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5 Reliable Car Donation Charities
Choosing among car donation charities can be confusing and difficult because it can be hard to determine whether or not they are reliable and reputable. There are scores of companies and organizations nationwide to choose from, some are true non-profit organizations, others are middlemen that coordinate your car donation with the charity of your choosing but keep a percentage of the proceeds. Working directly with the charity is preferred, since that ensures the proceeds from your donated car goes straight into the hands of the charity. If you’re looking to deduct your car donation on your annual income taxes, be sure that the organization has 501(c)(3) status. Other organizations may be able to claim non-profit status, however they may be civic groups with political affiliations and can lobby the government. Donations to these non-profits are not tax deductible.
The five charities listed below are examples of established and reliable car donation charities that are 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations.
Goodwill Industries – A car donation to Goodwill will either be used as part of the Wheels to Work program or be sold. The proceeds from the sale of the vehicle will be used to fund various programs Goodwill conducts, such as job training and employment placement.
American Red Cross – The American Red Cross has local chapters that have programs for vehicle donation. Locate a local American Red Cross chapter from the charity’s website to coordinate your donation.
National Kidney Foundation– The NKF has been a popular charity for car donation. Termed ‘kidney cars’, donated vehicles are fixed up for use or sale, or sold for scrap with the proceeds benefiting kidney disease research.
The Salvation Army – Arrangements for car donation to The Salvation Army can be done by calling their toll free number, 1-888-999-ARMY. Representatives will connect you with a local chapter to coordinate your donation. The proceeds from the sale of your car will be used for community programs in the area.
American Cancer Society – Through their Cars for a Cure program, the American Cancer Society provides an easy way to donate your car to their charity and help in the fight against cancer.
