Vehicle Donation FAQs
What type of vehicles do you accept as donations?
We accept most cars, trucks, vans, fleet vehicles, trailers, boats, motorcycles, and RV’s. For questions about what you can donate, email us or call toll-free at (888)949.9427 (888-WHYY-427).
Is my car donation tax deductible?
Vehicles donated will benefit WHYY, a nonprofit classified with the IRS as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and are tax deductible. For more information, you can check out the Donor’s Guide to Vehicle Donations.
What paperwork will I need for the DMV?
We will need a signed, clear title, free of all liens. If there is a lien listed on the front of the title, please include the original lien release. If you do not have a title, please call our vehicle donation department at (888)949.9427 (888-WHYY-427). Our title specialists can usually help obtain a duplicate title from your local motor vehicle department.
What if I lost the title?
Please call our vehicle donation department at (888)949.9427 (888-WHYY-427). Our title specialists can usually help obtain a duplicate title from your local motor vehicle department.
What does WHYY do with the vehicles?
The vehicles are sold at private auction. The proceeds are used to help support WHYY. Funds from vehicle donations help WHYY acquire and produce quality educational and entertainment programs and support our outreach efforts in the community.
Is my contribution still deductible under the new tax laws?
Under the tax law* effective in 2005, if you itemize your tax return you may deduct the sale value of your donated vehicle or the fair market value up to $500, whichever is greater. You can find more information on charitable vehicle donation tax deductions here. Since each donor’s tax situation is different, we recommend that you consult your tax professional.
Do I get a receipt for my donation which shows how much money my car raised for WHYY?
A receipt will be sent to you approximately 30 days after your vehicle has been sold. If you itemize your taxes, you may be able to deduct the fair market value of your vehicle up to $500, or the actual selling price, whichever is greater. If your vehicle sells for more than $500, we are required by IRS law to report your donation using your tax identification number. You will be receiving correspondence from us requesting this information if needed, within 30 days from when your donated vehicle sells.
Can I value my vehicle before I donate it to WHYY?
Many factors can contribute to the final selling price of any vehicle, including the make, model and year of your car, along with any mechanical or physical damage to the vehicle that could affect its value. WHYY’s vehicle donation representatives cannot guarantee the final selling price, which is your charitable contribution to WHYY.
My car hasn’t run in years. Can I still donate it?
Yes! We accept vehicle donations of all conditions with proof of ownership.
I donated my car several weeks ago but have not received my complimentary membership. When should I expect to receive it?
Often it takes four weeks from the moment your vehicle is picked up to the time WHYY receives notification of your donation. Then, it can take another two to four weeks to complete your membership and send it to you. You should receive your new member welcome kit approximately six to eight weeks from the date you donate your vehicle to WHYY.
How will my car be picked up?
We will arrange to have your vehicle towed away as early as the same day your vehicle and title are ready, but no longer than with 2 business days, depending on your location.
How can I schedule a pickup?
Please complete and submit our vehicle donation form or call us at (888)949.9427 (888-WHYY-427).
*Car donation tax laws in effect as of Jan. 1st, 2005
Your vehicle donation is still tax deductible and will fall into one of these categories:
1. For low value vehicle donations, you can claim the fair market value up to $500.00 without any additional paperwork besides the receipt we will provide at the time of the pickup.
2. If you donate a car that is worth more than $500.00, your deduction will be limited to the actual sale price of your car donation. If your vehicle is sold, all proceeds will benefit WHYY, a 501(c)(3) charity. You will be provided with a receipt stating the final sales price of your vehicle within 30 days of the sale of your donated car. We will work to get top dollar for your car donation.