Frequently Asked Questions About Asset Donations

1. Initiate – Fill out a brief form or call ConsiderDonation.org. A donation specialist will gather information about your asset and answer questions. For vehicles and small boats, this evaluation and intake is handled through Vehicles for Charity on behalf of Blue Water Surrender.
2. Evaluation – The charity determines whether it can accept your asset (e.g., that there is equity in a property or that a vehicle is tow‑accessible). For unique items like aircraft or large boats, the team may request photos and maintenance records.
3. Transfer & pickup – You sign the necessary ownership documents. Vehicles and small boats are towed away at no cost to you through Vehicles for Charity, usually within 24–72 hours. For aircraft, the charity often sends qualified pilots or a truck to retrieve the plane. Real estate closings are handled by a title company; donors typically do not need to be present and closing costs are covered by the charity. Stocks and bonds are transferred electronically.
4. Sale or use – Assets are sold at auction or through dealers to maximize proceeds, unless a charity can make productive use of the asset (for example, displaying a classic aircraft or using a vehicle for outreach). Sale proceeds fund the programs described above.
5. Receipt & tax forms – You receive an acknowledgment letter and any required IRS form (such as Form 1098‑C for vehicles) so you can claim your deduction. For vehicles and small boats, Vehicles for Charity provides the required IRS documentation. For securities, donors receive an electronic confirmation of the gift date and value.

You should always donate to registered, reputable charities. Ask for the organization’s taxpayer identification number and verify its status through the IRS’s Tax‑Exempt Organization Search.

Legitimate charities will gladly explain how they use donations and provide financial transparency. As a best practice under IRS guidance and nonprofit stewardship standards, donors should ensure titles are properly transferred and obtain written receipts to avoid future liability.

ConsiderDonation.org/Blue Water Surrender meets these requirements and is registered as a 501(c)(3).

For vehicles and boats, Vehicles for Charity will mail or email a 1098-C form or equivalent receipt after the asset is sold, generally within 30 days. If the gross sale price is $500 or less, you may deduct the fair market value up to $500; if it sells for more than $500, your deduction is limited to the sale price. 

For aircraft, real estate and stock donations, donors will receive a written acknowledgment including the date of transfer and a description of the asset. Real estate along with high-value boats and aircraft require a qualified appraisal. 

Securities donors receive an electronic tax receipt showing the number of shares and the market value on the day of transfer.

There are no towing or pickup fees for vehicle or boat donations. These logistics are handled through Vehicles for Charity at no cost to the donor. Real estate donors generally do not pay commissions or closing costs; the charity pays off any liens and covers broker commissions and title fees. Stocks and bonds are transferred electronically at no cost to you; the charity pays any processing fees. Donors may be responsible for routine property expenses (e.g., insurance or taxes) until a real estate closing is completed.

Vehicle and boat pickups typically occur within 24–72 hours of approval when processed through Vehicles for Charity. Real estate donations can be completed in 45–90 days depending on title work and appraisals. Aircraft and large boat pickup depends on scheduling but is often accomplished quickly because hangar & docking fees are expensive. Stock transfers usually settle within 3–5 business days.

For vehicles, you need the clear, original title at the time of pickup; if the title is missing or not in your name, Vehicles for Charity provides state-specific assistance. 

Boats typically require a title or registration. 

Aircraft donations require FAA documents and, ideally, logbooks—though incomplete logs can be accepted (the value may be lower). 

Real estate donations need a deed and written consent from all owners. 

Stock donors supply the name of the security, number of shares and brokerage information.

Yes. Donors can choose to make their gift anonymously; the charity will still record the asset and date for tax purposes but will not publish your name.

Treat your donation like any other transfer. Sign over the title or deed promptly and keep a copy. Avoid leaving the buyer line blank on vehicle titles. Ask the charity for indemnification when donating an aircraft. Retain proof of the transfer and consult an attorney if you have concerns.