If you want to give your old car to charity but you’ve been putting it off because the process seems daunting, you may be surprised at how streamlined and convenient donating your car can be. Participating charities in Rockville, MD, will take care of everything for you, including towing the vehicle and all the paperwork. To make it even easier, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know before you donate.
How to Protect Yourself When Donating a Car
Deciding to give your car to charity is generally safe! But there are a few charities that may seem too good to be true, and you want to ensure that you protect yourself from being held liable if anything goes wrong with your car after you give it away. Read the following top three tips on how to do that:
- Remove your car’s license plates before donation
- Ask the charity for a receipt of sale
- File a transfer form
Where to Donate a Car in Maryland
To ensure smooth sailing, you’ll want to find a reputable charity that can handle the donation process for you. There is an excellent database called GuideStar, which you can use to search for non-profits near you. Or, if you’re keen on donating to non-profits with a particular focus, we’ve compiled some ideas for you.
Kars 4 Kids supports Jewish children and their families and can tow away your vehicle within a day or two. Vehicles for Veterans handles all the paperwork. The Humane Society of the United States ensures that the proceeds from your car aid in preventing animal cruelty, and Wheels for Wishes donates the money from the sale of your vehicle (or parts) to the Make a Wish Foundation. This organization helps critically-ill children realize their dreams.
What Is Needed Before Donation
Gather the following information about your car:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Make and model
- Odometer reading
- Market value (for tax claim purposes)
- Signed title
Having all of this information handy will make everything easier as you navigate donating your vehicle or vehicle parts and scraps.
How to Correctly Transfer Ownership in Rockville, MD
First, ensure the charity is licensed as a Maryland wholesale dealer. They cannot sell your car to a retail buyer. Next, fill in the charity’s name and address under the “Assignment of Ownership” section. Some charities ask you to leave the new owner’s information blank, but this could affect your tax deduction. Remove the license plates of your car and return them to the MVA.
We hope this blog from us at DARCARS Nissan of Rockville helps your donating process! Want to check out more Maryland-related blogs? We have you covered! Learn about ways to get better gas mileage or our top summer travel tips today!
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