My sixteen-year-old son has struggled to get this far in high school. At this point, we know that he will not be attending a college to become a doctor or lawyer, but that he will be going to a trade school instead. Why would we make this plan so soon? Will he really benefit from going to a trade school and not a college? There are so many benefits to going to a trade school, and if you visit my blog, you will learn what those benefits are. Hopefully, you will gain a better understanding of how a trade school can help a struggling student create a career plan that is reachable.
Whether you're being generous or just looking for an additional tax write-off, donating your car to a good cause can have a major impact. Before you hand over your keys, it's important to address a few details to ensure that the organization receiving it can get the most use out of it for their purposes. How much you need to put into the vehicle before your car donation is accepted really depends on where you're donating it.
Working Vehicles
With functional cars, trucks, and other vehicles, it's a good idea to address any mechanical or electrical problems you've already identified. This will cut down on the expense that the charitable organization will incur before they can make use of your generosity. Basic maintenance is also a good idea, such as tire rotation and oil changes as necessary.
If any of the vehicle's needs stretch beyond your budget then make sure you inform the recipient of anything you know that should be dealt with soon. You should also include any documents about inspections required for licensing, which will ensure that any new registration tags can be issued without any speed bumps. You may not be able to include these repair costs in your federal tax return, but check with your accountant first to be sure what your state will allow.
Non-Working Vehicles
Just because the engine won't turn over doesn't mean a vehicle can't benefit someone. Your car donations can benefit trade schools and community colleges or local public schools with an automotive curriculum. You won't be alone in your crusade, so call around to find out whether or not there is a need for your clunker before you have it towed in.
Since the vehicle will be a project or parts repository, there's no need to renew the registration; but that doesn't mean there aren't tasks to perform. Make notes of any issues for the instructor to use for guidance during courses, and include any details you've already been given by other mechanics about what's ailing your old car. It's also a good idea to ask in advance whether or not you should have fluids drained from the engine, as some organizations can't make immediate use of all the vehicles they take in. Some automotive fluids can become caustic or corrosive if left to sit for a long time, and draining them will prevent this from becoming a problem.
Whether it ends up helping future mechanics learn their trade or helps a family find their feet again, donating your car can change a life. Make sure your charitable donation does as much good as possible, rather than just padding your tax return.
Share27 January 2016
