top of page
  • What types of vehicles do you accept?
    We accept cars, trucks, and motorhomes with clear titles. And in certain cases, we might consider accepting other types of vehicles. If you have any questions, just give us a call at (925) 326-5868. Your vehicle doesn't need to be running, but it should be in one piece and towable. It must have an engine and be accessible to a tow truck.
  • What paperwork do I need to donate my vehicle?
    In order to process your donation, we must have a properly signed, current, and clear title (without any lien). If there's a lienholder listed on the title, the bank must clear or release it. If you don't have the title or are facing difficulties with it, please give us a call. We're accustomed to dealing with these kinds of issues and can assist you through the process.
  • Do you accept vehicles with junk or salvage titles?
    It's best to give us a call so we can determine if we can accept your salvage title vehicle. Call us at (925) 326-5868.
  • What if I've lost or misplaced my vehicle's title?
    It's a common problem, and we're experienced in resolving such issues quickly. Although it may involve some additional paperwork, we can guide you through the process.
  • Can I designate my vehicle donation to a nonprofit not listed on your website?
    Quite possibly, yes! Please give us a call to discuss. The nonprofit organization can also initiate the process to join our network by visiting our Nonprofits page.
  • Who receives the money from the sale of the vehicles?
    Half of the net sales proceeds go to the beneficiary organization of your choice. After accounting for expenses, the other half is distributed equally to the two Rotary clubs that operate Cars 2nd Chance. All beneficiaries are qualified as 501(c)(3) organizations by the IRS. This means you can take advantage of a tax deduction while knowing that almost every penny goes to worthy causes.
  • What will happen to my vehicle once I donate it?
    We'll evaluate your vehicle to figure out the best way to sell it and maximize its value.
  • Will I have to cover towing or other costs?
    No, you won't be responsible for any towing or additional costs.
  • How soon will my vehicle be picked up?
    Once the signed title is received, the towing company will be in touch with you to schedule a pickup. From the time the towing company is given your contact information, they will reach out to you within 12 to 48 hours.
  • When should I cancel my insurance?
    Only cancel your vehicle's insurance after we have received the title.
  • What types of vehicles do you accept?
    We accept cars, trucks, and motorhomes with clear titles. And in certain cases, we might consider accepting other types of vehicles. If you have any questions, just give us a call. Your vehicle doesn't need to be running, but it should be in one piece and towable. It must have an engine and be accessible to a tow truck.
  • Do I need a smog certificate to donate my car?
    No, you don't need a smog certificate.
  • Can I designate my vehicle donation to a nonprofit not listed on your website?
    Quite possibly, yes! Please give us a call to discuss. The nonprofit organization can also initiate the process to join our network by visiting our Nonprofits page.
  • Who receives the money from the sale of the vehicles?
    Half of the net sales proceeds go to the beneficiary organization of your choice. After accounting for expenses, the other half is distributed equally to the two Rotary clubs that operate Cars 2nd Chance. All beneficiaries are qualified as 501(c)(3) organizations by the IRS. This means you can take advantage of a tax deduction while knowing that almost every penny goes to worthy causes.
  • Are vehicles available for sale to the public?
    When we recondition vehicles, they are often made available to the public for sale. Click here to view our current inventory and sign up for notifications when vehicles become available.
  • What will happen to my vehicle once I donate it?
    We'll evaluate your vehicle to figure out the best way to sell it and maximize its value.
  • Does my car need to be registered?
    The registration requirement varies from state to state. Feel free to give us a call, and we'll confirm the specific requirements for your state.
  • How long does the entire process take, from the time the vehicle is picked up to when the nonprofit receives the funds?
    The entire process usually takes around 6 to 12 weeks. Once we receive sales proceeds, we send funds to the nonprofit organization within ten business days.
  • Can I drop off the vehicle myself to avoid towing costs for the nonprofit?
    Give us a call to inquire about coordinating a drop-off option if that works better for you.
  • When should I cancel my insurance?
    Only cancel your vehicle's insurance after we have received the title.
  • During the sale process, how can I check the status of my car or get other answers?
    We're available during normal business hours, so please feel free to give us a call or email us at service@cars2ndchance.org.
  • Will I have to cover towing or other costs?
    No, you won't be responsible for any towing or additional costs.
  • How soon will my vehicle be picked up?
    Once the signed title is received, the towing company will be in touch with you to schedule a pickup. From the time the towing company is given your contact information, they will reach out to you within 12 to 48 hours.
  • What is a title?
