Vehicle Donation FAQ
Does my car have to be running to qualify for donation?
No, the car must have an engine and be towable. Cars that are in extremely poor condition or far from our tow range may be declined, as the cost to tow them may be more than the value of the vehicle. Call our representative to find out if your vehicle qualifies.
What paperwork do I need?
The only paperwork needed is a signed title. (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 a duplicate title and call us when you have received it.
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. The initial acknowledgement will indicate your name, the year, make, model and the condition of the vehicle you are donating.
A final acknowledgement with our Federal ID # will be mailed to you within 30 days of the sale stating the amount of gross proceeds received from your vehicle. This will be your receipt for your charitable contribution.
Donors will be allowed to take the amount for which the vehicle sold. You will be sent a letter with this amount when the vehicle sells.
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.
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.
What happens to my donated vehicles?
The vehicles are sold at a private auction. The funds from vehicle are donated to the Walla Walla Symphony.
How quickly can my vehicle be picked up?
Vehicles are picked up at a time that is convenient for you. Call our representative to find out what times are available in your neighborhood.
Why does CARS need Social Security Numbers?
It is required for tax receipt if the car is valued over $500. If the donor does not wish to give their social security number they can only deduct a maximum of $500. The number is encrypted in the CARS system.
Tax receipt and acknowledgement over $500:
- Donor will get an acknowledgement and Tax Form 1098c from CARS on behalf of the Walla Walla Symphony
Acknowledgement under $500:
- Donor will get acknowledgement from CARS on behalf of the Walla Walla Symphony. Donor can use Tow Receipt or acknowledgement from CARS for tax purposes.
What if the tow truck driver didn't leave a receipt?
If the tow truck driver does not leave a receipt, CARS will mail a receipt to the registered address.
Do I have to be with the vehicle at the time of pick-up?
No. Special arrangements can be made by calling our representative at 877-537-5277.
For more information about this program, please call Perry Jones at 509.529.8020 or contact him via e-mail him at perry@wwsymphony.org.