Honoring the memory of a deceased loved one is a beautiful way to celebrate their life. At Vision Wheels, we understand that donating a vehicle can be an emotional yet significant act of remembrance. You can donate a car in memory of a spouse, parent, or relative, ensuring that their love for their vehicle continues to make a difference in the community.
When you make a donation in memory of a loved one, we will acknowledge this tribute in our records and can send a heartfelt notification card to their surviving family members. Just keep in mind that the title of the vehicle must be in your name for the donation to proceed smoothly.
How to make it happen
Check Vehicle Title
Verify that the vehicle's title is in your name. If the title is still in the name of the deceased, you may need to go through the probate process to transfer ownership before proceeding with the donation.
Complete Donation Form
Fill out our straightforward donation form, specifying that this donation is in memory of your loved one. Provide their name for us to include in our records and for the tribute notification card.
Schedule Pickup
Once your form is completed, schedule a convenient time for our team to pick up the vehicle. We’ll take care of all the logistics, ensuring a hassle-free donation experience.
Receive Confirmation and Tax Receipt
After your vehicle is picked up, you will receive an IRS tax receipt, which serves as a record of your donation. This document can be beneficial for your tax filings.
Tribute Card Sent
We will send a heartfelt tribute card to the family of your loved one, letting them know of your generous act in their memory. This gesture can bring comfort during a difficult time.
Common gotchas
Title Issues
Tip: Donors often forget that the car title must be in their name. If the title is still in the deceased's name, you may need to complete a probate process to transfer the title first.
Notification Timing
Tip: Be aware that if the donation process takes time, the tribute card notification may not reach the family immediately. Communicate with them to manage expectations.
Tax Receipt Limitations
Tip: Remember that the IRS tax receipt is issued to the current owner of the vehicle, not the deceased. Ensure you understand the tax implications for your donation.
If this path doesn't fit
If it proves unfeasible to donate the vehicle directly due to title issues or other complications, consider selling the vehicle and donating the proceeds in memory of your loved one. Alternatively, you may wish to contribute to a charitable organization or fund that reflects their values and interests.
Georgia DMV specifics
In Georgia, the DMV requires that the vehicle's title be transferred to the current owner's name for the donation process to occur. Make sure to release any liens and surrender the license plates when you donate. If the vehicle was jointly owned or still under the deceased's name, consult with an estate attorney regarding title transfer and probate requirements. This will streamline your donation process.