DONATE A CAR

Donate your car and show your support of San Diego Opera!

Interested in donating your vehicle to an organization you believe in? It's easy to make a contribution that supports San Diego Opera!

Here's how it works:

Just call Toll-Free 1-(888) 99-OPERA (888-996-7372) to speak to a San Diego Opera Vehicle Donation Representative or email donations@charitableautoresources.com at your convenience.
Our Representative will schedule a pickup that's convenient for you, and provide you with confirmation of your donation.
If your car sells for $500 or more at auction, you will be mailed an IRS tax form 1098c along with your thank you letter.
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 for donations in California

Does my car have to be running to qualify for donation?

No, the car must have an engine and be tow-able. Cars that are in extremely poor condition or far from our tow range may be declined, as the cost to tow them may be more than the value of the vehicle. Call our customer service representative to find out if your vehicle qualifies.

What paperwork do I need?

The only paperwork needed is a signed, clear title (pink slip). (Please note: a clear title indicates the title is in the name of the donor without a lien.) Our driver will provide you with a Release of Liability form which must be completed by the donor and mailed to the DMV within 5 business days of donation.

What if my car won't pass the smog test?

We can accept vehicles without a smog certificate or current registration.

What if I lost the title (pink slip)?

As long as you have a current registration, our driver can provide you with an Application for Duplicate Title to complete at the time of pick-up.

Do I get a receipt for my donation?

Yes, the driver will issue a tow receipt at the time of pick-up. This is not your final tax receipt. The tow receipt will indicate your name, the year, make, model and the condition of the vehicle you are donating.

If your vehicle sells for $500 or more:

A tax receipt with San Diego Opera's Federal ID number will be mailed to you within 30 days of the sale stating the amount of gross proceeds received from your vehicle. This will be your receipt for your charitable contribution.

After January 1, 2007, donors can claim the amount for which the vehicle sold as a deduction on their itemized tax return.

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.

What if my car is valued over $500?

Effective January 1, 2005, you will no longer be required to have vehicles appraised. The value you may claim will be the amount of gross proceeds received from your vehicle.

What does our organization do with donated vehicles?

The vehicles are sold at a private auction. The funds from vehicle donations support quality education and outreach programs and world-class opera in San Diego.