FAQs

A. There are several reasons to donate your car to Goodwill, including convenience, a significant tax deduction and knowing that you are helping to provide job training and employment programs for community members who are disadvantaged or disabled. To learn more about what Goodwill does with the proceeds of your vehicle, please click here.

In addition to helping out your community, the car donation process is fast and easy for you! You don’t have to haggle with car salesman over trade-in values or worry about posting ads online and having strangers at your home to show your car. We pick up and tow your vehicle donation (for free) and provide you with the documentation you will need to take a top tax deduction.

A. We begin with a thorough assessment of your donated vehicle. Then, the bulk of our donated vehicles are sold at Capital Auto Auction. The proceeds from your vehicle’s sale funds the transformation of lives and your local community through the power of education and employment.

A. Generally, you need the title to your vehicle. If you can’t find the title or if you’re not sure about your state’s requirements, please call us at 866-233-8586 and our friendly title clerks will be happy to help you.

A. No, you don’t pay a cent! Pickup and towing of your vehicle is absolutely free for you.

A. We accept vehicle donations from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC.

A. Yes, you can deduct the sale price of your vehicle or its fair market value if you itemize your deductions. After your vehicle is sold, we send you a sales receipt or IRS form to use when you file your taxes.

A. If your vehicle sells for less than $500, its value for tax purposes is the selling price or the fair market value up to $500. If we get more than $500 for your vehicle, then its value is the selling price. Rest assured that we strive to get the maximum sale price — for everyone’s benefit.

A. Of course. Please feel free to call us at 866-233-8586 with any questions.

A. We accept donations of cars and trucks, boats and other watercraft, RVs and campers, specialty vehicles and fleet vehicles. Be sure and check out our Accepted Vehicles page here.

A. No, we accept most vehicles, whether they are running or not. Fill out our donation form or call us at 866-233-8586 with the vehicle’s information, and we’ll let you know if we can accept it. We may not accept a vehicle if we believe that its value won’t cover the cost of towing — but this happens very rarely.

A. No problem! We accept vehicles that have failed emissions testing.

A. No, we can’t accept an abandoned car because we require proof of ownership in order to sell the vehicle. If you find an abandoned car, please notify your local police.

A. Yes. To donate a vehicle whose previous owner has died, please give us a call at 866-233-8586 and we’ll walk you through the process.

A. After we accept your vehicle for donation, we contact a local towing service. Shortly afterward, the towing company calls you directly to arrange a pickup time that is convenient for you. If you have any questions prior to pickup, please call us at 866-233-8586.

A. A professional towing company in your city picks up your vehicle at your convenience.

A. We can’t give you an exact length of time, but vehicles are usually picked up within a couple of business days. Please let us know if you need your vehicle to be picked up sooner than that, and we’ll do our best to help you.

A. No, you don’t need to be present, but please let the towing company know where in the vehicle your keys and title can be found. And please remember to remove your personal belongings!

A. The towing company will tow vehicles from almost any location. Please let the towing company know where you want your vehicle to be picked up.

A. The towing company will give you a donation receipt showing that the vehicle was picked up and releasing you from all liability from that point forward. Make sure to contact your local DMV to de-register your vehicle, dispose of your license plates properly, and be sure to call your insurance agent to cancel your coverage.

A. Generally, you need to sign your title over, however each state’s requirements are a bit different. If you can’t find your title or if you’re not sure about your state’s requirements, please give us a call at 866-233-8586. We’re happy to assist you.

A. It depends. Some states require removal of the plates before your vehicle is towed away, while in other states, the plates can remain on the car. Please check your state’s requirements or call us at 866-233-8586 for assistance.

A. No, not at all. You are no longer liable for the vehicle from the day we pick it up.

A. Our insurance coverage applies to the vehicle once it is picked up.