Car Donation Program

A wonderful and easy way to support Jewish Family Service is through the car donation program. If you are disposing of your present vehicle, don't trade it, donate it to Jewish Family Service. You get a full tax deduction for the fair market value of your auto and Jewish Family Service gets the funds to support our many programs and services.

Newer cars in any condition and older cars, 1992 and prior models in running condition, will be accepted. All you need to do is dial 877-537-4227 and all the arrangements will be made for you, including pick-up of your vehicle. It's a WIN-WIN situation for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions for Car Donations

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 (pink slip). Our driver will provide you with a Release of Liability which must be completed by the donor and mailed to the DMV within 5 business days of donation.

What if I lost the title (pink slip)?
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 ackowledgement 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.

After January 1, 2005, 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 $500?
Effective January 1, 2005, you will no longer be required to have vehicles appraised. The value you may claim will be the amount of the gross proceeds received from your vehicle.

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

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.

Do I have to be with the vehicle at the time of pick-up?
No, special arrangements can be made by calling our representative.