Vehicle Donation Program


The Parkinson’s Association of San Diego has contracted with Charitable Auto Resources (CARS) to receive and sell cars, boats, motorcycles, RV’s and other vehicles donated for us.  They quickly and painlessly handle all the paperwork, pickup and the disposal of the vehicle.  You will also get a tax deduction, based on the sales price of the vehicle, less any processing fees.

Funds raised by the sale of the vehicle will benefit local families benefitting from the more than 20 supportive programs and services offered by the Association.

Click Here to Donate Your Vehicle Today

A (CARS) representative will contact you shortly to guide you through the next step in the vehicle donation process.  If you prefer to contact us by phone, please call 877-537-5277 and one of our representatives will help you with your donation.

Charitable Auto Resources, Inc. (CARS) accepts car donations for the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego (PASD) and over 500 other charitable and non-profit organizations throughout the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of donating my vehicle to the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego?

PASD benefits by receiving a cash donation to fund existing programs and services, medical research seeking better treatments and a cure for Parkinson’s, and to increase community awareness through local events.  You benefit by being able to reduce your taxable income when taxes are itemized. Plus, you avoid the costs associated with selling your car. No need to pay for advertising, no loss of privacy and possible security risk, and no need to pay for vehicle registration, insurance, and repairs to keep your car in running condition while you wait for a buyer.

What percentage of my vehicle donation goes to the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego?

PASD, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, receives 70 percent of the net proceeds.

Does my car have to be running to donate it?

In some cases we can take your car, running or not. However, it must have an engine and be towable. Contact a CARS Customer Service Representative at 877-537-5277 to find out if your vehicle qualifies for pick-up.

How long will it take to pick up my vehicle?

We make donating your car as simple and convenient as possible. In many cases, vehicles can be picked up within the same week. Call our representatives at 877-537-5277, or email donate@charitableautoresources.com to set an appointment.

Do I need a smog certificate in order to donate my car?

For states that require smog certificates or safety inspections, you may donate your vehicle without these documents.

What if I receive legal notices?

In the rare event that you receive any notification of a lien sale, DMV actions or other activity related to your donated vehicle, please contact us at 877-537-5277 immediately for assistance.

How does the new law effect my tax deduction?

Donors will no longer be responsible for determining the deductible value of their donation. Instead, they will receive IRS Form 1098-C, Contributions of Motor Vehicles, Boats, and Airplanes if the proceeds from the sale exceed $500, stating the amount of the gross proceeds from the sale of the donated vehicle. The amount listed on IRS Form 1098-C, Contributions of Motor Vehicles, Boats, and Airplanes will be the gross proceeds of the deductible donation.

Will I get a tax receipt for my vehicle donation?

Yes, a CARS driver will issue a receipt at the time of pick-up. This is not your final tax receipt unless the sale of your vehicle does not exceed $500. This initial acknowledgement 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.

How is the value of my vehicle donation determined?

The value is determined by the gross proceeds raised from the sale of the donated vehicle.

Does the new tax law affect the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego?

PASD will have additional paperwork in reporting the gross proceeds raised from the sale of the vehicle to you and the IRS.

What can I claim as a deduction?

According to the tax law effective January 1, 2005, if the claimed value of the donated vehicle exceeds $500, the taxpayer is limited to the gross proceeds of the sale.

What if my vehicle is valued over $5000?

Effective January 1, 2005, you will no longer be required to have vehicles appraised. The value you may claim will be the amount of gross proceeds received from your vehicle.

PASD Turn Cars into Hope, Strength and Care

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