What do you do with a car that doesn't run? Pay to have it towed to a junkyard? Try to sell it to someone who's looking for a “project” car? There's a better solution: You can donate it to charity.
Donating a car that doesn't run to charity can make a positive impact on the lives of others. At Rawhide, most of our vehicles go to auction, and others we refurbish and sell. We use the funds to support our programs and services for at-risk teens. Our goal is to help young people overcome challenges and to equip them with the life skills they need to live happy, fulfilling lives.
Read on to learn about the benefits of donating your vehicle to charity. And when you're ready, you can start the donation process online!
Why Donate a Vehicle That Doesn't Work?
If your car doesn't run, it probably doesn't have much value to you, but it does to Rawhide's youth. To you, it may just be a hunk of metal and plastic—a broken machine—that is taking up space in your garage. But to an at-risk youth struggling with suicide ideation, depression, or anxiety, it's a second chance at life.
Rawhide will accept your car donation, and through our incredible, life-changing programs and services, we will turn it into an education, therapy sessions, a safe living environment, and more!
So make a car donation to Rawhide today and tell your loved ones to do the same. Your generous donations will transform lives and help teens become successful adults in their communities.
Your donation supports a cause
Donating a car that doesn’t run will provide the necessary funds to benefit Rawhide’s at-risk youth, as well as improve your community down the road. About 35% of Rawhide funds come from these generous donations each year. Plus, you will get the benefit of removing a broken-down car from your property!
Your vehicle donation makes a positive impact on the community, with 100% of donations staying in Wisconsin.
Environmental benefits
Giving vehicles new life reduces waste and preserves resources. Recycling vehicles supports environmental sustainability by processing end-of-life vehicles, reducing landfill waste, and lowering carbon emissions through the steel recycling process.
Most charities will retrieve your non-working vehicle
When you make a car donation, Rawhide offers an easy, convenient donation process that includes free pickup or drop-off at a location near you. The donated vehicles are inspected and repaired by qualified automotive technicians. The vehicles are then sold at dealer auto auction facilities or on our eBay site.
Because of Rawhide's thorough inspection and repair process, buyers get higher-quality vehicles at a better price than they would buy from anywhere else—and the funds raised from sold vehicles keep Rawhide's programs and services running.
Your non-running car donation can be a great tax deduction
Donating your car to charity can result in significant tax savings from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) if you include it in your charitable contribution deduction. The maximum deduction you can claim is the price the charity sold the car for, even if you determine the car’s fair market value was higher. (You can gauge market value from a reputable used-car price guide, such as Kelley Blue Book). The charity will provide a tax-deductible receipt so you can claim the deduction on your taxes. If your car donation deduction is more than $500, you will need to fill out Form 8283.
Note: A tax advisor can review your personal tax deduction situation, help you understand the specific tax implications, and maximize the tax benefits.
What Type of Vehicle Can I Donate?
Rawhide always accepts motorized vehicles such as cars, trucks, and vans with four tires and a clear title. However, other types of vehicles may be accepted on a case-by-case basis, depending on where you live and the vehicle’s condition.
Rawhide accepts the following vehicles, which must be located within the state of Wisconsin:
- Boats with road-worthy trailers
- Jet skis
- Motorcycles
- Mopeds/scooters
- Snowmobiles
- ATVs
- Garden/lawn tractors
- Go-karts
- Campers
- RVs (must be drivable to New London)
- Dune buggies
- Heavy equipment
- Tractor-trailers
- Fire trucks
- Semis
Rawhide is the only car donation program in Wisconsin that evaluates and inspects vehicles before they are resold.
Options to Consider for Donated Vehicles
Donating a vehicle to a charitable organization can be a rewarding experience, offering both personal satisfaction and financial benefits. Here are a few things to consider when looking for vehicle donation services.
Online vs. in-person donations
When deciding between online and in-person donations, consider the convenience and flexibility of each option. Online donations can be made at any time, providing a fast and efficient way to donate your vehicle. In-person donations offer the opportunity to engage directly with the organization, receiving immediate assistance and support. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference and the level of interaction you desire.
Choosing the best vehicle donation programs
It’s crucial to ensure your donation is managed by a reputable and trustworthy organization, such as a rated vehicle donation program, to maximize your tax deduction and support local families. Donated vehicles can make a significant impact on the community, so choose an organization that makes the vehicle donation process easy, aligns with your values, and provides a fair market value for your donated vehicle.
The Donation Process: How to Donate a Car That Doesn't Run
If you have a vehicle that doesn't run and is collecting dust in your garage or driveway, it may be time to finally part ways. Donating a non-running car is easy—especially with Rawhide's hassle-free, convenient process! Just follow these steps to donate your used vehicle today:
- Tell us about your vehicle. Fill out the brief used vehicle donation form or call us at 1-800-RAWHIDE to share your vehicle information. Our Vehicle Program representatives are available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday to assist you with the process or answer any questions you may have about your vehicle donation.
- Plan your pick-up or drop-off. One of our vehicle donor support representatives will contact you to schedule a pickup time with one of our partnered haulers. Or you can drop off your used vehicle at one of our 200 Donor Service Center (DSC) locations near you. Rawhide is a proud partner of Wisconsin's Auto & Truck Dealers Association (WATDA).
- Get your tax receipt. To show proof of your donation, we'll send you a receipt for your tax deduction after your vehicle arrives. Be sure to include this tax-deductible receipt with your annual taxes for a possible tax deduction.
- Enjoy the good feeling of making a positive impact! Your donation will help Wisconsin's troubled youth learn new skills and find new meaning in life.
Why Donating a Vehicle to Rawhide's Vehicle Donation Program Matters
Your car donation helps transform young lives.
At Rawhide, we help hurting and troubled youth get a second chance at life. Your generous vehicle donation provides the funds for us to support our programs and services, ensuring we can provide our youth with the best possible care—always.
Many of the youth who come to Rawhide are in real danger—from themselves, others around them, or because of their living situations. Your support does more than help them find peace or stability. Your donation saves lives.
Are You Ready to Donate Your Car—and Make a Difference?
You may think that your non-running car has little to no value. But when that donated vehicle sells, the sales price goes toward services for at-risk youth, offering a second chance at life.
You can make a big impact in the lives of Wisconsin’s at-risk youth by donating your non-running car to Rawhide today. Your donation will help fund the programs and services that help at-risk teens learn new skills, find purpose, and grow into happy and successful adults. Your non-working vehicle will be a welcome donation that makes a significant impact.
If you have any additional questions about donating a vehicle, visit our FAQ page for more details!
