Goodwill Vehicle Donations is currently accepting vehicle donations. Your health and safety are of utmost importance to us. To donate, call 866-233-8586 or fill out the form below. To learn what actions we are taking to ensure you are protected when you donate a vehicle to Goodwill Vehicle Donations, please click here.

FAQs

GENERAL INFORMATION

Q. Why should I donate my vehicle to Goodwill?

A. There are several reasons to donate your car to Goodwill, including convenience, a significant tax deduction and knowing that you are helping to provide job training and employment programs for community members who are disadvantaged or disabled. To learn more about what Goodwill does with the proceeds of your vehicle, please click here.

In addition to helping out your community, the car donation process is fast and easy for you! You don’t have to haggle with car salesman over trade-in values or worry about posting ads online and having strangers at your home to show your car. We pick up and tow your vehicle donation (for free) and provide you with the documentation you will need to take a top tax deduction.

Q. What do you do with my vehicle?

A. We begin with a thorough assessment of your donated vehicle. Then, the bulk of our donated vehicles are sold at Capital Auto Auction. The proceeds from your vehicle’s sale funds the transformation of lives and your local community through the power of education and employment.

Q. What kind of paperwork do I need to donate a vehicle?

A. Generally, you need the title to your vehicle. If you can’t find the title or if you’re not sure about your state’s requirements, please call us at 866-233-8586 and our friendly title clerks will be happy to help you.

Q. Are there any costs to me?

A. No, you don’t pay a cent! Pickup and towing of your vehicle is absolutely free for you.

Q. What states do you accept vehicle donations from?

A. We accept vehicle donations from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC.

Q. Is my donation tax deductible?

A. Yes, you can deduct the sale price of your vehicle or its fair market value if you itemize your deductions. After your vehicle is sold, we send you a sales receipt or IRS form to use when you file your taxes.

Q. How is the value of my vehicle determined?

A. If your vehicle sells for less than $500, its value for tax purposes is the selling price or the fair market value up to $500. If we get more than $500 for your vehicle, then its value is the selling price. Rest assured that we strive to get the maximum sale price — for everyone’s benefit.

Q. Can I check on the status of my donation?

A. Of course. Please feel free to call us at 866-233-8586 with any questions.

ACCEPTED VEHICLES

Q. What kinds of vehicle can be donated?

A. We accept donations of cars and trucks, boats and other watercraft, RVs and campers, specialty vehicles and fleet vehicles. Be sure and check out our Accepted Vehicles page here.

Q. Does my vehicle have to be running?

A. No, we accept most vehicles, whether they are running or not. Fill out our donation form or call us at 866-233-8586 with the vehicle’s information, and we’ll let you know if we can accept it. We may not accept a vehicle if we believe that its value won’t cover the cost of towing — but this happens very rarely.

Q. What if my car didn’t pass the state emissions test?

A. No problem! We accept vehicles that have failed emissions testing.

Q. Can I donate an abandoned car?

A. No, we can’t accept an abandoned car because we require proof of ownership in order to sell the vehicle. If you find an abandoned car, please notify your local police.

Q. Can I donate a vehicle that I inherited?

A. Yes. To donate a vehicle whose previous owner has died, please give us a call at 866-233-8586 and we’ll walk you through the process.

PICKUP AND TOWING

Q. How do I schedule a pickup?

A. After we accept your vehicle for donation, we contact a local towing service. Shortly afterward, the towing company calls you directly to arrange a pickup time that is convenient for you. If you have any questions prior to pickup, please call us at 866-233-8586.

Q. Who picks up my vehicle?

A. A professional towing company in your city picks up your vehicle at your convenience.

Q. How long does it take for my vehicle to be picked up?

A. We can’t give you an exact length of time, but vehicles are usually picked up within a couple of business days. Please let us know if you need your vehicle to be picked up sooner than that, and we’ll do our best to help you.

Q. Do I need to be home when my vehicle is picked up?

A. No, you don’t need to be present, but please let the towing company know where in the vehicle your keys and title can be found. And please remember to remove your personal belongings!

Q. Does my vehicle need to be at my home or can it be picked up from another location?

A. The towing company will tow vehicles from almost any location. Please let the towing company know where you want your vehicle to be picked up.

Q. What happens after pickup?

A. The towing company will give you a donation receipt showing that the vehicle was picked up and releasing you from all liability from that point forward. Make sure to contact your local DMV to de-register your vehicle, dispose of your license plates properly, and be sure to call your insurance agent to cancel your coverage.

TITLE AND REGISTRATION

Q. How do I transfer ownership to Goodwill?

A. Generally, you need to sign your title over, however each state’s requirements are a bit different. If you can’t find your title or if you’re not sure about your state’s requirements, please give us a call at 866-233-8586. We’re happy to assist you.

Q. Do I need to remove the license plate?

A. It depends. Some states require removal of the plates before your vehicle is towed away, while in other states, the plates can remain on the car. Please check your state’s requirements or call us at 866-233-8586 for assistance.

Q. I no longer bother to insure my vehicle; is that a problem?

A. No, not at all. You are no longer liable for the vehicle from the day we pick it up.

Q. Who is responsible for liability during the donation process?

A. Our insurance coverage applies to the vehicle once it is picked up.

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