Donate Your Car

TCM uses the Vehicle Donation Program of Car Program, Inc. as a means of raising funds for our ministries. Through our car donation program, we can transform old cars into miracles. On average, 89.2% of all proceeds have been given to Trinity Community Ministries. Remember that beginning January 1, 2005, the IRS tax deduction for your vehicle donation will be limited to the price it was purchased for and NOT the ìBlue Bookî value. Below are some frequently asked questions about our car donation program.

Q. How do I start the car donation process?

A. Call (404) 577-6651.

or

B. Contact Us for the donation form.

Q. What does TCM do with the cars and does a car have to run in order for me to donate it?

A. TCM uses a community partner to process the paperwork and sell the cars. Our agent usually sells cars that do not run to second-hand parts suppliers. Occasionally, TCM cannot accept a car that does not run because of its age (1970s or 1960s) or because it has major body damage. TCM will accept donated cars that do not run if they are otherwise in good condition.

Q. I have heard about a number of scams involving car donation programs in which for-profit companies make most of the money. Does this happen with TCM’s program?

A. TCM works with a reputable company and selling agents that do not demand a high percentage of the car’s sales price. Our community partner charges us a flat rate of $100 per car, plus $75 if a car needs to be towed. TCM pays the fee(s) out of the sales price of each car, and this is an extremely reasonable fee that does not represent the true value of our partner’s time.

Q. Why do you ask donors to take their cars to the agent who processes them?

A. This saves TCM $75 and increases the amount of money that fund our ministries. Nevertheless, our community partner is willing to tow cars if his location is inconvenient for the donor.

Q. How do I determine my car’s value for tax purposes?

A. Many factors affect the amount you can claim on your taxes, such as condition, age, mileage, the engine, etc. For this reason, TCM recommends that donors consult their professional tax advisor in estimating the value of this donated vehicle.