    A vehicle title, or a certificate of title, is a legal document showing proof of ownership of a vehicle.
  • What if I've lost or misplaced my vehicle's title?
    It's a common problem, and we're experienced in resolving such issues quickly. Although it may involve some additional paperwork, we can guide you through the process.
  • If I want to donate a vehicle that belonged to someone who passed away, can I do that?
    If you have the original death certificate and documentation proving that you're the official inheritor of the vehicle, we can accept it.
  • What paperwork do I need to donate my vehicle?
    In order to process your donation, we must have a properly signed, current, and clear title (without any liens). If there's a lien holder listed on the title, the bank must clear or release it. If you don't have the title or are facing difficulties with it, please give us a call. We're accustomed to dealing with these kinds of issues and can assist you through the process.
  • Do you accept vehicles with junk or salvage titles?
    It's best to give us a call so we can determine if we can accept your salvage title vehicle. Call us at (925)326-5868
  • What is State Notification?
    State notification releases you from liability over the vehicle, including registration fees and the obligation to keep the vehicle insured. It serves as a record that you no longer possess the vehicle. The specific steps required to release your liability vary by state, which may involve surrendering license plates, canceling registration, or submitting a report of sale or notice of transfer. It's important to complete the state notification process before canceling your insurance.
  • What is the Title Transfer Process, and who takes care of it?
    The title transfer process varies from state to state. Our vehicle donation program, along with our vendors and auction yards, will ensure that your title paperwork is correctly transferred at the time of your vehicle pick-up.
  • Who is considered the purchaser of the donated vehicle?
    Your donated vehicle's purchaser will be Copart or Cars 2nd Chance Inc.
  • If there are multiple owners listed on the title, do all parties need to sign it?
    If the names of the parties/owners on the title do not have the word "or" between them, then all parties will need to sign the title.
  • How do I know if there's a lien on my title?
    If there is a lienholder or finance company listed on the title, it will be printed on the face of the title along with a signature from a representative of the lender. If you don't have this information on your title, you'll need to include a lien release letter. If you have any questions, please email us at service@cars2ndchance.org.
  • How should I prepare for towing, and what can I expect?
    Please make sure to remove all personal belongings from the vehicle. The tow operator will collect the keys and take care of the vehicle pick up. And if your vehicle has personalized plates, kindly remove them.
  • Should I take off the license plates or leave them on the vehicle?
    If your vehicle has personalized plates, kindly remove them. If your vehicle is registered in California, you can leave the plates on. However, in some states, it's necessary to surrender or return the license plates after donating. It's best to check with your local DMV for specific requirements.
  • Can I drop off the vehicle myself?
    Give us a call to inquire about coordinating a drop-off option if that works better for you.
  • Will I have to cover towing or other costs?
    No, you won't be responsible for any towing or additional costs.
  • Will I have to cover towing or other costs?
    No, you won't be responsible for any towing or additional costs.
  • When can I schedule the pick up of my vehicle?
    Once the towing company gets in touch with you, they'll typically provide a window of time for you to choose from for your vehicle's pick up.
  • How soon will my vehicle be picked up?
    Once the signed title is received, the towing company will be in touch with you to schedule a pickup. From the time the towing company is given your contact information, they will reach out to you within 12 to 48 hours.
  • How will my vehicle be picked up?
    Once you've filled out the online vehicle donation form and we have the actual title in our possession, we'll arrange for a tow company to pick up your vehicle at a time that works for you.
  • What does "accessible for safe towing" mean?
    Vehicles considered accessible for safe towing are typically parked in front driveways, in front of homes or apartment buildings, or on the street without obstructions. Tow operators usually can't access vehicles located in areas without a direct path, such as backyards, back alleyways, or low-clearance areas. It's also preferable for all four tires to be inflated. If you're unsure about the accessibility of your vehicle, please get in touch with us.
  • Who will contact me to schedule the pick up?
    You can expect our vendor to get in touch with you through a call, text message, or email, using the contact information you provided. Just keep in mind that the phone number might be unfamiliar to you—it could be the vendor reaching out.
  • What do I need to do after my vehicle is picked up?
    If your vehicle is registered in California, we'll take care of the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability on your behalf. If you'd like, we can also mail you a copy upon request.
  • When should I cancel my insurance?
    Only cancel your vehicle's insurance after we have received the title.
  • What is State Notification?
