Knowing The Right Time For a Charitable Car Donation

There are so many good reasons why a person decides to donate a car to charity. The desire to do something good, the need to get rid of a vehicle, or wanting a deduction on taxes are just a few. Yet many people have wondered, when is the best time to donate a car?

Below are 10 instances that show the right timing for a car donation:

1. Repairs too expensive.

When the cost to keep your vehicle repaired and maintained is too high, it’s a good time to donate your car. Even minor repairs that have added up can have you paying out more for your car than it is worth. 

2. Ready to upgrade to a newer car.

If you are shopping for a new car, donating your old car may be a better option than trading it in. Car dealerships often propose a hugely-reduced amount for trade-in vehicles than the actual value. This is because they can sense when a buyer is anxious to get rid of their old car. This is a great time to choose to donate your old car to Kidney Cars where it’s value will be used to save lives and you can get a deduction on your taxes. 

3. Not reliable transportation

If your car has broken down and is no longer able to function as you need, it may be time to let it go and move on. You don’t need unreliable transportation to bring you more stress. 

4. Mileage gets to 100k

Many people do not look forward to when their car gets close to 100,000 miles as many substantial repairs start popping up. Expensive repairs like the transmission, brakes, water pump, fuel pump, and engine problems can all wreak havoc on your wallet. It may bring more peace of mind to donate it and move on to a newer car. 

5. Close to year end and need a tax deduction

Cars donated prior to midnight on the last day of the year will count for a tax benefit for that tax year. 

6. Signs of rust

If you live in a state where road salt is used, you know how rust can start showing up on a car. When this damage builds up, it can literally destroy your cars value. Donating your car may be the best option before rust damage worsens. 

7. Vehicle warranty expired

When there is no more warranty on your vehicle, thus no coverage for costly repairs, it might be an optimal time to donate it.  

8. Inheriting a vehicle

Sometimes when an elderly relative passes away, they pass their vehicle down to you along with the responsibility of registering, repairing, fixing it up, or trying to sell it. You can avoid this stress and free up driveway space by donating it to Kidney Cars. 

9. Need a bigger vehicle

If you find yourself needing a bigger car for your growing family, or a car that gets better gas mileage for your commute, it may be a great time to donate your old car. Donating means your vehicle can continue to make a difference for a good cause.

10. Has body damage

When your vehicle gets damage to the body, it might need a total-loss or salvage title which lessens its value excessively. A totaled car will not be covered by most insurance companies. However, even if there is body damage, Kidney Cars will still accept your donated car and you can still receive a tax benefit. 

• Help improve lives and donate your vehicle today. 

• We accept vehicles even if they no longer are running, as long as they have a title. 

• There is no cost to you, simply call us at 800.488.CARS (2277) or complete our online form. 

• Then schedule a pick up time that fits your schedule. You can make a difference in the lives of millions with kidney disease.