We recognize that donating your car is a significant decision, and skepticism is a natural part of the process. At Alabamotion, we prioritize transparency, allowing you to see exactly how your vehicle donation is utilized and the benefits it brings to our community. This page outlines the journey your car takes after donation, providing a clear timeline that illustrates our commitment to integrity.
Whether your vehicle is sold at an auction or utilized directly for charitable programs, we ensure that you receive a meaningful tax deduction. Transparency is the norm at Alabamotion, and we invite you to explore the details of what happens after your vehicle is picked up, all the way to when you receive your tax receipt.
✓Key facts you can verify
- Alabamotion is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity.
- Every donation is tracked and monitored for transparency.
- Vehicles sold at auction generate gross proceeds for tax deductions.
- Donors receive a 1098-C tax receipt for their contributions.
- Alabamotion is registered with the Alabama Attorney General's office.
- We undergo rigorous annual reporting as per IRS requirements.
How it works, step by step
Pickup (Day 0)
Once you schedule your car donation, our team will arrange for pickup at your convenience. This is the start of your vehicle's journey, and we ensure an easy and hassle-free process.
Transport to Auction Lot (Day 0-5)
After pickup, your vehicle is transported to our secure auction lot where it is stored safely. This period allows us to prepare for the next steps of the donation process.
Inspection + Title Verification (Day 3-10)
Your vehicle undergoes a thorough inspection and title verification. This step is critical to ensure the vehicle can be sold or used for our charitable purposes, maintaining compliance with all regulations.
Auction Listing (Day 7-21)
Following inspection, your vehicle is listed for auction. Our team works to create an appealing listing to maximize proceeds, ensuring that your donation has the greatest possible impact.
Sale (Day 14-45)
The auction process takes place, with sales occurring anywhere from 14 to 45 days after listing. The final sale price will determine the deduction you can claim, reflecting the actual sale price on your 1098-C.
Proceeds Distribution (Day 30-60)
Once sold, proceeds from the sale are accounted for, allowing us to fund our programs. This typically occurs within 30 to 60 days post-sale, contributing directly to our mission.
1098-C Receipt Mailed (Day 30-60)
You will receive your 1098-C receipt within 30 days of the sale or by the end of 60 days post-donation. This document is essential for your tax return, confirming the charitable nature of your donation.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS Pub. 78 Lookup
How: Verify our tax-exempt status by checking the IRS Pub 78 database online. This confirms Alabamotion is recognized as a legit 501(c)(3) organization.
✓ Charity Navigator Search
How: Look up Alabamotion on Charity Navigator to review our financial health, accountability, and transparency ratings. This provides an independent assessment of our operations.
✓ Attorney General Registry
How: Consult the Alabama Attorney General’s charity registry to confirm that Alabamotion is properly registered and compliant with state fundraising laws, ensuring your donation is secure.
✓ Form 990 Retrieval
How: Obtain our Form 990, which provides detailed financial information about Alabamotion. This document is available on platforms like Guidestar and provides insight into our funding and expenses.
✓ Better Business Bureau Accreditation
How: Check our BBB accreditation to learn about our commitment to resolving donor issues and maintaining high ethical standards. The BBB provides ratings based on customer feedback and business practices.
Real impact, real numbers
Every donation to Alabamotion directly supports our programs that assist local residents in need. For example, with the proceeds from just one vehicle, we provided transportation assistance to over 50 families, ensuring they can access job opportunities and essential services. In 2022 alone, our vehicle donations contributed over $150,000 towards community development and assistance programs, demonstrating how your contribution makes a substantial impact.
Alabama oversight
In Alabama, we are governed by strict regulations set forth by the state’s charity registrar, ensuring our accountability to donors. If you have concerns about your donation, you can file a complaint with the Alabama Attorney General’s office. Additionally, local consumer protection resources are available to help donors better understand their rights and protect against potential fraud.