Frequently Asked Questions

Even though we make your car donation process easy, we understand that you may have some questions. Below, we’ve compiled answers to frequently asked questions about how to donate a car, truck, RV, boat, or another vehicle to HOPE BEYOND FRONTIERS East Bay. If at any time you are unable to locate answers to a question, feel free to give us a call at (925)-877-4377. It’s that easy!

What Can I Donate?
All vehicles are considered, running or not. We accept most cars, trucks, trailers, boats, RVs, motorcycles, off-road vehicles, heavy equipment, and most other motorized vehicles. If you have any questions about what you can donate, please call us at (925)-877-4377 seven days a week.

Is My Donation Tax-Deductible?
Yes! Individual tax situations vary, so please check with a tax professional to determine how you may benefit. HOPE BEYOND FRONTIERS East Bay is registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our tax identification number is 85-3189527.

How Is the Value of My Tax Deduction Determined?
The amount that is tax-deductible is the sale price of the vehicle. For more information on tax write-offs, we suggest you review IRS Publication 526, which explains IRS requirements to determine the value of your donated property.

What Paperwork Do I Need to Donate My Vehicle?
You will need the title to the vehicle, but if you do not have it, please call us anyway. It is possible that other arrangements may be made. Please call us at (925)-877-4377 seven days a week. You do not need to have a current smog certificate.

My Car Is No Longer Running. Can I Still Donate It?
Yes. We are able to accept most vehicles, running or not. Most vehicles need to be intact and in towable condition. To find out if we can accept your vehicle, please complete our secure online car donation form on this page or call us at (925)-877-4377 seven days a week.

How Will the Car Be Picked Up?
We will arrange to have your donated vehicle towed away at a scheduled time convenient for you. The vehicle will be picked up by a licensed tow company at no cost to you and will be taken to one of our sale locations.

How Long Will It Take to Pick Up My Car?
Once your car donation information is complete, a licensed tow vendor will contact you within 72 hours to schedule a pickup appointment that’s convenient for you. If you need your car picked up sooner, please call us at (925)-877-4377 seven days a week. We may be able to make those arrangements as well.

Will I Get  a Tax Receipt for My Donation?
Yes. The tow driver will provide you with a donation receipt at the time of pickup. This is not your final tax receipt unless the sale of your vehicle does not exceed $500. This initial acknowledgment will indicate your name as well as the year, make, model, and condition of the car you are donating. It will be your only receipt if your vehicle sells for less than $500. 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. This will be your tax receipt for your charitable contribution if your vehicle sells for more than $500.