Eagle Vehicles Can Do More Than Trade In

Often, yes. Junk cars, non-running vehicles, and cars with major mechanical issues are accepted by many charities and sold at auction or to salvage buyers. Free towing still applies.

If the charity sells the vehicle, the deduction is generally the gross sale price reported on Form 1098-C. If the sale is $500 or less, the donor may deduct the lesser of $500 or fair market value (Kelley Blue Book private-party value is a common reference). If the charity uses the car directly or makes material improvements before selling, fair market value rules apply.

Begin with the form on this page: provide a few basic details about the Eagle vehicle and request a free pickup. From there the donor is connected with a qualified 501(c)(3) that schedules the tow, accepts the signed title, and mails the IRS Form 1098-C.

Pickup is often scheduled within a few days of the initial contact. The IRS Form 1098-C documenting the deduction is generally mailed within 30 days of the vehicle being sold, or within 30 days of the donation if the charity intends to use the car directly.

Pickup is typically scheduled within a few business days of the initial contact, often within a week. The donor sets the window; the tow company arrives during that window.

For most vehicles, the deduction equals the amount the charity nets at sale, reported on Form 1098-C. Cars sold for $500 or less generally support a deduction of the lesser of $500 or fair market value. Actual tax savings depend on the donor's income, filing status, and itemized total.