How To Donate A Car Of A Deceased Person

 

Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with their belongings can often feel overwhelming. One common situation families face is deciding what to do with the deceased’s vehicle. For many, donating it becomes a meaningful way to honor their memory while also supporting a charitable cause. If you’re wondering how to donate a deceased person's car, this guide walks you through the steps, legal requirements, and considerations to ensure a smooth process.

Why Donate a Car of a Deceased Person?

Cars are often one of the more valuable possessions left behind, but not every family wants or needs to keep them. Instead of letting the vehicle sit unused or going through the hassle of selling it, donation can be a compassionate and practical option. Donating a car can:

• Provide much-needed support to charities or non-profits.
• Offer potential tax deductions for the estate or beneficiaries.
• Save time and effort compared to trying to sell the car.
• Honor the legacy of your loved one by supporting causes they cared about.

Step 1: Confirm Vehicle Ownership

Before beginning the donation process, you must confirm the legal ownership of the vehicle. The title plays the central role here. If the car is solely in the deceased person’s name, you’ll need to establish who is legally authorized to transfer ownership. This typically involves the following scenarios:

1. Joint Ownership – If the vehicle title has two names and is listed as “joint tenants with right of survivorship,” the surviving owner usually becomes the sole owner automatically.
2. Estate Process – If the car was only in the deceased’s name, the estate executor or administrator is typically responsible for handling the transfer.
3. Small Estate Affidavit – Some states allow heirs to use a simplified affidavit if the estate is relatively small, making the process quicker and less complicated.

Always check your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for specific requirements.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents

To donate the car legally, you’ll need a set of documents in order:

• Original vehicle title
• Death certificate of the deceased
• Executor or administrator paperwork from the probate court
• Affidavit of heirship (if applicable in your state)
• Valid ID of the person handling the transaction

Having these documents ready helps prevent delays when you approach charities or donation services.

Step 3: Choose a Charity or Donation Service

Once the legal ownership is clear, you can select a charity or car donation service. Some families choose organizations that align with their loved one’s values—for example, veteran support groups, health-related charities, or local non-profits.

You have two main options:

1. Direct Charity Donation – Some non-profits accept vehicles directly and may even provide free towing.
2. Car Donation Services – These companies handle the logistics of pickup, sale, and donation distribution. They often simplify the process, especially if you are managing multiple estate responsibilities.

When researching, ensure the charity is a registered 501(c)(3) organization if you plan to take a tax deduction.

Step 4: Complete the Title Transfer

The executor, administrator, or surviving owner must sign the title over to the chosen charity or donation service. Some states may require notarization, while others may ask for additional DMV forms. Make sure to remove the license plates (if required in your state) before the car is picked up.

If you’re unsure, most donation services provide step-by-step guidance to ensure everything is done legally.

Step 5: Arrange Pickup or Drop-Off

After the paperwork is settled, you can schedule a pickup. Most donation services and many charities provide free towing, which is particularly helpful if the car is no longer in running condition.

If the vehicle is operable and you prefer, you may drop it off at the charity’s designated location. Either way, ensure you keep a copy of the donation receipt for your records.

Step 6: Claiming the Tax Deduction

One of the benefits of donating is the potential tax deduction. To qualify:

• The donation must be to a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
• You must obtain a receipt from the charity.
• If the car’s value exceeds $500, you’ll need IRS Form 1098-C or equivalent documentation.

Consult a tax professional to ensure you maximize the deduction while staying compliant with IRS regulations.

Important Considerations

• Outstanding Loans: If the vehicle has an unpaid loan, you’ll need to settle it before donation.
• Multiple Heirs: If several heirs are involved, make sure everyone agrees before proceeding to avoid disputes.
• Charity Reputation: Verify that the organization is legitimate to avoid scams.

Taking the time to handle these details ensures the donation process goes smoothly.

Example Timeline

1. Locate the vehicle title and death certificate.
2. Confirm legal authority to transfer ownership.
3. Contact a reputable charity or donation service.
4. Sign and transfer the title legally.
5. Schedule pickup or drop-off.
6. Keep documentation for tax purposes.

On average, the entire process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on probate requirements.

Final Thoughts

Donating a loved one’s car may feel emotionally difficult, but it can also be a powerful way to create a lasting impact. By understanding the legal process, gathering the necessary documents, and choosing a reputable organization, you can ensure the vehicle continues to serve a meaningful purpose. If you’ve been wondering how to donate a deceased person's car, the steps above provide a clear path forward. This choice not only honors your loved one’s memory but also supports a cause that makes a difference.