Donating Cars: What You Need To Know

Getting a new car is a very exciting part of life. Even if you are buying a previously used model it is still new to you. You get to finally be done with your old car and have one that is newer, shinier or more dependable. But that brings about an interesting conundrum. What do you do with your old car? Most people trade their cars in for the new one because they do not want to put a large cash down payment. But if your car is much older, you are not going to get much for it on a trade-in. So that leaves you with three options. The first is to sell it yourself but that requires you to make sure it is in running condition so you do not find yourself selling a lemon. The second is to simply keep it in case you need an extra vehicle but that requires you to keep insurance and maintenance up on it. The third option and one you may not immediately think of is car donations. If you are trying to get rid of your old car and want to do something charitable, a car donation is perfect for you. In this article we will go over some of the basic questions and answers you may have. Just think, you will be doing someone else a world of good and be benefiting yourself at the same time.

What are car donations?

A car donation is where you donate your old or used car to a charity rather than try to sell it or trade it in for a new model. There are many charitable organizations that will fix up the car and either gives it to a family in need or they will sell it so that the proceeds go to helping other people or whatever cause they support. Car donations are fantastic ideas because it helps so many people. Some people would not be able to find the work they need so desperately to support their family on if they did not have a vehicle. You get the comfort of knowing you have helped someone else out and you can also get a tax break. Not to mention you get rid of the old car without having to worry about reselling it or trading it in.

Is it better to sell my old car or are car donations more beneficial?

This is a tricky question. Of course it is better if you can afford to donate your car. But that being said many people rely on their old cars to use as trade-ins on new vehicles. Some people just need the cash. A good rule of thumb is to take a look at the Kelly Blue Book value of your car. If it is less than $1000 you should not waste your time trading it in or selling it. It will mean far more to a charity that what you could possible receive. If you have a newer car that is paid off, you may want to sell the car and then split the proceeds with the charity of your choice. This is especially beneficial if the charity you support does not participate in car donations. They could always use a cash donation.

Are there other items I can donate besides cars?

You can donate practically anything. It does not have to be a car. If you have a boat, trailer, all terrain vehicle or even lawnmowers you can find an organization to donate them too. The Salvation Army will take furniture, clothing and even books if they are in good condition. And of course you can always donate the favored item of all charities: your money. So if you have items lying around your house collecting dust or rusting, consider donating them. You will be helping others out and be doing something for a worthwhile cause.

I'm in need of a car and cannot afford to pay for one, am I eligible for a car donation program?

Times can be tough for everyone and you may find yourself in need of a car just to get to work and back or to run simple errands. If you are within the poverty guidelines you may be able to qualify for a free car or pay very little for a car through specific car donations programs. One great charity to look into is 1-800-Charity-Cars. The goal of this organization is to find cars, refurbish them so they are running again and then get them to people that need them.

Related topics about Car donations
Donating Car Parts For a Good Cause
Some charities will accept other car related items as well. Donating car merchandise is certainly an option for those with extra items they no longer want. Tools, decorations, and pretty much anything you can find in a garage is often considered to be worth donating.

Donate A Used Car Program Information
There was a recent program in the United States where you could donate a used car and receive cash back to be used to purchase a newer vehicle. This program was called the Car Allowance Rebate System, also known more informally as "cash for clunkers. It recently ended on August 24th, and has been considered a great success by most of the people involved.

How I Will Donate My Car In Canada
The main difference I discovered when I decided to donate my car in my town, was that the "Cash for Clunkers" programs that both Canada and the States were offering at the time were quite different in terms of how much money you could get for used cars. The US program ended over the summer, but while it was in effect it offered up to $4500 for a used car donation. This is a huge amount when you consider that the Canadian program, which is still running, only offers about $300.