FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE VEHICLE DONATION PROGRAM…

What type of vehicles do you accept as donations?

We accept most cars, trucks, vans, fleet vehicles, trailers, boats, motorcycles, and RV’s. If you have any questions about what you can donate, please send us an email at membership@wfwa.org or call our vehicle donation program toll-free at 1-866-930-9392.

Is my car donation tax deductible?

Vehicles donated will benefit PBS Fort Wayne, a nonprofit classified with the IRS as a  501(c)(3) charitable organization and are tax deductible. For more information, you can check out A Donor’s Guide to Vehicle Donations (pdf).

What paperwork will I need for the DMV?

We will need a signed, clear title, free of all liens. If there is a lien listed on the front of the title, please include the original lien release. If you do not have a title, please call our donation department at 1-866-930-9392. Our title specialists can usually help obtain a duplicate title from your local motor vehicle department.

What if I lost the title?

Please call our donation department at 1-866-930-9392. Our title specialists can usually help obtain a duplicate title from your local motor vehicle department.

What does PBS Fort Wayne do with the vehicles?

The vehicles are sold at private auction. The proceeds are used to help support PBS Fort Wayne. Funds from vehicle donations help PBS Fort Wayne acquire and produce quality educational and entertainment programs and support our outreach efforts in the community.

Is my contribution tax-deductible?

Yes, people who donate vehicles to charities can claim the actual amount for which the vehicle sells at auction if your itemize your return.

Do I get a receipt for my donation which shows how much money my car raised for PBS Fort Wayne?

Yes, you will be mailed a receipt that shows the amount your donated vehicle brought in at Auction or $500, whichever is greater. You should expect to have your receipt of sale about four – eight weeks after you donate your vehicle.

Can I value my vehicle before I donate it to PBS Fort Wayne?

Many factors can contribute to the final selling price of any vehicle, including the make, model and year of your car, along with any mechanical or physical damage to the vehicle that could affect its value. PBS Fort Wayne’s vehicle donation representatives cannot guarantee the final selling price, which is your charitable contribution to PBS Fort Wayne.

My car hasn’t run in years. Can I still donate it?

Yes! We accept vehicle donations of all conditions. Your vehicle doesn’t need to run but you will need proof of ownership.

I donated my car several weeks ago but have not received my complimentary membership. When should I expect to receive it?

Often it takes four weeks from the moment your vehicle is picked up to the time PBS Fort Wayne receives notification of your donation. Then, it can take another couple of days to complete your membership and send it to you. You should receive your thank you letter approximately six to eight weeks from the date you donate your vehicle to PBS Fort Wayne.

How will my car be picked up?

We will arrange to have your vehicle towed away on a scheduled date previously agreed upon with you. We will NOT pick up a vehicle without first contacting you.

How can I schedule a pickup?

Please complete and submit our Vehicle Donation Form or call us 1-866-930-9392.


Your vehicle donation is still tax deductible and will fall into one of these categories:

  • 1. For low value vehicle donations you can claim the fair market value up to $500.00 without any additional paperwork besides the receipt we will provide at the time of the pickup.
  • 2. If you donate a car that is worth more than $500.00, your deduction will be limited to the actual sale price of your car donation. If your vehicle is sold, all proceeds will benefit PBS Fort Wayne, a 501(c)(3) charity. You will be provided with a receipt stating the final sales price of your vehicle within 30 days of the sale of your donated car. We will work to get top dollar for your car donation.