We realize that donating a vehicle can bring about a range of emotions, including skepticism. It's completely natural to wonder what really happens to your car once you choose to donate. At Drive to Give, we believe that transparency should be the norm, and we’re committed to providing you with a detailed look at our car donation process.
This page outlines the complete journey your vehicle takes after donation, from pickup through auction and finally to the tax receipt in your hand. By understanding each step, we hope to alleviate any concerns you may have and affirm our dedication to ethical practices and meaningful community impact.
✓Key facts you can verify
- Drive to Give is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity.
- Vehicles sold at auction provide donors with a gross-proceeds deduction.
- Donors can claim the actual sale price of their vehicle on the 1098-C.
- Vehicles used for program purposes qualify for a fair market value deduction.
- All donations are subject to IRS guidelines and oversight.
- Drive to Give maintains transparency through public financial reporting.
- We are listed on Charity Navigator as a verified charity organization.
- Donors receive their 1098-C receipt within 30 days of the vehicle's sale.
How it works, step by step
Pickup (Day 0)
Once you schedule a pickup, our team will arrive at your location to collect your vehicle. This is the first step in ensuring your donation begins its journey towards making a difference.
Transport to Auction Lot (Days 0-5)
After pickup, your vehicle is transported to our secure auction lot where it will be stored safely while we prepare it for inspection and sale.
Inspection + Title Verification (Days 3-10)
Within a few days, your vehicle undergoes an inspection and title verification process to ensure all legal requirements are met before it is listed for auction.
Auction Listing (Days 7-21)
Once inspected, your vehicle will be listed on auction platforms, allowing potential buyers to see the vehicle and place bids in a competitive marketplace.
Sale (Days 14-45)
The auction process typically runs for a two-week period, although final sales can take up to 45 days depending on demand and bidding activity.
Proceeds Distribution (Days 30-60)
After the sale, proceeds are calculated and distributed. This timing allows for all financial processes to be finalized effectively.
1098-C Receipt Mailed (Days 30-60)
You will receive your 1098-C tax receipt within 30 days of the vehicle’s sale, allowing you to claim your donation on your tax return in the following fiscal year.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS Pub 78 Lookup
How: You can verify our nonprofit status and eligibility for tax-deductible donations by checking the IRS Pub 78 database, which lists registered charities.
✓ Charity Navigator Search
How: Visit Charity Navigator to view our rating, financial health, and overall transparency. This independent review can provide assurance about our charity status.
✓ Attorney General Registry
How: Check with the North Carolina Attorney General's office for compliance information about Drive to Give, ensuring we’re following state regulations and maintaining good standing.
✓ Form 990 Retrieval
How: Our Form 990 is publicly available and offers insight into our finances, governance, and programs. You can access this form through various nonprofit databases online.
✓ Better Business Bureau (BBB)
How: Look us up on the BBB website to read reviews and complaints, verifying our commitment to ethical practices and donor satisfaction.
Real impact, real numbers
Your donation has the potential to change lives. For example, in 2022, Drive to Give utilized funds from vehicle sales to provide over 500 rides to those in need in Charlotte, helping individuals access vital services like medical appointments and job interviews. With an average proceed of $1,200 per vehicle, your donation can have a significant impact on our community.
Charlotte oversight
In Charlotte, Drive to Give is committed to transparency and accountability. As a registered charity in North Carolina, we adhere to strict oversight from the state’s charity registrar. If you have any concerns, you can file complaints with the North Carolina Attorney General’s office, which manages charity operations. Additionally, local consumer protection resources are available to address any questions about charitable giving.