Wondering what to do with your surplus vehicle? Donate your used car, boat, truck, or recreational vehicle and show your support of the educational mission of the tall ships Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain! It’s simple, easy, and it helps you as well with a tax deduction. You avoid the hassle of advertising, loss of privacy and security risks, and you don’t have to wait for a buyer. Proceeds from the sale of the vehicle go directly to supporting our tall ship education programs.
The Historical Seaport has partnered with Charitable Auto Resources of San Diego, which specializes in handling vehicle donations for non-profit organizations around the country.
To donate your vehicle, use our online donation form, send email to donations@charitableautoresources.com or call toll-free 877-537-5277 to speak to a Vehicle Donation Representative. The representative will schedule a pick-up time that’s convenient for you, and provide you with confirmation of your donation.
If the gross proceeds from the sale of your donated vehicle are $500 or more, and if you provide your Social Security number to our representative at the time of your donation, you will also receive an IRS tax form 1098C stating the sale price of the vehicle. This amount is what you actually claim on the itemized tax return.
According to the tax law effective January 1, 2005, if the claimed value of the donated vehicle exceeds $500, the taxpayer is limited to the gross proceeds of the sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What are the benefits of donating my vehicle to the Historical Seaport?
The Historical Seaport and the tall ships Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain benefit by receiving a cash donation to fund new and existing programs and increase community awareness.
You benefit by being able to reduce your taxable income when taxes are itemized. Plus you avoid the costs associated with selling your car. No need to pay for advertising, no loss of privacy and possible security risk, and no need to pay for vehicle registration, insurance, and repairs to keep your car in running condition while you wait for a buyer.
Does my car have to be running to donate it?
No. In some cases we can take your car, running or not. However, it must have an engine and be tow-able. Contact a representative at 877-537-5277 to find out if your vehicle qualifies for pick-up.
Do you only accept cars for donation?
Many types of motor vehicles are accepted, including boats, motorcycles, trucks, automobiles, motor-homes, airplanes, time-shares, and even houses. If you are uncertain as to whether or not your vehicle is eligible, please contact the vehicle donation representative toll free at 877-537-5277.
How long will it take to pick up my vehicle?
We make donating your car as simple and convenient as possible. In some cases, if we receive your call early in the day, a same-day pick can be available. A tow company will contact you within two to three business days. Call our representatives at 877-537-5277.
Do I have to be with the vehicle at the time of pick-up?
No. Special arrangements can be made by calling our representatives.
Grays Harbor Historical Seaport Authority
800-200-5239 | ghhsa_admin@historicalseaport.org

What paperwork do I need?
The only paperwork needed is a signed, clear title. Have your title with you when you call us to discuss your donation. [Please note: a clear title indicates the title is in the name of the donor without a lien].
Do I need a smog certificate in order to donate my car?
For states that require smog certificates or safety inspections, you may donate your vehicle without these documents.
What if I receive legal notices?
In the rare event that you receive any notification of a lien sale, DMV action, or other activity related to your donated vehicle, please contact us at 877-537-5277 immediately for assistance.
Tax Questions
How does the new law effect my tax deduction?
You will receive IRS Form 1098-C, Contributions of Motor Vehicles, Boats, and Airplanes if the proceeds from the sale exceed $500, stating the amount of the gross proceeds from the sale of the donated vehicle.
Will I get a tax receipt for my donation?
Yes, you will receive an IRS Form 1098C in the event that the sale of the vehicle exceeds $500. If the sale does not exceed $500, the thank-you letter that you will receive can used as a tax receipt.
What can I claim as a deduction?
According to the tax law effective January 1, 2005, if the claimed value of the donated vehicle exceeds $500, the taxpayer is limited to the gross proceeds of the sale.
An IRS Form 1098-C, “Contributions of Motor Vehicles, Boats, and Airplanes” will be mailed to you within 30 days of the sale stating the amount of gross proceeds received from your car, provided your vehicle sold for more than $500 and you have submitted your Social Security number. This will be your tax receipt for your charitable contribution.
How is the value determined on the vehicle donated?
The value is determined by the gross proceeds raised from the sale of the donated vehicle.
What if my car is valued over $5000?
Effective January 1, 2005, you are no longer required to have vehicles appraised. The value you may claim will be the amount of gross proceeds received from your vehicle.
Note: The contents of this document do not constitute tax advice. Please consult with your tax advisor or visit the Internal Revenue Service website, http://www.irs.gov, for more information.