Donating a vehicle in memory of a loved one is a heartfelt way to honor their life while also making a meaningful contribution to our community through Badger Auto Aid. This tribute allows you to celebrate their memory by supporting a cause they may have cared about.
To ensure a smooth donation process, remember that the car title must be in your name. We can send a tribute card to the family, acknowledging your generous donation and the person you are honoring. Plus, you will receive an IRS receipt for your tax records, making this donation more than just a gesture; it’s a valuable contribution.
How to make it happen
Confirm Ownership
Ensure the vehicle title is in your name, as the IRS requires the donation receipt to be issued to the current owner, not the deceased.
Complete the Donation Form
Fill out our online donation form, indicating that the donation is made in memory of your loved one. Include their name for tribute card recognition.
Schedule Vehicle Pickup
Once the form is submitted, our team will contact you to arrange a convenient pickup time. We’ll handle the logistics at no cost to you.
Send Notification to Family
After the donation is processed, we will send a tribute card to the family of the deceased to inform them of your generous donation in their loved one's memory.
Receive IRS Tax Receipt
You will receive an IRS tax receipt based on the vehicle's value, which can be claimed on your next tax return. This is especially beneficial if the value exceeds the $500 threshold.
Common gotchas
Title in Deceased's Name
Tip: If the vehicle title is still in the deceased's name, it may require probate to transfer ownership, which can slow down the donation process.
No Lien Release
Tip: Ensure that any liens on the vehicle are properly released before donation. This will prevent delays and complications during the pickup.
Notification Timing
Tip: Be mindful that the family notification card can only be sent once the donation is complete and the vehicle is picked up.
If this path doesn't fit
If donating a vehicle isn’t feasible, consider honoring your loved one with a monetary donation to Badger Auto Aid in their name. Alternatively, you could explore other ways to memorialize them, such as establishing a scholarship or participating in local charity events that align with their passions.
Wisconsin DMV specifics
In Wisconsin, when donating a vehicle, ensure that you visit the DMV to handle any necessary paperwork related to title transfer and lien releases. You'll also need to surrender the license plates, so keep that in mind during the donation process. Our team can provide guidance on any state-specific requirements to ensure a smooth experience.