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Need financial assistance?

First, see if you qualify by using our online questionnaire:
Rent, SNAP or Utility Assistance? Then Call

311

Chicago

(877) 426-6515

Suburban Cook

(847) 782-4000

Lake County

Catholic Charities Administrative Offices - (312) 655-7000.

Catholic Charities Social Services - email GetHelp@catholiccharities.net, or call (312) 655-7700 in Chicago or (847) 782-4000 in Lake County and someone will assist you. Call volume is extremely high so email is recommended if you are unable to find what you need on the web site.

Counseling Support Line - (312) 948-6951, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

To donate to our work by phone, call (312) 948-6087. Every gift helps someone in need.


Vehicle Donations

To donate your car, motorcyle or truck please fill out the form below or call toll free (877) 786-GIVE / (877) 786-4483. We will schedule a free pickup that's convenient for you, and provide you with confirmation of your donation. If you have any questions, please take a look at our FAQs section by scrolling down the page.  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What are the benefits of donating my car to Catholic Charities?

Catholic Charities benefits by receiving cash donations to fund new and existing programs that will provide help and services to people of all ages, giving hope, courage and guidance.

You benefit by avoiding the costs associated with selling your car and reducing your taxable income.  Full resale value is tax deductible.  Vehicle pickup is free and IRS & Title documents are completed for you.  Easy process of your donation on-line or by phone. 

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Does my car have to be running to donate it?
No. In some cases we can take your car, running or not. However, it must have an engine and be tow-able. Contact a representative at (877) 786-4483 to find out if your vehicle qualities for pick-up.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Do you only accept cars for donation?
Many types of motor vehicles are accepted including boats, motorcycles, trucks, and cars, motor-homes, and airplanes. If you are uncertain as to whether or not your vehicle is eligible, please contact the vehicle donation program toll free at (877) 786-4483.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  How long will it take to pick up my vehicle?
In some cases, if we receive your call early in the day, a same-day pick can be available. A tow company will contact you within two to three business days. Call our representatives at (877) 786-4483.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Do I have to be with the vehicle at the time of pick-up?
No. Special arrangements can be made by calling our representatives.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What paperwork do I need?
The only paperwork needed is a signed, clear title. Have your title with you when you call-in your donation. [Please note: a clear title indicates the title is in the name of the donor without a lien].
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Do l need a smog certificate in order to donate my car?
For states that require smog certificates or safety inspections, you may donate your vehicle without these documents.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What if l receive legal notices?
In the rare event that you receive any notification of a lien sale, DMV action, or other activity related to your donated vehicle, please contact us at (877) 786-4483 immediately for assistance.

Tax Questions:

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  How does the new law effect my tax deduction?
You will receive IRS Form 1098-C, Contributions of Motor Vehicles, Boats, and Airplanes if the proceeds from the sale exceed $500, stating the amount of the gross proceeds from the sale of the donated vehicle.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Will I get a tax receipt for my donation?
Yes, you will receive an IRS Form 1098-C in the event that the sale of the vehicle exceeds $500. If the vehicle does not exceed $500, the thank you letter that you will receive can be used as a tax receipt.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What can I claim as a deduction?
According to the tax law effective January 1, 2005, if the claimed value of the donated vehicle exceeds $500, the taxpayer is limited to the gross proceeds of the sale. An IRS Form 1098-C, "Contributions of Motor Vehicles, Boats, and Airplanes" will be mailed to you within 30 days of the sale stating the amount of gross proceeds received from your car, provided your vehicle sold for more than $500 and you have submitted your social security number. This will be your tax receipt for your charitable contribution.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  How is the value determined on the vehicle donated?
The value is determined by the gross proceeds raised from the sale of the donated vehicle.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What if my car is valued over $5000?
Effective January l, 2005, you are no longer required to have vehicles appraised. The value you may claim will be the amount of gross proceeds received from your vehicle.