time to tow your vehicle. Schedule a tow. This is free to you, but the charity pays. If you car is in good working condition, ask the tow company whether you can drop it off directly at the charity, then plan to do so.
-
6
Greet the tow driver. Hand over the keys and title -- he will deliver them to the charity or the charity's auction house, along with your car keys and title -- and supervise the tow.
If you're dropping off the car yourself, deliver it to the pre-arranged drop-off location on the set date and give the keys and title to a representative of the charity. Obtain a receipt in return that says you gave them the car.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
You'll receive a tax receipt within 30 days after donating your car.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
