When you decide to donate your vehicle, we recognize that you might have questions about what really happens to your car and how your contribution is utilized. It's completely natural to be skeptical, especially when it comes to charitable organizations. Here at Indy Car Connect, we place a high priority on transparency—ensuring that you understand every step of the process and see the positive impact your donation has on our community.
This page outlines our sequential process from the moment your vehicle is picked up to when you receive your tax receipt. We aim to provide clarity and reassurance, demonstrating that your generous donation is handled with care and integrity, allowing you to feel confident in your choice to support a cause that benefits many.
✓Key facts you can verify
- Indy Car Connect is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
- Donors can check our IRS status through the Pub 78 IRS lookup.
- We conduct thorough inspections and title verification for all donated vehicles.
- Vehicles sold at auction will earn donors gross proceeds, while those used for charitable purposes will reflect fair market value.
- Tax receipts are mailed within 30 days of a vehicle's sale, ensuring accurate documentation for tax purposes.
- Our organization has been rated favorably on Charity Navigator and GuideStar.
How it works, step by step
Pickup (Day 0)
Your vehicle is picked up from your designated location at no cost to you. Our friendly team ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience during the pickup process.
Transport to Auction Lot (Day 0-5)
After pickup, the vehicle is transported to our secured auction lot, where it will be stored until it undergoes inspection and title verification. This typically occurs within 5 days.
Inspection + Title Verification (Day 3-10)
Our team conducts a thorough inspection and verifies the title during this timeframe. This ensures all vehicles are ready for sale and comply with state regulations.
Auction Listing (Day 7-21)
Once verified, your vehicle is listed for auction. Listings are active for a minimum of 14 days, providing ample time for potential buyers to bid.
Sale (Day 14-45)
The vehicle is sold at auction, with the sale process typically taking 30 to 45 days. The gross proceeds are then allocated for charity programs.
Proceeds Distribution (Day 30-60)
Funds from the vehicle sale are distributed to support our programs. This ensures that your contribution makes a meaningful difference in the community.
1098-C Receipt Mailed (Day 30-60)
You will receive IRS Form 1098-C within 30 days of the sale. This form details the sale price and is essential for your tax filing.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS Status Verification
How: Use the IRS Pub 78 lookup tool to verify our 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and confirm that your donation is tax-deductible.
✓ Review Form 990
How: You can access our Form 990 through the IRS website or GuideStar to see our financial statements and ensure proper fund allocation.
✓ Attorney General Registry
How: Check with the Indiana Attorney General’s office for our registration and any filed complaints against us to ensure our legitimacy.
✓ Charity Ratings
How: Search for Indy Car Connect on Charity Navigator, BBB, and GuideStar to review our ratings and transparency scores.
Real impact, real numbers
Since our inception, Indy Car Connect has facilitated over 1,000 vehicle donations, generating more than $500,000 in funds to support local community programs. Our transportation assistance services have provided over 1,500 rides for low-income families, enabling access to job interviews, medical appointments, and educational opportunities. Your car donation contributes to real change in the lives of those who need it most.
Indianapolis oversight
Based in Indianapolis, Indiana, we are subject to state-level charity regulations overseen by the Attorney General’s office. Should you have any concerns about our practices, you can file a complaint with the AG’s office. Additionally, the Indiana Consumer Protection Division offers resources and information for donors to ensure they make informed decisions.