At Wheel Give Back, we recognize that potential donors often have valid questions about the fate of their vehicles after donation. Transparency is the cornerstone of our operations, and we strive to ensure that you are fully informed every step of the way. This page outlines the entire process from your initial vehicle pickup to receiving your tax receipt, providing clarity on how your generous donation supports our community.
We believe that understanding the timeline and procedures surrounding your car donation helps to build trust and confidence. Every vehicle is handled with care and purpose, whether it’s sold at auction or used directly in our programs. We invite you to explore the entire journey of your donation, see the tangible impact, and appreciate the financial benefits it provides for you during tax season.
✓Key facts you can verify
- Wheel Give Back is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity.
- Vehicles sold support local programs, maximizing community impact.
- Donors receive IRS Form 1098-C detailing the vehicle's sale or fair market value.
- Transparency ensures donors can verify our operations through multiple channels.
- We are registered with the Virginia Attorney General's office for oversight.
- All donations are eligible for tax deductions according to IRS regulations.
- Your vehicle is either sold at auction or used in our mission-driven services.
How it works, step by step
Pickup (Day 0)
On the day you donate your car, our team arranges for its pickup at your convenience. We ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed, making the process hassle-free for you.
Transport to Auction Lot (Day 0-5)
After pickup, your vehicle is transported to our secure auction lot within five days. This facility is where we prepare the vehicle for an upcoming auction, ensuring optimal conditions for potential buyers.
Inspection + Title Verification (Day 3-10)
Within three to ten days, our team conducts a thorough inspection of your vehicle to verify its condition and title. This step is crucial for ensuring the vehicle meets auction standards and complies with all legal requirements.
Auction Listing (Day 7-21)
Once inspected, your vehicle is listed for auction within seven to twenty-one days. We ensure it reaches a broad audience, leading to a greater chance of sale at a favorable price.
Sale (Day 14-45)
The auction process typically spans two to six weeks. Once sold, the proceeds from the sale are earmarked for distribution to support our community programs, and you will receive a detailed tax receipt.
Proceeds Distribution (Day 30-60)
After the sale, the proceeds are distributed to our various programs that provide essential services to the community. You can be assured that your donation is working hard to help those in need.
1098-C Receipt Mailed (Day 30-60)
Within thirty to sixty days or within thirty days of the sale, you will receive IRS Form 1098-C in the mail. This receipt will reflect the sale amount, ensuring you have the necessary documentation for your tax return.
Verify it yourself
✓ Verify Charity Status
How: Check our 501(c)(3) status on the IRS Pub 78 database to confirm our eligibility as a tax-exempt organization.
✓ Review Charity Ratings
How: Search for Wheel Give Back on Charity Navigator or GuideStar to evaluate our transparency, financial health, and accountability.
✓ State Charity Registration
How: Visit the Virginia Attorney General's website to check our registration and compliance status as a local charity.
✓ Access Financial Reports
How: Retrieve our Form 990 from the IRS or Guidestar to review our financial performance and how donations are allocated.
✓ Consumer Protection Resources
How: Utilize resources available through the Better Business Bureau to assess our reputation and any consumer complaints.
Real impact, real numbers
Every vehicle donation to Wheel Give Back helps fund critical transportation assistance programs for families in need. For instance, last year, we facilitated over 300 rides for low-income individuals, enabling them to access jobs and essential services. With an average sale price of $3,500 per vehicle, your generous contributions have directly impacted our community, empowering those who need it most. Together, we've raised over $1 million in resources that support our local initiatives and provide lasting change.
Norfolk oversight
In Norfolk and across Virginia, charitable organizations are held to rigorous standards by the Virginia Attorney General’s office. This oversight ensures that we operate legitimately and ethically. If you have any concerns regarding our organization, you may file a complaint with the Attorney General’s office. Locally, the Better Business Bureau also offers resources to investigate charities, helping to keep the community informed and protected from fraud.