Donating a car in memory of a beloved spouse, parent, or relative is a profound way to honor their legacy and love for their vehicle. At Revive Auto in St. Paul, we understand how important it is to remember those we've lost while helping others. By participating in our tribute donation program, you can ensure their memory lives on, while also providing a tax-deductible gift.
It's straightforward: simply ensure the vehicle title is in your name, and we can handle the rest. We will send a tribute notification card to the family, providing them with a heartfelt acknowledgment of your generous donation. You will receive an IRS tax receipt based on the vehicle's value, allowing you to claim the deduction on your tax return.
How to make it happen
Check Vehicle Title
Ensure the car title is currently in your name. If the title is still in the deceased's name, contact an estate attorney about transferring it, as it can complicate the donation process.
Complete the Donation Form
Fill out our online donation form. Indicate that the donation is in memory of your loved one, providing their name for our records and future family notifications.
Schedule Pickup
Once the form is complete, we'll arrange for a convenient pickup of the vehicle. Make sure to have the keys and any relevant paperwork ready for our driver.
Receive Tax Receipt
After the car is picked up, you will receive an IRS tax receipt based on the car's value. This can be used for your tax deduction when filing your returns.
Notify Family (Optional)
If you wish, we can send a tribute card to your loved one's family, letting them know about your generous donation in their memory.
Common gotchas
Title in Deceased's Name
Tip: If the vehicle title is still in the name of the deceased, you may need to go through the probate process to transfer ownership before donating.
Missing Keys or Paperwork
Tip: Make sure you have the car keys and any relevant documents ready on the day of pickup; missing items could delay the donation process.
Notification Preferences
Tip: If you want to notify the family, ensure you provide us with the correct contact information so we can send the tribute card.
Tax Receipt Limitations
Tip: Be aware that if the car sells for less than $500, the IRS requires specific reporting. Ensure you understand the implications for your tax situation.
If this path doesn't fit
If donating a car isn't feasible for your situation, consider other ways to honor your loved one. You might create a memorial fund or donate to a charity that resonates with their passions. Additionally, consider sharing their story online or organizing a local event in their memory as a meaningful tribute to their life.
St. Paul DMV specifics
In Minnesota, ensure you have the correct paperwork when donating your vehicle. This includes having a completed title transfer and possibly a lien release if applicable. Keep in mind that license plates must be surrendered to the DMV upon donation, and you may want to check with the Minnesota DMV for any additional requirements specific to your situation.