Donating your vehicle is a generous and impactful choice, but it’s natural to have questions about what happens next. At Wheels of Change, we prioritize transparency and want to ensure you feel confident about your decision to support our mission. In this guide, we outline the complete timeline from the moment we pick up your car to when you receive your tax receipt.
Our goal is to clarify the process, alleviate any skepticism, and show you how your donation helps us provide vital transportation assistance to those in need throughout Atlanta. Each step of the donation process is designed to maximize the impact of your generosity while upholding the highest standards of accountability and trust.
✓Key facts you can verify
- Wheels of Change is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity.
- Each vehicle donation helps fund transportation assistance programs in Atlanta.
- Donors can claim deductions based on actual sale price or fair market value.
- Donors receive a 1098-C tax receipt for their records.
- Wheels of Change undergoes annual audits and is listed on Charity Navigator.
- The organization is subject to oversight by the Georgia Attorney General's office.
How it works, step by step
Pickup (Day 0)
Your vehicle is picked up at the designated location, and you receive an initial acknowledgment of your donation. This is the start of the process, assuring you that we’ve begun handling your car responsibly.
Transport to Auction Lot (Day 0-5)
The vehicle is transported to our auction lot, where it will be prepared for inspection and listing. This ensures that your car is handled with care during this crucial transition period.
Inspection + Title Verification (Day 3-10)
Our team conducts a thorough inspection of the vehicle and verifies the title. This step is essential for ensuring legal compliance and determining the best path for your car, whether for auction or program use.
Auction Listing (Day 7-21)
Once inspected, the vehicle is listed for auction. This period allows us to reach potential buyers and maximize the sale price, ensuring that your contribution makes a significant impact.
Sale (Day 14-45)
The vehicle is sold at auction. Depending on various factors, sales can occur within two weeks to a month and a half. The gross proceeds from the sale will directly support our programs.
Proceeds Distribution (Day 30-60)
Funds from the sale are distributed to support ongoing Wheels of Change programs. This typically occurs within 30 to 60 days post-sale, ensuring swift utilization of your generous donation.
1098-C Receipt Mailed (Day 30-60)
Within 30 days of the sale, you will receive your 1098-C tax receipt by mail. This document will support your tax deduction when you file your return. Donors typically receive this before the April filing deadline.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS Pub78 Lookup
How: You can independently verify our nonprofit status using the IRS Pub78 database, which lists 501(c)(3) charities like Wheels of Change, ensuring your donation is tax-deductible.
✓ Charity Navigator Search
How: Explore Wheels of Change on Charity Navigator to review our ratings, financial health, and transparency practices. We strive for excellence in these key areas to earn your trust.
✓ Attorney General Registry
How: Check the Georgia Attorney General's charity registry for our registration and compliance status. This public record helps ensure that we operate within state guidelines for charities.
✓ Form 990 Retrieval
How: Our Form 990 filings are available online, detailing our finances and governance. These documents are a valuable resource for understanding how we allocate funds towards our mission.
✓ Better Business Bureau Accreditation
How: Visit the Better Business Bureau website to find our accreditation status. We value our reputation and are committed to ethical practices in all our operations.
Real impact, real numbers
Each car donation contributes significantly to our mission at Wheels of Change. For instance, the proceeds from a single vehicle can fund transportation for over 50 individuals in need within our community. In 2022, our program assisted over 1,200 residents of Atlanta, providing essential rides to work, medical appointments, and educational opportunities. Your generosity directly empowers these individuals, helping them overcome transportation barriers and create brighter futures.
Atlanta oversight
In Atlanta, Wheels of Change operates with the oversight of the Georgia Secretary of State and the Attorney General's office, ensuring compliance with state regulations. If there are any concerns regarding our charity, Georgia residents have access to a complaint process overseen by the Attorney General. Additionally, local consumer protection resources are available to help you feel secure in your charitable giving.