Vehicle Donation FAQs

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 call 1-855-920-0978.

Is my car donation tax deductible?

Vehicles donated will benefit the Friends of Wisconsin Public Television, a nonprofit classified with the IRS as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, and are tax deductible. For more information, see 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 1-855-920-0978. 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 1-855-920-0978. Our title specialists can usually help obtain a duplicate title from your local motor vehicle department.

What does PBS Wisconsin do with the vehicles?

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

Is my contribution still deductible under the new tax laws?

Yes, under the new tax law effective in 2005, people who donate vehicles to charities can claim the actual amount for which the vehicle sells at auction.

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

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 to eight weeks after you donate your vehicle.

Can I value my vehicle before I donate it?

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 Wisconsin’s vehicle donation representatives cannot guarantee the final selling price, which is your charitable contribution to the Friends of Wisconsin Public Television.

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 first issue of Airwaves, PBS Wisconsin’s member guide. When should I expect to receive it?

Often it takes four weeks from the moment your vehicle is picked up to the time PBS Wisconsin receives notification of your donation. Then, it can take another two to four weeks to complete your membership and send your first issue of Airwaves. It should arrive within six to eight weeks from the date you donate your vehicle to the Friends of Wisconsin Public Television. If you are currently a member and it’s time to renew, your vehicle donation will renew your membership.

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 at 1-855-920-0978.

Car donation tax laws in effect as of Jan. 1st, 2005

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 the Friends of Wisconsin Public Television, 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.