At Hoosier Wheels, we appreciate that trusting a charity with your vehicle can be daunting. Donors often wonder where their car goes, how it’s used, and what benefits they can expect. Our commitment to transparency ensures that every step in the donation process is clear and accountable.
This page details the journey of your donated vehicle from the moment it's picked up to the point you receive your tax receipt. We aim to provide you with a thorough understanding of how your contribution supports our mission, allowing you to feel confident in your decision to donate.
✓Key facts you can verify
- Hoosier Wheels is an IRS-approved 501(c)(3) public charity.
- Donors can verify our charity status through IRS pub78 lookup.
- All vehicles are sold at auction or used directly for charity programs.
- Gross proceeds from auctions allow donors to claim actual sale prices on 1098-C.
- Fair Market Value (FMV) deductions apply for vehicles used in charitable programs.
- Donors receive a 1098-C receipt for tax purposes, mailed within 30 days of sale.
- Our charity is registered with the Indiana Attorney General's office for oversight.
How it works, step by step
Pickup (Day 0)
Once you schedule your donation, our team will arrive at your location to pick up the vehicle on the same day. We handle all paperwork and ensure a hassle-free experience.
Transport to Auction Lot (Day 0-5)
After pickup, your vehicle is transported to our secure auction lot. This process ensures your vehicle is safely stored while preparing for the next steps, typically within 5 days.
Inspection + Title Verification (Day 3-10)
Your vehicle undergoes a thorough inspection and title verification within 10 days of pickup. This step confirms that all documentation is in order and the vehicle is ready for auction.
Auction Listing (Day 7-21)
The vehicle is listed for sale at auction, usually within 21 days of donation. This timeline allows us to garner maximum visibility and potential bids for your vehicle.
Sale (Day 14-45)
Once listed, the auction can take from 14 to 45 days to conclude, during which time we work to achieve the best sale price for your donation.
Proceeds Distribution (Day 30-60)
After the vehicle is sold, proceeds are allocated to our charitable programs, typically within 60 days. This ensures your contribution directly supports the community.
1098-C Receipt Mailed (Day 30-60)
You’ll receive your 1098-C tax receipt via mail within 30 days of the sale, allowing you to claim your deduction on your tax return the following spring.
Verify it yourself
✓ Verify Charity Status
How: You can check our status by visiting the IRS pub78 lookup tool, ensuring that Hoosier Wheels is recognized as a legitimate 501(c)(3) charity.
✓ Check Charity Ratings
How: Search Hoosier Wheels on Charity Navigator, Better Business Bureau, or GuideStar to review our ratings, transparency, and accountability standards.
✓ Review Financials
How: Request our Form 990 from the IRS or through GuideStar, which provides a detailed overview of our finances, including how donations are used.
✓ Contact Attorney General's Office
How: The Indiana Attorney General's office maintains a charity registry. You can contact them to verify our compliance with state regulations.
Real impact, real numbers
Your generosity helps us provide vital transportation assistance to low-income families in Indiana. Last year, Hoosier Wheels provided over 300 vehicles, directly impacting the lives of 900 individuals. With an average sale price of $3,000 per vehicle, your donations help fund essential programs that connect families to jobs, healthcare, and education resources.
Indiana oversight
As an Indiana-based charity, we adhere to state laws and regulations for charitable organizations. Indiana residents can file complaints with the Attorney General's office if they have concerns about a charity. Additionally, local consumer-protection resources are available to help ensure that your donation is handled ethically and responsibly.