Donating a vehicle in memory of a loved one can be a deeply meaningful way to celebrate their life, especially if they were passionate about their car. At Wheels for Good, we understand the emotional weight of such a decision, and we are here to guide you through the process.
When you donate a car in memory of a deceased spouse, parent, or relative, we will acknowledge this tribute in our records and send a notification card to the family. Please note that the title of the vehicle must be in your name, as the current owner, to proceed with the donation.
How to make it happen
Confirm Title Ownership
Ensure the vehicle title is in your name. If the title is still in the name of the deceased, you may need to handle estate-probate matters before proceeding with the donation.
Complete Donation Form
Fill out the Wheels for Good donation form. Be sure to indicate that this donation is in memory of your loved one and provide their name for our records.
Schedule Vehicle Pickup
Contact Wheels for Good to schedule a convenient pickup time for your vehicle. Our team will handle the logistics and ensure a smooth process.
Receive IRS Receipt
After the donation, you will receive a tax receipt (IRS 1098-C) in your name, which is essential for tax purposes. Keep this for your records.
Notify Family Members
We will send a tribute card to the family members you specify, letting them know that a donation has been made in memory of their loved one.
Common gotchas
Title Issues
Tip: If the vehicle title is still in your loved one's name, you may need probate court involvement, delaying the donation. Ensure the title is transferred to you first.
IRS Receipt Clarity
Tip: Remember, the IRS receipt will be issued to the current owner of the vehicle. If multiple people are listed on the title, it may complicate receipt ownership.
Notification Cards
Tip: If you wish to notify family members of the donation, ensure you provide their correct names and addresses during the donation process.
If this path doesn't fit
If donating the car isn't feasible due to title or estate issues, consider other options like holding a memorial event or fundraising in your loved one's name. Sharing their story and legacy can also inspire others to honor them through charitable giving in different ways.
Kansas City DMV specifics
In Missouri, ensure that you have completed the necessary lien-release paperwork if there are other owners on the title. You may also need to surrender the vehicle plates when you donate, so check with the local DMV for specific requirements to avoid any complications during the donation process.