How to Donate Cars in Knoxville, Tennessee

By Justine Depalma

  • Overview

    Many Knoxville Tennessee charities accept car donations. Donated cars are sold by the charity and a portion of the proceeds is used by the charity for funding its programs. Donors receive a deduction on the federal income tax return, so it's a win-win situation.

    • Step 1

      Choose a charity. There are many Knoxville charities that accept donated cars. For example, WUOT 91.9 fm is a public radio station operated by the University of Tennessee. The station plays classical and jazz music and airs news and public affairs programs. Car donations are accepted through the "Car Talk" program, with funds raised directed to WUOT (see Resources below). Reach the "Car Talk" car donation program by calling (866) 789-8627.

    • Step 2

      Support the National Kidney Foundation that uses money raised from selling donated cars to support its programs. The NKF provides support for families, education and research to benefit people suffering from kidney disease. Contact the National Kidney Foundation at (866) 688-5481 to donate an auto (see Resources below).

    • Step 3

      Consider donating a car to Beyond the Limits, a Knoxville area charity that provides education and resources for families dealing with autism. The Beyond the Limits car donation program can be reached by calling (866) 392-4483 (see Resources below).

    • Step 4

      Find your title and fill it out. The buyer is the charity. The charity will file the title with the Tennessee Department of State after it receives the car.

    • Step 5

      Keep a copy of the receipt or letter of thanks. IRS regulations require the charity to send a written statement of the sales price of the car. Your deduction is the gross sales price.
    • Skill: Moderately Easy
    • Ingredients:
    • Title to the Car
    • Charity's IRS Letter of Determination
    • Photographs of the Car
    • Receipt from Charity for the Donation
    • Tip: Take photographs of the car to prove your donation.
    • Tip: Get a written professional appraisal from a car dealer if your car is worth more than $5,000.
    • Tip: Ask whatever charity you choose for a copy of its lRS Letter of Determination. IRS regulations only allow deductions for cars donated to recognized charities.
    • Warning:
    • Consult with your tax preparer to make certain that you are following IRS regulations.

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