The options for vehicle donation are many. They range from top-flight collectibles worthy of Museum display to non-running cars. Be advised, we do not accept donations with stipulations or requirements.

Our collection is growing and changing and we choose not to commit to a set of stipulations that may hinder future displays, restoration efforts, or sale at public auctions. Naturally, vintage or classic cars carry the greatest value, but even an ‘average’ vehicle can generate support for the Museum.

We complete a thorough assessment, determine the best option for your donation and how to best utilize the value of your donation. Some vehicles are kept in their original condition, some are restored, and some are placed at public auction.

As for the paperwork, it’s pretty simple. A clear and signed title is about it. If you wish to claim a deduction for your donation when you file your taxes, the Museum will provide the documentation as specified by IRS regulations.

Such a donation of your vehicle (car, truck, motorcycle, RV, or boat) can go a long way in the support of LeMay – AMERICA'S CAR MUSEUM. Email the Collection Manager or call the Museum at 253.779.8490 x116.

Does my car have to be running to qualify for a donation?

No, the vehicle must be towable, intact and moveable. Car parts in boxes cost more to move and sell than the resulting proceeds. Contact our representative to find out if your vehicle qualifies.

Does my vehicle have to be a vintage or classic car?

No. The Museum will sort out how to best utilize the value of your donation. We complete a thorough assessment and determine the best option for your donation. Some are kept in their original condition, some are restored, and some are placed at public auction.

Will the Museum accept a car with stipulations?

No. We do not accept donations with stipulations or requirements. Our collection is growing and changing and we choose not to commit to a set of stipulations that may hinder future displays, restoration efforts, or sale at public auctions.

How much paperwork is there?

For you as donor, the key piece of paperwork is a clear and signed title. A clear title is in the name of the donor without a lien. If you have misplaced the title you can get a duplicate title through your state Department of Licensing. The Museum provides the paperwork documentation for your donation. The type of documentation we provide you is determined by IRS regulations.

So how does the IRS get involved?

If you wish to take credit for a donation when you file your taxes, the IRS has guidelines for you and the Museum. We notify the IRS of your donation and when you file your taxes you need to document the value of the donation. Specific forms and guidelines will be provided by our representative and they can provide the resources you need to document your deduction and comply with IRS regulations. If we sell your car at an auction, the sale price determines the amount you can claim. If we retain your car and it is valued under $5,000, you can use one of the many guides to determine its current fair market value. If you think your car is worth more that $5,000 you will need to involve a certified appraiser. We can direct you to lists of eligible independent appraisers and what you should look for in an appraisal. The appraisal can be dated no more than sixty (60) days prior to the donation and must be dated prior to your submission as a donation when you file your taxes. Appraisers are certifiied by associations of appraisers and those certified with be cognizant of requirements they must meet for the IRS to recognize their work.

How can I check out the IRS stuff for myself?

The easiest way is to go to their web site at www.irs.gov and look up Publication 4303 titled A Donor’s Guide to Car Donations.

How does my car get to the Museum?

We can arrange to have it picked up at a convenient time for you. You need not be present but we do need to have the signed title in hand to be able to transport the car.

Is the Museum interested in donations of vehicle related materials?

Yes we are. Such items are now referred to as automobilia and can be used to enhance and augment museum displays. Email the Collection Manager or call the Museum at 253.779.8490 x116.