Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about donating to Driving Successful Lives and how your support makes a difference
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Vehicle Donation
Real Estate
Tax Information
Our Program
General Questions
Vehicle Donations
How do I donate a vehicle to Driving Successful Lives?
Donating your vehicle is simple. You can start by calling our donation hotline at 1-877-721-1627 or filling out our online donation form. Our team will guide you through the process, arrange free pickup of your vehicle, and handle all the necessary paperwork. We accept vehicles in virtually any condition, even if they’re not running
What happness to the vehicle that are donated?
Donated vehicles are either used directly in our community programs, provided to families in need, or sold with proceeds funding our charitable initiatives. Vehicles in good condition might be given to veterans or families requiring transportation. Those requiring significant repairs are typically sold, with all proceeds supporting our mission to help communities and individuals in need.
Do you accept vehicle that aren’t running?
Yes! We accept vehicles in almost any condition, including those that aren’t running. Our free towing service will pick up your non-running vehicle from your location. Even vehicles with significant mechanical issues or damage have value to our program and can help support our mission.
How long dose the vehicle donation process takes?
The typical vehicle donation process takes between 24-48 hours from your initial contact to the vehicle pickup. Once you provide the necessary information, we’ll schedule a convenient pickup time, usually within 1-3 business days. The title transfer and tax receipt are typically processed within 30 days after the vehicle has been picked up.
What documents do I need to donate my vehicle ?
For most vehicle donations, you’ll need the vehicle title in your name. If you’ve lost your title, our donation specialists can guide you through obtaining a replacement. In some cases, we may accept vehicles without titles depending on state regulations. You’ll also need to provide a completed and signed IRS Form 1098-C at tax time, which we’ll provide to you.
Real Estate Donations
Do you accept Real estate donations?
Yes, Driving Successful Lives gratefully accepts real estate donations, including residential properties, commercial buildings, land, and more. Real estate donations provide significant support for our mission while potentially offering substantial tax benefits to donors.
What type of properties do you accept?
Yes, it’s possible to donate property with an existing mortgage, though it involves additional considerations. The mortgage would need to be addressed during the donation process, either by being paid off before donation or through other arrangements. Our real estate donation specialists can discuss your specific situation and options.
Can I donate property with a mortage?
Yes, it’s possible to donate property with an existing mortgage, though it involves additional considerations. The mortgage would need to be addressed during the donation process, either by being paid off before donation or through other arrangements. Our real estate donation specialists can discuss your specific situation and options.
How is the property valued for tax purpose?
For tax deduction purposes, the IRS generally requires an independent qualified appraisal for real estate donations valued over $5,000. This appraisal must be conducted by a qualified appraiser within a specific timeframe relative to the donation date. We can provide guidance on this process and recommend qualified appraisers in your area.
Tax Information
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes, Driving Successful Lives is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, making your donation tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. For vehicle donations, you may claim a tax deduction for the fair market value of your vehicle up to $500, or if we sell it, the actual sale amount. For higher-value donations, additional documentation may be required.
What documentation will I receive for tax purposes?
For vehicle donations, you’ll receive an initial receipt at the time of pickup. Once your vehicle has been processed (either sold or assigned to a program), you’ll receive IRS Form 1098-C for tax purposes, typically within 30 days. For donations valued over $250, you’ll also receive a written acknowledgment of your donation. We provide all necessary documentation for your tax records.
How do I determine the value of my donated vehicle for tax purposes?
For vehicles valued under $500, you can claim the fair market value. For vehicles sold by our organization that sell for more than $500, your deduction will be limited to the actual sale price, which will be reported on the IRS Form 1098-C we provide to you. For vehicles we keep and use in our programs, you may deduct the fair market value, which should be determined through reliable resources like Kelley Blue Book.
When i will receive my tax receipt?
You’ll receive an initial donation receipt at the time your vehicle is picked up. The formal tax receipt (IRS Form 1098-C) is typically sent within 30 days after the vehicle has been sold or put into use in our programs. This form includes all the information you need for your tax deduction claim.
Our Programs
How does Driving Successful Lives help communities?
Driving Successful Lives provides essential support to communities through multiple programs, including transportation assistance for low-income families, vehicle donations to veterans, job skills training in automotive repair, community development initiatives, and environmental efforts through proper vehicle recycling. Our focus is on creating sustainable solutions that empower individuals and strengthen communities.
How are funds from donations used?
Funds from donations directly support our community programs, with approximately 85% of proceeds going directly to program services. These include providing vehicles to families in need, veterans’ support services, job training programs, community development initiatives, and operational costs to sustain our mission. We maintain full financial transparency with annual reports available on our website.
Do you have programs specifically for veterans?
Yes, we have dedicated programs for veterans, including our ‘Keys to Progress’ initiative that provides refurbished vehicles to veterans and their families. We also offer transportation assistance, job placement services focused on automotive skills, and community support networks specifically designed for veterans transitioning to civilian life.
Can I volunteer with your organization?
Absolutely! We welcome volunteers who share our passion for helping communities. Volunteer opportunities include assisting with vehicle processing, administrative support, event coordination, and community outreach. Visit our Volunteer page or contact us directly to learn about current opportunities and how you can contribute your time and skills.
General Questions
Besides vehicles and real estate, what other donations do you accept?
In addition to vehicles and real estate, we accept monetary donations, electronics, boats, RVs, motorcycles, and other valuable items that can support our mission. We also welcome corporate partnerships, planned giving arrangements, and in-kind donations of goods and services that help us operate effectively and expand our community impact.
Is Driving Successful Lives a legitimate charity?
Yes, Driving Successful Lives is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with full IRS tax-exempt status. We maintain transparent financial reporting, adhere to nonprofit best practices, and are committed to responsible stewardship of all donations. Our financial reports and IRS determination letter are available on our website for public review.
Do you operate nationwide?
Yes, we offer vehicle donation services throughout all 50 states. Our real estate donation program is also national, though specific services may vary by location. Our community impact programs are currently focused in several regions, with ongoing expansion to reach more communities across the country.
How can I contact Driving Successful Lives with additional questions?
You can reach us by phone at 1-877-721-1627, email at info@drivingsuccessfullives.org, or through the contact form on our website. Our donor support team is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM EST and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST to answer your questions and provide assistance.