Save lives and donate your vehicle to PAWS Chicago! Each vehicle donation will go toward the life-saving programs at PAWS Chicago including spay/neuter, adoption and community outreach.
Besides receiving a tax deduction, you will know that your donation was used to save the lives of homeless dogs and cats while supporting our mission to build a No Kill Chicago!
Get started today by filling out the vehicle donation form!
Questions about the PAWS Chicago Vehicle Donation Program? Call 773-475-4240 or email ewhittington@pawschicago.org
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I donate my car if it no longer runs, has mechanical problems or failed the emissions test?
Yes, all vehicle donations are accepted, running or not.
2. What can I donate?
We accept most vehicles including but not limited to cars, trucks, RVs, boats, trailers and motorcycles. The vehicle donation program is nationwide and we can accept vehicles from anywhere in the US.
3. How much will I receive as a tax deduction for my donation?
The IRS allows you to claim one of the following:
Claiming a Value up to $500
If you are claiming a value of less than $500, it is up to the donor to determine the fair market value. You will receive an acknowledgment letter in the mail that will accompany your estimate of the fair market value for tax purposes.
Claiming Value Greater than $500
If you are claiming a value greater than $500, the IRS will allow you to claim the gross proceeds from the sale of the vehicle (minus towing and maintenance costs). After sale, you will receive an acknowledgment letter along with an IRS 1098c form stating the sale price/claimable amount.
The following factors may affect the sale price of your car and consequently the amount you can claim as a deduction:
- Vehicle Age
- Operability
- Impending Repairs
- Damage
- High Mileage
PAWS Chicago is a 501(c)(3) charity organization. The deduction is of value only if you itemize your deductions. For a more detailed overview, please visit www.irs.gov or talk with your tax advisor.
4. When can I claim this donation on my taxes?
You can claim this donation after the funding has been received by PAWS Chicago. This will occur after the vehicle sells. There is no guarantee this will happen the same calendar year that the donation is made. In most cases, the vehicle is sold within one to two months of the donation, but this is not guaranteed.
5. What if I do not have my title?
In most cases we can pick up your vehicle donations without a title. Call us at 773-475-4240 to determine whether we can accept your vehicle.
6. Will my car be junked or used for parts?
The outcome of your vehicle depends on its condition as well as other variable factors. Regardless of the outcome, PAWS Chicago will have benefited, and you will receive a tax deductible receipt.
7. Will I receive a receipt when the vehicle is picked up?
You will receive a temporary receipt from the towing company at the time of the pick up. Once the vehicle sells, you will receive an acknowledgment letter in the mail as well as an IRS form 1098c to use for tax purposes if the vehicle sells for more than $500.
8. How should I sign my title?
When signing your title, please make sure that you print and sign your name as the “Seller” in EXACTLY the way it appears on the face of the title.
9. Should I expect any towing, etc. charges?
No, there is absolutely no charge to you for your donation.
10. How long will it take till my car is picked up?
After you have submitted your information via phone or through the convenient vehicle donation form, you will be contacted within 24 hours to arrange a pickup time. Your vehicle will be picked up within 72 hours of the initial contact and submission of your information.
11. How much of this donation will go to PAWS Chicago?
PAWS Chicago will receive 80% of the amount the vehicle is sold for. The other 20% will be used to cover towing costs, the marketing of the vehicle, maintenance costs, etc.
