What Do I Need to Donate My Vehicle?
Not only do you get personal satisfaction from donating a vehicle to a worthy charity, you can also use the donation as a tax deduction. When you've found a 501(c)(3)-designated charitable organization, the receipt from the donation can be used when you file yearly income taxes. Before you can get to that step though, various forms of paperwork are required to donate, which varies by state and charity.
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Vehicle Title
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All states and charities require the vehicle title to accept the donation. If you can't find the title for your vehicle, contact the local department of motor vehicles to file for a replacement title. Once you have the replacement, you are free to give it to the charity along with your vehicle. Most states require only the vehicle title for donations, including Arizona, Georgia, North Dakota and Virginia. Other states may require additional paperwork.
Notice of Transfer of Ownership
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Once you have given your car to a charity, the DMV needs to be notified of the sale to transfer the title to the new owner. In states that require only the vehicle title for charitable donations, the transfer of ownership paperwork is handled by the charity. However, some states require the former owner to turn this paperwork into the DMV instead. If you're donating your car in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah or Washington, you will need to turn in the Notice of Transfer of Ownership yourself. You will receive this paperwork from the charity once you've given them your car. This paperwork is also sometimes called a Report of Sale, Statement of Transaction or Bill of Sale.
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Damage Disclosure Statement
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The Damage Disclosure Statement shows all of the damage to the vehicle under your care. While no states require this document with a charitable donation, some charities request this with the vehicle. Look for a Damage Disclosure Statement from your state's DMV. Indicate whether the car was salvaged, in a flood or was in a theft. List the damage and if the car has been reconstructed. Give the statement to the charity so it knows the exact quality of the car.
Odometer Disclosure Statement
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Though Kentucky is the only state to require an Odometer Disclosure Statement, charities in other states may request this as well. The Odometer Disclosure Statement lists the make, year and model of the car along with the vehicle identification number and odometer reading. Fill out the form honestly and give it to the charity upon its request.
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