Car Donation Frequently Asked Questions
We’re here to help with the donation process every step of the way. If you have any questions, please call us at 855-500-7433 during regular business hours, or visit our full Chicago Car Donation FAQs here.
How do I donate my car?
Donating your vehicle is simple! Call us at 855-500-7433 or fill out our online donation form to provide details about your car. Our partner, CARS, will handle the rest, including pick-up and paperwork.
How much will Cats In Action receive from my car donation?
The donation amount will depend on the sale value of the vehicle. Cats In Action will receive at least 70% of the net proceeds from the sale of the donated vehicle. The average donation value is about $1,000, which is an incredible contribution towards helping cats in need!
What types of vehicles can I donate?
We accept cars, trucks, RVs, motorcycles, and boats—running or not. If you have questions about a specific vehicle, please reach out to us. The vehicle must be in one piece and towable.
Can I donate a vehicle that doesn’t run?
Yes! Non-running vehicles can still help. As long as they’re towable and in one piece, we’ll arrange free pickup, and your donation still makes a big impact.
Is my vehicle donation tax-deductible?
Yes! Cats In Action is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and vehicle donations qualify as a tax-deductible gift. After your vehicle is sold, you’ll receive a tax receipt for your records.
How is the value of my tax deduction determined?
Most vehicles are sold through local wholesale auctions, and we work to get the highest return per vehicle. According to the IRS Guidelines, donors may claim the fair market value for their vehicle donation up to the actual sale value. If a vehicle is sold for more than $500, the maximum amount of your deduction will be the sales price of the vehicle, which will be listed on your IRS Form 1098-C.
How do I transfer the title?
The vehicle title transfer requirements are different in each state. Our vehicle donation program and our vendors/auction yards will help you take the correct steps to ensure that your title paperwork is transferred correctly at the time of your vehicle pick-up. More information on Title Transfers can be found here.
What do I do with my license plates in Illinois?
Keep your license plates after donation. In Illinois, plates remain with the owner and should be removed prior to pickup.
Donate your car today and save lives!
Your unused or unwanted vehicle can help save the lives of community cats! Cats In Action’s Vehicle Donation Program makes it easy to turn your car, truck, RV, motorcycle, or boat into lifesaving care for cats in need. Your generous donation will support rescue efforts, trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs, veterinary care, and community education initiatives. The proceeds from your vehicle donation help provide medical treatment, food, and safe shelter for countless cats.
You can make a difference today by donating your car to Cats In Action and giving stray and feral cats a second chance at life.
