Car Donation Houston

Houston is popularly known as the rocket capital of the US, as it is the home of the National Aeronautic and Space Administration. The city is also home to some of the most successful charities in the US. These charities work hard to make society a better place especially for those less fortunate or disabled.

In addition to cash donations, Houston charities accept cars, which can be used to generate funds or as materials for their various programs. The Davis Memorial Foundation initiated the practice of car donations in 1978.

Car donation programs became a new source of funds for charities and help support various humanitarian programs. Some of the well know charities that operate car donation programs include the United Way, the Red Cross, Easter Seals, the Salvation Army and Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

The National Automobile Dealers Association and the Kelly Blue Book have guidelines on the Internet to help donors determine the fair value of the vehicle that they will give to charity.

A vehicle categorized as "low value" will qualify the donor the lowest available tax deduction of $500. However, the deduction could go as high as $5,000 if the donated car is sold at a lucrative price in an auction or dealership.

Vehicles that can still perform near its optimum level can be used the by the charities for different operations such as transporting donated goods, elderly or disabled people or as training tools for auto mechanic students.

The following are some Houston charities accepting car donations.

Houston Audubon Society

The Houston Audobon Society is working towards the preservation and appreciation of birds and wildlife habitat. The non profit group is ably financially supported by donations from companies, foundations and individuals.

The organization is able to perform its mission by offering its 3,300 acres of sanctuaries as habitat for wildlife and by also providing education services for young people and adults. The Society continually monitors that condition of birds around the Houston area and is calling for continued support for its programs.

HoustonPBS

HoustonPBS accepts vehicle donations ranging from cars, motorcycles, campers, trucks, boats and other recreational units. The vehicle will be auctioned and earnings will directly go the charity. Cars that have irreparable damage or incomplete parts will not be accepted.

Under the newly implemented tax law, deductions can be equal to the gross proceeds from the sale of the donated car. Donors will receive an authentication letter detailing the gross sale amount within a month of the car's sale.

HoustonPBS does not charge towing fees. The donor will be required to present the following to complete the donation.

- the vehicle's keys

- title of the car

- authorization for the towing of the car

The donor will receive a towing receipt to verify the vehicle's transfer of custody to the HoustonPBS.

American Council of the Blind Car Donation Program

The American Council of the Blind accepts car donations that can include cars, trucks, trailers and boats. Proceeds generated from the donated vehicle will be used the fund the organization's various programs to assists visually-impaired and blind people.

The American Council of the Blind will pick up the car free of charge even if it is in poor running condition. Donors can claim a tax deduction for their contribution.