Donating your car, truck, motorcycle, boat, recreational vehicle or camper supports KCET and its inspiring mix of programming. And it's tax-deductible. All you need is a clear title, and we'll take care of the rest, including pick-up, at no cost to you.

If you're already a KCET member you will be offered either a one-year subscription to our insider newsletter, KCET Review, or a KCET tote bag.

If you need more information, check out our most frequently asked questions below.

What are the benefits of donating my vehicle to KCET?
KCET benefits by receiving a cash donation to fund our new and existing programs and increase community awareness through local events.

You benefit by being able to reduce your taxable income when taxes are itemized. Plus you avoid the costs associated with selling your car. No need to pay for advertising, no loss of privacy and possible security risk, and no need to pay for vehicle registration, insurance, and repairs to keep your car in running condition while you wait for a buyer.

Does KCET handle everything for me?
KCET is partnered with a company called CARS (Charitable Auto Resources, Inc) based in San Diego California. KCET has a contractual agreement with CARS to process all vehicle donations. CARS is owned and operated by a nonprofit social service agency that works with many public broadcasting stations and other non profit organizations across the country in outsourcing their vehicle donation program. KCET screened CARS thoroughly for customer service policies and references and selected them among many organizations. They have been chosen because of their expertise, and all calls and issues will ultimately be referred to CARS.

What does KCET do with the vehicles?
The vehicles are sold at private auction. Funds from vehicle donations are used by KCET to acquire and produce quality educational and entertainment programs and support our outreach efforts in the community.

Your contribution will have a lasting impact on our ability to bring you and your loved ones brilliant performance art shows, timely and informative local and global news, fun and educational children’s programs and much more.

Does my car have to be running to qualify for donation?
No, the car must have an engine, tires, and be towable. Cars that are in extremely poor condition may be declined, as the cost to tow them may be more than the value of the vehicle. Call our customer service representative at 1-866-KAR-KCET or submit our email form to find out if your vehicle qualifies.

What paperwork do I need?
You need only the signed, clear title or "pink slip." (Please note: a clear title indicates the title is in the name of the donor without a lien.)

What if my car won't pass the smog test?
We can accept vehicles without a smog certificate or current registration as long as there is a clear title.

What if I lost the title (pink slip)?
As long as you are the legal titleholder, our driver can pick up the vehicle and have you sign a duplicate title, which he will provide.

Do I get a receipt for my donation?
Yes, our driver will issue a tow receipt at the time of pick-up. The tow receipt will indicate your name, the year, make, model, mileage and the condition of the vehicle you are donating.

A tax receipt with our Federal ID number will be mailed to you within 30 days of the sale of your vehicle. The receipt will confirm the Year, Make, Model, Mileage and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), as well as the date of sale of your donated vehicle.

If your vehicle sells for more than $500 at auction, an IRS Form 1098C, stating the sale price will also be included with your receipt.

If your vehicle sells for less than $500, you will not receive an IRS Form 1098C as it is not necessary to submit this form if you claim a charitable deduction of less than $500 for your donation. You may use either the tow receipt or the receipt of sale from KCET as proof of donation for your records.

Is my contribution still deductible under the new tax laws?
Yes. According to the tax law effective January 1, 2005, if the claimed value of a donated vehicle exceeds $500, the taxpayer’s deduction is limited to the actual gross proceeds of the sale, and an IRS Form 1098C, verifying the gross proceeds (sale price) must be submitted with your tax return. If your vehicle sells for more than $500 at auction, an IRS Form 1098C confirming the sale price of your vehicle, will be included with your receipt of sale from KCET. If you claim less than $500 for your charitable deduction, no documentation is required by the IRS.

Can I estimate the value of my vehicle before I donate it to KCET?
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. KCET recommends Kelly Blue Book at www.kbb.com or Nada www.nadaguides.com as resources that may help you to estimate the value of your vehicle. KCET's vehicle donation representatives cannot guarantee the final selling price which is your charitable contribution to KCET.

Are all cars donated to KCET sold at auction?
No. Occasionally, cars that are donated to KCET do not sell at auction. In those cases, vehicles are sold for scrap.

What paperwork will I need for the DMV?
You will need to sign and file a release of liability and donation confirmation. Our driver will provide you with all the necessary paperwork and address. Once you sign the release of liability, you have five days to mail it to the DMV.

How quickly can my vehicle be picked up?
Vehicles are picked up at a time that is convenient for you. Appointments frequently can be made the same day you call, with some Saturday appointments available. Please call our representative to find out what times are available in your neighborhood.

How much of the profit from the donated car goes to KCET?
KCET receives 70 percent of the revenue generated from the sale of donated vehicles brought to auction, excluding transport fees.