Photo by blende12 under Pixabay License
If you have a boat you no longer need, donating it can make a real difference. When you donate a boat in Florida through Veteran Car Donations, you’re helping fund programs that support U.S. veterans who deserve a better life. Many of our heroes return home only to face unemployment, homelessness, or lack of access to healthcare. Your donation helps them get back on their feet while also giving you great benefits, like a possible tax deduction.
How does the Florida boat donation process work?
Donating a boat is quick and easy. Here’s how it works:
- Get in touch. Call us at 877-594-5822 or fill out our online donation form.
- Schedule your free pickup. We’ll arrange a time and place that works for you.
- Receive your tax receipt. After we auction off your boat, you’ll get a receipt you can use for your federal tax return.
There’s no paperwork or cost for you. We take care of the title transfer, towing, and all documentation.
How do you choose the right charity for your boat donation?
It’s important to choose a trustworthy organization. Veteran Car Donations partners with IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits that specialize in veteran support. We focus on transparency and impact so you can feel confident your gift will be put to good use.
What tax benefits do you get for donating a boat?
When you donate a boat in Florida, you may qualify for a top tax deduction based on the selling price of the boat at auction. You’ll receive a 100% tax-deductible receipt within 30 days of the sale. We handle all the paperwork to make sure you’re IRS-compliant.
If your boat sells for over $500, you’ll need to file IRS Form 8283. For more details, consult the Internal Revenue Service or your tax advisor.
How does your boat donation help veterans and nonprofits?
Proceeds from your boat donation help fund essential non-profit organizations that provide:
- Food, housing, and clothing for homeless veterans
- Medical care and mental health services
- Job training and employment assistance
- Specially adapted housing for injured vets
- Support for families of fallen and active-duty military members
These services to our underprivileged veterans help them transition back into civilian life and regain stability.
What logistics should you know before donating a boat?
Worried about towing or costs? Don’t be. We provide free pickup anywhere in Florida—whether your boat is on land, at the marina, or in storage. There are no hidden fees, and you don’t need to repair or clean your boat before donating. We accept:
- Fishing boats
- Sailboats
- Yachts
- Houseboats
- Jet skis
- Pontoon boats
If you’re donating other types of vehicles (cars, RVs, motorcycles, etc.), we accept those too.
Are there real stories of boat donations making a difference?
Yes! We’ve had donors tell us their unused boats became lifelines for veterans. Charities have been able to expand outreach, provide warm meals, and even build housing—thanks to generous boat donations. Your gift can be the start of someone’s second chance.
How does Florida honor its veterans?
Florida shows deep respect for those who served, with many sites dedicated to honoring veterans:
- Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Wall — Honors over 1,700 fallen heroes on a 65-foot black granite wall.
- Veterans Memorial Park in Leesburg — Features a Huey helicopter and over 9,000 engraved names.
- Circle of Heroes at Veterans Reef — An underwater dive site with 12 statues honoring military branches, located off Pinellas County.
- Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary — A peaceful retreat in Vero Beach to honor and remember.
- Florida National Cemetery (Bushnell) — Over 500 acres of final resting grounds for veterans.
- Cape Canaveral National Cemetery (Mims) — A 318-acre site with memorial walls and shelters.
Wherever you live in Florida—in Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, or Tallahassee—Veteran Car Donations will pick up your boat free of charge and help you make an impact.
Ready to donate your boat in Florida?
Contact us at 877-594-5822 or visit our boat donation page to get started.
You’ll enjoy a hassle-free donation, potential tax benefits, and the chance to support our nation’s heroes. Let your boat help build a better life for Florida’s veterans today.
Veteran Car Donations operates in all 50 states.
Donate Now
Or call (877) 594-5822!
Last Updated: August 13th, 2025