Donating your car can be a generous act, but it’s natural to have questions about where your vehicle goes and how it benefits the community. At Rev Up Local, we believe in transparency and want you to feel informed every step of the way. This page outlines each stage of the donation process, from the moment we pick up your vehicle to when you receive your tax receipt.
We recognize that understanding the timeline and procedure can dispel doubts. By providing clear details about the journey of your vehicle, we aim to foster trust and reassurance. Explore this detailed outline to see how your car donation supports our mission and how you can benefit from it come tax season.
✓Key facts you can verify
- Rev Up Local is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity.
- Donors can check charity status through the IRS pub78 lookup.
- All vehicles are either auctioned or used directly for charity programs.
- Donors receive a 1098-C form for tax purposes based on the vehicle's final sale price.
- Our financials are publicly available via Form 990 on IRS and Charity Navigator.
- St. Louis residents can contact the Missouri Attorney General for charity oversight.
How it works, step by step
Pickup (Day 0)
Once you schedule your car donation, our team promptly arranges a pickup at your convenience. We handle all aspects of the towing process to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Transport to Auction Lot (Day 0-5)
After pickup, your vehicle is transported to our secure auction lot. This takes place within the first five days, ensuring that your donation is promptly processed and prepared for the next steps.
Inspection + Title Verification (Day 3-10)
Within a few days, our team performs a thorough inspection of your vehicle and verifies the title. This process ensures the vehicle meets all eligibility requirements before proceeding further.
Auction Listing (Day 7-21)
Once inspected, your vehicle is listed for auction. This typically occurs within 21 days of donation, maximizing exposure to potential buyers who may be interested in your vehicle.
Sale (Day 14-45)
The auction process can take anywhere from 14 to 45 days, depending on market conditions. The final sale price will dictate the amount reflected on your 1098-C tax receipt.
Proceeds Distribution (Day 30-60)
After the sale, we allocate the proceeds from your vehicle. This can occur within 30 to 60 days post-sale, supporting our various local initiatives.
1098-C Receipt Mailed (Day 30-60)
You will receive your 1098-C tax receipt via mail within 30 days of the sale. This document details the actual sale price of your vehicle for tax deduction purposes.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS pub78 Lookup
How: Verify Rev Up Local's status as a recognized 501(c)(3) organization by using the IRS pub78 tool, ensuring your donation is tax-deductible.
✓ Charity Navigator Search
How: Visit Charity Navigator to review our ratings and financials. This independent evaluation provides insight into our accountability and transparency.
✓ Attorney General Registry
How: Consult the Missouri Attorney General's office to find registered charities and check whether we are compliant with state regulations.
✓ Form 990 Retrieval
How: Access our publicly available Form 990, which outlines our financial performance and operational transparency, through platforms like Guidestar and the IRS.
✓ Better Business Bureau (BBB) Review
How: Look up Rev Up Local on the BBB website to view our ratings, customer reviews, and any ethical concerns, providing additional reassurance.
Real impact, real numbers
Since our inception, Rev Up Local has utilized vehicle donations to support over 500 local families in need of transportation assistance. Each donated car contributes directly to programs providing affordable transport solutions, helping individuals access jobs and medical appointments. In the last year alone, we have generated over $100,000 in proceeds, which have been reinvested into the St. Louis community, creating a measurable impact on lives and livelihoods.
St. Louis oversight
Rev Up Local operates in compliance with Missouri regulations, and we are monitored by the state's charity registrar. If you have concerns about our operations, the Missouri Attorney General provides a complaint process to ensure accountability. Additionally, local consumer protection resources are available to assist with any issues or inquiries you may have regarding charitable donations in the St. Louis area.
FAQ
How do I know my car donation is legitimate?
What happens if my vehicle doesn't sell at auction?
How is the value of my car determined for tax purposes?
Can I donate a vehicle that isn't running?
When will I receive my tax receipt?
Is my donation tax-deductible?
What charitable programs benefit from my donation?
More transparency pages
If you're ready to make a difference through a car donation, we invite you to take the next step. Contact us today to schedule your pickup and join us in supporting the St. Louis community. Together, we can empower those in need and create a lasting impact.