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Other Ways to Contribute


Vehicle Donation


Volunteer





Thinking about selling your car, boat, motorcycle, truck, or other vehicle? Donate it to WHYY instead!

Take part in the WHYY Vehicle Donation Program and support the television and radio programs you love, and receive a tax deduction when you itemize your return.


Here's How it Works

All you need is a clear title, and we'll take care of the rest, including pick-up, at no cost to you. Once your vehicle has been sold, you'll be sent a receipt for your tax records, and the sale proceeds will be donated to WHYY in your name, and you'll receive a one-year membership to WHYY.


To learn more about this exciting new program, call 1-888 WHYY-CAR (949-9227).






Does my car have to be running to qualify for donation?
In some cases we can take your car running or not, However it must have an engine and be tow-able. Call 1-888 WHYY-CAR (949-9227) and talk to one of our representatives to find out if your vehicle qualifies for pick-up.


What paperwork do I need?
The only paperwork needed is a signed, clear title. Have your title with you when you call-in your donation. (Please note: a clear title indicates the title is in the name of the donor without a lien.)


What if I lost the title?
You will need to get an Application for Duplicate Title form from your state DMV and have your state DMV process for a duplicate. We will need the duplicate title to complete the donation process.


Do I need a smog certificate in order to donate my car?
For states that require smog certificates or safety inspections, you may donate your vehicle without these documents.


How quickly can my vehicle be picked up?
We make donating your car as simple and convenient as possible. A tow company will contact you within two to three business days. Call our representatives at 1-888 WHYY-CAR (949-9227) to get started.


Do I have to be with the vehicle at the time of pick-up?
No. Special arrangements can be made by calling 1-888 WHYY-CAR (949-9227) and speaking to one of our representatives.


Do I pay for the towing?
No, there is no charge to you for the towing.


How is the value determined on the vehicle donated?
The value is determined by the gross proceeds raised from the sale of the donated vehicle. You no longer have the burden of determining the value yourself.


Do I get a receipt for my donation?
Yes, our driver will issue a receipt at the time of pick-up. This is not your final tax receipt unless the sale of your vehicle does not exceed $500.00. This initial acknowledgement will indicate your name, the year, make and model and the condition of the vehicle you are donating. It will be your only receipt if your vehicle sells for less than $500.00.


What can I claim as a deduction?
According to the tax law effective January 1, 2005, if the claimed value of the donated vehicle exceeds $500, the taxpayer is limited to the gross proceeds of the sale.


An IRS Form 1098-C, Contribution of Motor Vehicles, Boats and Airplanes will be mailed to you within 30 days of the sale stating the amount of gross proceeds received from your car, provided your vehicle sold for more than $500.00. This will be your tax receipt for your charitable donation.


What if my car is valued over $5000?
Effective January 1, 2005, you will no longer be required to have vehicles appraised. The value you may claim will be the amount of gross proceeds received from your vehicle. That amount will be noted on the final acknowledgement you will receive after your car is sold.


Do you only accept cars for donation?
Many types of motor vehicles are accepted including boats, motorcycles, trucks, and cars. If you are uncertain as to whether or not your vehicle is eligible, please contact the WHYY vehicle donation program toll free at 1-888 WHYY-CAR (949-9227).


What does WHYY do with donated vehicles?
The vehicles are sold at a private auction. The funds from vehicle donations are used by WHYY to support and produce quality educational and entertainment programs as well as to support our outreach efforts in our community.


Do I need to have my vehicle appraised?
You are not required to have vehicles appraised.


Do I become a WHYY member by donating my car?
You will become a member after your car is sold at auction and proceeds are credited to WHYY. It will take approximately six weeks to process your membership from the time you receive notice that your car has sold at auction.


I donated my vehicle several weeks ago and I have not heard what it sold for. How can I find out? I need the information for my tax return.
Call our representatives at 1-888 WHYY-CAR (949-9227) and they will be able to update you on where your vehicle is in the selling process. Keep in mind that the entire auction process and paperwork completion could take several weeks. But a phone call to our representatives will provide you the information you need, especially at tax time.


What are the benefits of donating my car to WHYY?
WHYY benefits by receiving a cash donation to fund new and current programs as well as allowing us to continue the great tradition of bringing our audience the best Public Broadcasting has to offer.


You benefit by being able to reduce your taxable income when taxes are itemized. Plus you avoid the costs associated with selling your car. No need to pay for advertising, no loss of privacy and possible security risk, and no need to pay for vehicle registration, insurance, and repairs to keep your car in running condition while you wait for a buyer.