Car Donation

Here’s how it works:

• To donate now, click here or call toll-free (877) 709-WISH to speak to a Wheels for Wishes representative. The representative will schedule a pickup time that’s convenient for you, and provide you with confirmation of your donation.
• If the gross proceeds from the sale of your donated vehicle are $500 or more and you provide your social security number to the representative at the time of your donation, you will also receive an IRS tax form 1098-C stating the sale price of the vehicle. This amount is what you actually claim on the itemized tax return.
• According to the tax law effective January 1, 2005, if the claimed value of the donated vehicle exceeds $500, the tax benefit is limited to the gross proceeds of the sale.

What are the benefits of donating my car to Make-A-Wish?
Make-A-Wish Southern Florida will receive a cash donation that will be used to support our wish-granting mission: Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. You benefit by being able to reduce your taxable income when taxes are itemized. Plus you avoid the costs associated with selling your car. No need to pay for advertising, no loss of privacy and possible security risk, and no need to pay for vehicle registration, insurance, and repairs to keep your car in running condition while you wait for a buyer.

Does my car have to be running to be donated?
No. Your car can be donated whether it is running or not.

Do you only accept cars for donation?
Many types of motor vehicles are accepted including boats, motorcycles, trucks and cars, motor homes, airplanes, time-shares and even houses. If you are uncertain as to whether or not your vehicle is eligible, please contact Wheels For Wishes at (877) 709-WISH.

How long will it take to pick up my vehicle?
We make donating your car as simple and convenient as possible. Most pickups can be scheduled within 24 to 72 hours.

Do I have to be with the vehicle at the time of pick-up?
No. Special arrangements can be made by calling Wheels For Wishes.

Do I need the title?
No. In most cases, you can donate your vehicle without having the title.

Do I need a smog certificate in order to donate my car?
For states that require smog certificates or safety inspections, you may donate your vehicle without these documents.

Will I get a tax receipt for my donation?
Yes. You will receive an IRS Form 1098-C in the event that the sale of the vehicle exceeds $500. If the vehicle does not exceed $500, the thank you letter that you will receive can be used as a tax receipt.

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.  An IRS Form 1098-C, “Contributions of Motor Vehicles, Boats, and Airplanes” will be mailed to you within 30 days of the sale stating the amount of gross proceeds received from your car, provided your vehicle sold for more than $500 and you have submitted your social security number. This will be your tax receipt for your charitable contribution.

How is the value determined on the vehicle donated?
The value is determined by the gross proceeds raised from the sale of the donated vehicle.

What if my car is valued over $5,000?
Effective January 1, 2005, you are no longer required to have your vehicle appraised. The value you may claim will be the amount of gross proceeds received from your vehicle.

If I have questions, can I contact someone at Make-A-Wish?
Yes. You can contact Jessica Rivera, Community Development Coordinator, at (954) 967-9474 ext. 321 or [email protected].