Photo by Joel Rivera-Camacho under Unsplash License
Since 2015, Veteran Car Donations has been supporting communities nationwide by transforming unwanted vehicles into funding for programs centered around veterans. As you continue to read, you will find out how our donation process works, which types of vehicles you can donate, and the benefits you’ll receive as a donor. You will also discover how your contribution can support housing, health services, job training, and other resources for San Marcos veterans. If you want to learn more about how our vehicle donation program works, call 877-594-5822.
Below is a simple overview of the entire donation process, so you know exactly what to expect. Once you contact Veteran Car Donations, we handle everything from start to finish. Read on for more information.
- Get in touch.
You can call 877-594-5822 or fill out our online donation form at the top of the page. We’ll request some contact information and a few details about your car. This step only takes about 5 minutes.
- Arrange a pick-up date.
After verifying your information, we’ll call to schedule a convenient vehicle pick-up date and time. We usually do pick-ups 24 to 48 hours after your initial call. But if needed, we can make special arrangements for you.
- Wait for the pick-up.
We will contact a licensed towing company on your behalf. They will pick up your vehicle on the scheduled day for free. You don’t even have to be present for the appointment. After your car has been hauled away, you will receive a donation receipt. It allows you to cancel your insurance, remove your plates, and de-register the vehicle.
- Wait for your vehicle to be sold.
We will auction your donated vehicle; buyers across the country will place bids. With our broad reach and strong network, your vehicle has a high chance of selling quickly at a fair price.
- Receive your tax-deductible sales receipt.
After the sale, we’ll mail out a 100-percent tax-deductible sale receipt. You’ll need this document when claiming your tax deduction on your itemized federal tax return.  The IRS has rules about how much you can claim as a tax deduction for your donated car. If your car sells for $500 or less, you can use either the selling price or the car’s fair market value, whichever is higher. If your car sells for more than $500, you must use the exact amount it sold for when you claim your tax deduction.
Which Vehicle Types Can I Donate?
If you have a vehicle you want to donate, chances are we will accept it! Check out this list to see which vehicle types we usually receive from donors:
- Cars: Sedans, vans, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles
- RV and campers:Â Recreational vehicles, motorhomes, campers, travel trailers, pop-up trailers, 5-wheelers
- Fleet vehicles: Cars, passenger vans, cargo vans, SUVs, pickups, trucks, buses
- Specialty vehicles:Â ATVs, snowmobiles, tractors, motorized wheelchairs, riding lawn mowers, farm equipment
- Watercraft: Boats, sailboats, motorboats, yachts, fishing boats, pontoon boats, houseboats, jet skis, and other personal watercraft
- Aircraft: Non-commercial airplanes, jet planes, and other similar aircraft
No matter where you live in San Marcos (Elfin Forest, San Elijo Hills, Twin Oaks Valley, Vineyard Road, or anywhere in between), we’re ready to pick up your vehicle.
What Benefits Do I Receive as a Donor?
- You can help others in need, and all it takes is an old clunker that you’ve long been wanting to dispose of.
- You can quickly get rid of the vehicle you no longer need for FREE.
- You can finally free some space in your garage or driveway and use it for something you actually use.
- You can stop paying for unnecessary maintenance and car insurance.
- You can rid yourself of the hassle of doing all the paperwork.
- You don’t have to sell the car yourself and wait around for potential buyers. You don’t have to stress yourself by putting up “For Sale” signs and ads as well.
Are San Marcos Veterans Really Struggling?
Every year, thousands of servicemen and women leave the military, hoping for a smooth return to civilian life. Unfortunately, many still face tough problems when they come home, like:
- Unemployment
- PTSD
- Brain injuries
- Sleep disorders
- Homelessness
- Limited access to education
This is why support for veteran-focused charities is vital. So many veterans need help, and a simple car donation can make a real difference in their lives.
What Do I Need to Know About Veteran Car Donations?
Photo by adonyig under Pixabay License
Veteran Car Donations runs vehicle donation programs to help thousands of vets across the country through our partner non-profits. With your car donation, we can continue supporting veteran-focused programs such as:
- Job training and mentoring;
- Educational scholarships and tutoring programs;
- Nationwide mortgage-free specially adapted homes for post-9/11 veterans;
- Transitioning assistance after deployment;
- Basic needs assistance post-retirement;
- Grief counseling for veterans and their families;
- Highly accessible health and mental facilities.
Beyond Donating, How Else Can I Help Veterans in My Community?
If you want to support veterans in other ways, reach out to local organizations in the San Marcos area and ask how you can get involved. Here are a couple to start with:
- The San Marcos Veterans Center connects veterans and families with the services they need. They may also know about community initiatives and programs that could use volunteers. Located at 1 Civic Center Dr Suite 150, San Marcos, CA 92069.
- The San Diego County Office of Military & Veterans Affairs often works with veterans on benefits, outreach, and local events. They often need volunteers. Located at 649 W. Mission Ave, Escondido, CA, 92025.
You can also visit the All Veterans Memorial in Helen Bougher Memorial Park. It’s a community landmark that honors service members and occasionally hosts community gatherings.
How Can I Serve Our Nation’s Heroes Today?
All it takes is an unwanted car and 5 minutes of your time to help our nation’s heroes. Call us at 877-594-5822 to make your San Marcos, California car donation today!
Last Updated: November 21st, 2025