We understand that donating your car can come with uncertainty and skepticism about where your vehicle ends up and how it benefits others. At AutoLift, we want to demystify the donation process and provide you with a clear outline of what happens to your car from the moment we pick it up until you receive your tax receipt. Transparency is not just an option for us; it’s our standard.
This page will guide you through every step of your car’s journey after donation, ensuring you're informed and confident in your choice to support AutoLift. From the initial pickup to the eventual receipt of your tax deduction, we aim to provide clarity and reassurance throughout the entire process.
✓Key facts you can verify
- AutoLift is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity.
- We follow IRS guidelines for vehicle donation and tax receipts.
- Donors can verify AutoLift's charity status via IRS Pub 78.
- Our operations are transparent and documented through Form 990.
- AutoLift is registered with the New Mexico Attorney General's office.
- You can review our ratings on Charity Navigator and the Better Business Bureau.
- Donors receive a 1098-C receipt detailing the vehicle's sale price or fair market value.
How it works, step by step
Pickup (Day 0)
We schedule a convenient pickup time for your vehicle. Our team arrives promptly to collect the car, and you receive a donation agreement outlining your contribution.
Transport to Auction Lot (Day 0-5)
After pickup, your vehicle is transported to our secured auction lot. This process takes place within the first five days, ensuring your vehicle is safely stored.
Inspection + Title Verification (Day 3-10)
Our team inspects your vehicle for condition and confirms title validity during the first ten days. This ensures everything is legal and ready for auction.
Auction Listing (Day 7-21)
Your vehicle is listed for auction within two to three weeks, where potential buyers can view its details and place bids, maximizing proceeds for our programs.
Sale (Day 14-45)
The vehicle is sold through the auction process, typically within one to one and a half months. The actual sale price determines the tax deduction you will receive.
Proceeds Distribution (Day 30-60)
Once sold, the proceeds from your donation are allocated to support AutoLift's programs. This occurs within 30 to 60 days after the sale.
1098-C Receipt Mailed (Day 30-60)
You will receive your 1098-C tax receipt by mail within 30 days of the sale. This document specifies the sale price or fair market value of your vehicle.
Donor Tax Filing (Following Spring)
You can file your 1098-C receipt with your tax return the following spring, typically before the April tax-filing deadline.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS Pub 78 Lookup
How: Visit the IRS website to verify AutoLift’s status as a 501(c)(3) public charity using the Pub 78 tool. This confirms our legitimacy and compliance with IRS regulations.
✓ Charity Navigator Search
How: You can look up AutoLift on Charity Navigator to view our financial health, accountability, and transparency ratings, providing insight into our operations.
✓ Attorney General Registry
How: Check New Mexico's Attorney General's charity registry to see if AutoLift is listed among registered charities, confirming our legal compliance.
✓ Form 990 Retrieval
How: Access our Form 990, which details our financial operations and governance, through online databases like Guidestar, ensuring our transparency in fundraising and distribution.
✓ Better Business Bureau
How: Visit the BBB website to review AutoLift's ratings and customer reviews, providing additional assurance of our commitment to ethical practices.
Real impact, real numbers
Since our inception, AutoLift has helped over 1,000 families in New Mexico with essential transportation assistance, translating to over $500,000 in support. Your vehicle donations directly contribute to our programs, allowing us to provide reliable transportation for individuals seeking employment and essential services. Every donation not only ensures a smoother journey for those in need but also plays a vital role in strengthening community ties by fostering independence and mobility.
New Mexico oversight
In New Mexico, charities must register with the state and adhere to regulations set forth by the Attorney General. Donors can file complaints regarding any charity with the AG’s office. Local consumer protection resources are available to answer questions about charitable donations, ensuring that your contributions are directed to legitimate organizations like AutoLift.