The GOODWHEELS Program is a vehicle donation program that allows Rappahannock Goodwill Industries to give donated vehicles (cars/trucks/vans), in good working and safe condition that qualifies for the program, to people in need of transportation to obtain, and keep a job. The program gives people in need the opportunity to work with dignity and live independently in our region.

Will I get a good tax deduction?

Yes, and if you qualify for the program, you will be elibible for an even better one.

Here’s basically how we understand it works. Under the old IRS tax code “prior” to January 1, 2005, you could donate your vehicle and claim the “Fair Market Value” (or Kelly Bluebook) for your vehicle on your taxes. However, that law changed on January 1, 2005. We understand that now you must claim the amount that your donated vehicle sells for when our charity sells it at an auto auction. However, the GOODWHEELS Program is a great way for YOU and GOODWILL to benefit from your donated vehicle. If your vehicle qualifies for our program, it is given (by Goodwill) to a person in need of transportation and YOU can claim FAIR MARKET VALUE of the vehicle on your taxes! Why? The vehicle is not being sold. It is being given directly (through Goodwheel’s program) to a person who needs dependable transportation to get to work. That’s a great deal for everyone!
(Note: Always check with your tax advisor or accountant for professional tax advice. The above information is only our opinion and understanding of the new tax law.)

How does my vehicle “Qualify” for the program?

All vehicles donated to Goodwill are evaluated by an independent inspector. If your vehicle is in good running and safe condition and only requires minor repairs (not to exceed $500), it can qualify for the GOODWHEELS Program. If your vehicle DOES NOT QUALIFY for the program, Goodwill will sell it at public auction and you still get to claim the amount it sold for on your taxes.

What do I need to do?

Just bring your vehicle to any Goodwill store with your title by December 31st and we will process your donation, help you with the paperwork, and mail you a receipt for your tax filing.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q:  What vehicles and other items can I donate?
A:  You can donate autos, trucks, vans, motor homes, RVs, trailers, boats, jet skis & other watercraft, farm tractors and equipment, and mobile homes.

Q:  Where can I take the donations?
A:  You can drive or transport them to any of Rappahannock Goodwill’s Retail Stores, located in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Tappahannock, Culpeper or Louisa. Call any of our locations to arrange to have your vehicle picked up.

Q:  If I take my vehicle to a donation site, what am I responsible for?
A:  You must take the vehicle or equipment to a donation site during regular store/donation center hours. Ask to see the manager on duty, who will ask for your title and will make certain the title is signed correctly by all parties. License plates are removed and given to you, and you will be provided an appropriate tax receipt.

Q:  If I cannot drive or transport my vehicle/equipment donation, can it be picked it?
A:  Yes. We prefer to have your vehicle picked up, at no charge to you.

Q:  What information must I provide Goodwill in order to make arrangements to donate my vehicle/equipment?
A:  You must provide your name, phone number, and year/make/model of the vehicle.

Q:  When will my vehicle be picked up?
A:  After Goodwill receives the information from you with a request to pick up your donated vehicle, we contact a vechicle towing service. The towing service will contact you to arrange for a day and time to pick up your vehicle/equipment. At the time of the pick-up, the towing service will give you a "pick up" receipt, and Goodwill will mail you a tax receipt.

Q:  Will you pick up any vehicle/equipment donation, no matter what the condition?
A:  If the towing service deems your vehicle/equipment unsuitable for pick up, Goodwill has authorized them to decline the donation.

Q:  Will you accept vehicles with out of state titles?
A:  Yes.

Q:  What happens to my donated vehicle or equipment?
A:  You donation will help people in need in this community, either directly or indirectly, have a vehicle so they can work. Even if your donation doesn’t directly help an individual with his or her transportation problem, the proceeds from the sale of your donation will help many people in our area who need work or work training.