Frequently Asked Questions

We accept cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs, and trailers—running or not running. As long as you have a clear title in your name and the vehicle is accessible for towing, we can accept your donation.

Yes! We accept vehicles in any condition, whether they run or not. Our free towing service will pick up your vehicle regardless of its mechanical state.

Yes, you must have a valid title in your name to donate your vehicle. If you've lost your title, you can request a duplicate from your state's DMV. In some cases, we may be able to help with duplicate title processing—contact us for assistance.

Unfortunately, no. The vehicle must be fully paid off with no outstanding liens or loans. You need clear ownership to transfer the title to the charity.

The entire process typically takes 1-2 weeks from submission to completed pickup. Most vehicles are picked up within 24-48 hours of scheduling. You'll receive your tax receipt within 30 days of the vehicle sale.

No, absolutely not. The towing service is completely free. There are no hidden fees or charges. The only cost you might incur is if you need to obtain a duplicate title from your DMV.

Please have the following ready: (1) Signed vehicle title transferring ownership to the charity, (2) All vehicle keys if available, (3) Your photo ID (driver's license), (4) Remove all personal belongings from the vehicle.

You'll sign the title in the 'Seller' or 'Owner' section and transfer it to the charity. The tow truck driver or donation coordinator will provide specific instructions for your state. Do not sign the title until you're ready for pickup—signing too early can create complications.

Lost keys are generally not a problem. The towing company can still pick up the vehicle. Just let the donation coordinator know when scheduling your pickup.

Requirements vary by location. In many cases, you don't need to be present if you leave the signed title and keys in a safe, agreed-upon location. However, some states require the owner's presence. The donation coordinator will clarify requirements for your specific situation.

Requirements vary by state. In some states, you must remove and return license plates to the DMV; in others, they transfer with the vehicle. Check your state's DMV requirements or ask the donation coordinator.

Do not cancel your insurance until after the vehicle is picked up. Once the vehicle is towed, contact your insurance company to cancel coverage and potentially receive a refund for unused premium.

Your vehicle is processed by our partner CarEasy, who independently handles the processing and sells it through various channels including auctions, salvage/parts buyers, and private sales to maximize proceeds. IECRC does not have control over or influence on this processing and sales process. CarEasy retains approximately 30% of the proceeds to cover processing, towing, paperwork, and administrative costs. The remaining approximately 70% of the proceeds are donated to IECRC to support Islamic Center operations, Quran education programs, and orphanage support.

The tow truck driver will provide you with a receipt confirming the pickup. You should also receive a follow-up confirmation via email or phone from the donation coordinator.

Once the vehicle is picked up and the title is transferred, the donation is generally final. If you have concerns before pickup, contact the donation coordinator immediately to discuss your options.

The sale timeline varies depending on the vehicle's condition, make, model, and market demand. Most vehicles sell within 2-6 weeks of pickup. You'll receive your tax receipt (Form 1098-C) within 30 days of the sale.

Once you transfer the title and the vehicle is picked up, you are no longer the legal owner. However, to protect yourself, file a Notice of Transfer or Release of Liability with your state DMV immediately after donation. This officially notifies the state that you no longer own the vehicle.

No, vehicles donated through this program are sold by CarEasy (not given directly to IECRC). The net proceeds (approximately 70%) are then donated to IECRC. If you have a running vehicle and would prefer to donate it directly to IECRC for their use, please contact IECRC directly. IECRC may be able to handle direct donations depending on the vehicle's condition and location, while CarEasy can handle most vehicles, running or not.

Your deduction amount depends on your vehicle's sale price:

If it sells for $500 or less: You can deduct the fair market value up to $500.

If it sells for more than $500: You deduct the actual sale price as documented on IRS Form 1098-C.

For vehicles valued over $5,000, you must obtain a qualified written appraisal.

You'll receive IRS Form 1098-C within 30 days of your vehicle donation (if valued under $500) or within 30 days of the vehicle sale (if sold for over $500). This form is required to claim your tax deduction.

Form 1098-C is the official IRS document required for vehicle donation tax deductions. It includes the charity's information, your vehicle details, donation date, and sale price (if over $500). You must attach this form to your tax return when claiming the deduction.

No, you must itemize deductions on Schedule A of your tax return to claim a vehicle donation deduction. If you take the standard deduction, you cannot claim this charitable contribution. Consult with a tax professional to determine which approach is best for your situation.

You need a qualified written appraisal only if your vehicle is valued at more than $5,000. For vehicles under $5,000, you can determine fair market value using pricing guides like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or NADA.

It depends on your tax situation and vehicle condition. If your vehicle needs expensive repairs or has low resale value, donation may be more convenient and potentially more valuable when factoring in the tax deduction. Consult with a tax professional to evaluate your specific circumstances.

When you donate your vehicle to support Muslim charitable causes, the proceeds are used in accordance with Sadaqah Nafilah (voluntary charity) principles. The funds support vital community programs including Islamic Center operations, Quran education, and orphanage support.

It is important to understand the requirements of Zakat and to whom it can be given. Please contact IECRC to speak with a Muslim Scholar to discuss specifics about Vehicle Donation and whether (and to what amount) it would qualify for Zakat.

Yes, vehicle donation to legitimate Muslim charitable organizations is halal. Donating valuable property to support religious and charitable causes has strong precedent in Islamic history. Ensure you donate to reputable 501(c)(3) organizations like IECRC.

Receiving a tax deduction is permissible—it's a lawful benefit provided by the government.

For religious questions about Zakat, specific Islamic rulings, or individual circumstances, please contact IECRC and ask to speak to a scholar about a potential vehicle donation.

The Islamic Educational and Cultural Research Center (IECRC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, non-political organization dedicated to promoting Islamic education, cultural understanding, and community support. Your vehicle donation proceeds directly support their programs including Islamic Center operations, Quran education, and orphanage support.

Approximately 70% of your vehicle's sale proceeds are donated to IECRC. Our partner CarEasy retains approximately 30% to cover processing costs including towing, paperwork, auction fees, and administrative expenses. If you have a running vehicle and want to maximize the donation value, consider contacting IECRC directly to arrange a direct donation (subject to vehicle condition and location).

Currently, this platform specifically supports IECRC. IECRC has a variety of religious activities including Holy Quran and Arabic teaching, Islamic Center Operations, and Counseling.

If you would like your donation proceeds to support a specific cause or program at IECRC, you can contact IECRC directly either before or after your donation to discuss what can be arranged or communicated. Ideally, you should reach out before making your donation to ensure your preferences can be accommodated.