At Gear Up Giving, we understand that donating your car can raise questions about its ultimate fate. Donor skepticism is completely natural, and we believe in providing clear, transparent information about our process. This page outlines the journey your vehicle takes, from the moment it's picked up to when you receive your tax receipt.
You’ll find a chronological timeline that details each step, emphasizing our commitment to transparency and accountability. By following this timeline, you can see how your donation contributes to our mission and supports those in need in the Chicago area.
✓Key facts you can verify
- Gear Up Giving is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity.
- Donors can verify our status through IRS pub78 lookup.
- Cars sold at auction allow donors to claim actual sale price.
- Vehicles used for programs provide FMV deductions with proper documentation.
- We adhere to state regulations overseen by the Illinois Attorney General.
- Our financials are available via Form 990 filings.
- Donors receive a 1098-C for their tax returns, with clear details of their donation.
How it works, step by step
Pickup (Day 0)
Your car is scheduled for pickup at a convenient time. Our team will arrive to collect your vehicle and handle all necessary paperwork to ensure a smooth transition.
Transport to Auction Lot (Day 0-5)
After pickup, your vehicle is transported to our secure auction lot. This ensures its safety and prepares it for the next steps in the donation process.
Inspection + Title Verification (Day 3-10)
Within a week of pickup, our team conducts a thorough inspection and verifies the title. This is essential to ensure all paperwork is in order before auctioning the vehicle.
Auction Listing (Day 7-21)
Your vehicle is listed for auction. This period allows us to market your car effectively, showcasing it to potential bidders to maximize sale price.
Sale (Day 14-45)
The auction process typically takes two to six weeks, depending on demand. Once sold, we finalize the transaction and prepare to distribute proceeds.
Proceeds Distribution (Day 30-60)
After the sale, proceeds are distributed according to IRS guidelines. If your vehicle sold, you will receive details necessary for tax deductions.
1098-C Receipt Mailed (Day 30-60)
You will receive your 1098-C receipt within 30 days of the sale, detailing the sale price or fair market value, depending on how the vehicle was utilized.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS Status Verification
How: You can verify our 501(c)(3) status by visiting the IRS pub78 website. This ensures that your donations are tax-deductible.
✓ Charity Navigator
How: Visit Charity Navigator to evaluate our financial health and transparency. They provide independent ratings and reviews of charities.
✓ Attorney General Registry
How: Check the Illinois Attorney General's website to confirm our registration and view any complaints or reviews regarding our charity.
✓ Form 990 Retrieval
How: Access our latest Form 990 filings through GuideStar to see our financial statements, revenue sources, and how donations are utilized.
✓ Better Business Bureau
How: Look us up on the Better Business Bureau website to check our rating and read feedback from other donors about their experiences.
Real impact, real numbers
Since our inception, Gear Up Giving has provided over 1,000 individuals with reliable transportation assistance, helping them secure employment or access essential services. In the last year alone, the proceeds from donated vehicles have contributed over $100,000 directly to our programs, ensuring that those we serve have the resources they need to thrive. Each car donation makes a significant impact in the lives of those in our community.
Chicago oversight
As a Chicago-based charity, we comply with Illinois state regulations, including registration with the state as a charitable organization. Donors can file complaints against charities through the Illinois Attorney General's office, ensuring accountability and protection for our community. Local resources like the Consumer Protection Division also offer assistance and guidance for donors who have questions or concerns.