    State notification releases you from liability over the vehicle, including registration fees and the obligation to keep the vehicle insured. It serves as a record that you no longer possess the vehicle. The specific steps required to release your liability vary by state, which may involve surrendering license plates, canceling registration, or submitting a report of sale or notice of transfer. It's important to complete the state notification process before canceling your insurance.
  • What if there's an issue with my car after it's donated?
    Once we've picked up the vehicle, we take full responsibility. In the unlikely event that you receive any notifications regarding lien sales, DMV actions, infractions, evasions, or other activities related to your donated vehicle, please contact us immediately for assistance. Please note that you are responsible for any fines or fees related to your vehicle prior to the pick up. For specific DMV-related questions, it's best to refer to your state's DMV.
  • What is the Title Transfer Process, and who takes care of it?
    The title transfer process varies from state to state. Our vehicle donation program, along with our vendors and auction yards, will ensure that your title paperwork is correctly transferred at the time of your vehicle pick-up.
  • During the sale process, how can I check the status of my car or get other answers?
    We're available during normal business hours, so please feel free to give us a call or email us at service@cars2ndchance.org.
  • Will I be notified when my donated vehicle sells?
    Within 30 days of the sale, one of our representatives will email or mail you a thank-you letter on behalf of the nonprofit that receives your donation. This letter serves as a copy of your tax receipt. If your vehicle sells for more than $500 and you've provided your Social Security Number, you'll receive an IRS Form 1098-C* within 30 days of the sale. * Form 1098C - Contributions of Motor Vehicles, Boats, and Airplanes
  • Are vehicle donations tax-deductible?
    Yes, vehicle donations are tax-deductible. Keep in mind that individual tax situations can vary. If you have specific tax-related questions, it's best to consult with your tax advisor or refer to IRS Publication 4303.
  • Will I receive a donation receipt?
    Within 30 days of the vehicle sale, you'll receive a thank-you letter, which serves as a tax receipt. This will be your final tax document if your vehicle sells for $500 or less. If your vehicle sells for more than $500 and you provided us with this signed form which includes your Social Security Number (SSN), Cars 2nd Chance will mail you an IRS Form 1098-C, “Contributions of Motor Vehicles, Boats, and Airplanes,” within 30 days of the sale. The form will state the gross proceeds received from your donation.
  • How is the value of my tax deduction determined?
    According to IRS guidelines, as a donor, you can claim the fair market value of your vehicle donation up to the actual sale value. If the vehicle sells for more than $500, your deduction will be the sales price, which will be shown on your IRS Form 1098-C. In cases where the donated vehicle sells for $500 or less, a special rule applies: You can claim a deduction for the lesser of the vehicle's fair market value on the date of the contribution or $500.
  • When is the latest I can donate my vehicle and still get a tax deduction for the same year?
    At Cars 2nd Chance, we give you until the very last minute—11:59 p.m. on December 31—to contact us and pledge your vehicle donation to your preferred nonprofit. This way, you can count it as a charitable contribution for the same year. It's important to note that the donation is time-stamped from the day you call in and provide your personal and vehicle information along with the title. So, even if the pick up is scheduled for January, your donation receipt will reflect December 31.
  • What does "fair market value" mean?
    The fair market value is the price a willing buyer would pay and a willing seller would accept for the vehicle, when neither party is compelled to buy or sell, and both parties have reasonable knowledge of the relevant facts. Vehicle pricing guides (e.g., Kelly Blue Book) are often used to determine fair market value, but it is wise to consult IRS Publication 4303 for guidance.
  • Will my donation count for the year I submit my donation form, even if I don't receive a receipt until the following year?
    Of course! We're here to assist you. As long as you submit your donation form and deliver the title by December 31 for a vehicle with a clear title, you can count it as a tax-deductible contribution for the same tax year.
  • I donated earlier this year, but I didn't receive or misplaced my tax receipt. Can you resend it?
    Of course! We're here to assist you. Please give us a call during regular business hours, or you can email us at service@cars2ndchance.org and let us know that you need a replacement.
  • Where can I find additional IRS tax deduction information?
    For more information about tax deductions for charitable contributions, you can refer to the following IRS publications and forms: IRS Publication 4303, A Donor's Guide to Vehicle Donation IRS Publication 526, Charitable Contributions IRS Publication 561, Determining the Value of Donated Property IRS Form 8283, Noncash Charitable Contributions If you still have questions, don't hesitate to call us at (925) 326-5868.
Can't find your answers?

If you need any additional assistance, please reach out to us!

Man thinking of questions
thought bubble
question icon
bottom of page