How to Donate a Car to the Kidney Foundation

We've all heard the song, "Make your car a kidney car. Cars that save lives." But what exactly do you have to do, and what should your expect when you donate a car to the National Kidney Foundation?

Will the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) accept a car that isn't in good shape?

The National Kidney Foundation accepts all vehicle donations. That includes cars, vans, SUV's, boats, and RV's even if they have significant body damage, engine troubles, and/or don't run.

How do I go about donating a car to the National Kidney Foundation?

Call 1-800-488-CARS and tell them you intend to donate your vehicle. The NKF will take your information and email forms to you in a pdf file (or mail them via snail mail, if you prefer). There are only three pages- two that explain the process and one that you need to fill out and return.

Do I need any other information?

Yes. You'll need to send the NKF the original title to the vehicle. If you can't find the original title, you'll need to obtain a duplicate title from the Department of Motor Vehicles (or the Secretary of State, as the case may be). If the title for the vehicle shows a lien, you'll also need to provide the lien release. If you can't find the lien release, the lender will reissue it.

Send the one-page form, the original title, and the lien release (if applicable) to the National Kidney Foundation. (The address is on the NKF form.)

Who comes to get the car?

You should receive a phone call from a towing company within 24 hours of contacting the National Kidney Foundation. They typically pick up the car (or vehicle) the next day, unless you need to make other arrangements.

Do I have to wait all day for them?

No. As a matter of fact, no one needs to be present when the car gets towed. Just let the tow truck driver know where it will be. Make sure to take the license plates off, remove all personal belongings, put the keys inside, and leave the driver's door unlocked.

How does the NKF value my car?

They sell it at auction. You should receive a receipt of the actual price your vehicle sold for within 30-45 days of the donation. Be certain to save the receipt for your taxes.

How do I claim a Kidney Car donation on my taxes?

You can only claim a Kidney Car donation if you file an itemized tax return.

Claim the greater of the actual selling price of the vehicle or $499.

If the car sold for more than $499, you need the receipt for proof, and you'll need to fill out IRS form 8232. (IRS form 8232 is very easy to fill out. If you do your own taxes, don't be intimidated by this.)

How does the donation of a vehicle help the National Kidney Foundation?

Vehicle donations help fund patient and community services and education, kidney research, professional training, and patient advocacy.

Donating a car to the National Kidney Foundation is an extremely easy and hassle-free experience that benefits everyone involved.

Sources:
http://www.kidney.org/support/kidneycars/index.cfm
personal experience