We recognize that donating a vehicle can raise questions about what truly happens to your car after it leaves your possession. At Cruise for Cause, we uphold a foundation of transparency, guiding you through every step from pickup to the tax receipt in your hand.
This page provides a detailed overview of our operational process, ensuring you understand how your donation is managed. Your trust is paramount, and we believe that clarity about our practices is the best way to build that trust with our valued donors.
✓Key facts you can verify
- Cruise for Cause is an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) public charity.
- All vehicles are sold at auction or used for our charitable programs.
- Donors can claim actual sale price on Form 1098-C for auctioned vehicles.
- Fair Market Value (FMV) deduction is applicable for vehicles utilized by the charity.
- Receipts are mailed within 30 days of sale, ensuring timely documentation.
- All donations are recorded and reported in our publicly accessible Form 990.
How it works, step by step
Pickup (Day 0)
Upon your scheduled donation date, our team arrives to collect your vehicle at no cost to you. We handle all necessary paperwork to ensure a simple process.
Transport to Auction Lot (Day 0-5)
After pickup, your vehicle is transported to our secured auction lot, where it will be prepared for inspection and eventual auction listing.
Inspection + Title Verification (Day 3-10)
Within a few days, your vehicle undergoes a thorough inspection and title verification to ensure everything is in order for the auction process.
Auction Listing (Day 7-21)
Once inspected, your vehicle is listed for auction. This process can take one to three weeks, depending on the lot's schedule and demand.
Sale (Day 14-45)
The sale typically occurs within two weeks to a month after listing. Once sold, the proceeds are allocated for our programs and operational costs.
Proceeds Distribution (Day 30-60)
Funds generated from the sale are distributed within 30 to 60 days, funding our mission to provide transportation assistance to those in need.
1098-C Receipt Mailed (Day 30-60)
A copy of your 1098-C receipt is mailed to you within 30 days of the sale, outlining the details necessary for your tax deduction, allowing you to file confidently.
Verify it yourself
✓ Check IRS Publication 78
How: You can visit the IRS website to confirm our status as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, providing assurance that your donation is tax-deductible.
✓ Review Charity Navigator
How: Charity Navigator offers ratings and reviews of nonprofit organizations. You can easily find us there to check our ratings and transparency details.
✓ Search State Attorney General’s Registry
How: Florida’s Attorney General maintains a registry of charitable organizations. You can verify our registration status and any complaints or reviews.
✓ Retrieve Our Form 990
How: Our Form 990 is available through sites like GuideStar, providing insight into our finances and operations, showcasing transparency in our fundraising and spending practices.
✓ Consult the Better Business Bureau
How: The BBB provides information about nonprofit organizations, including any complaints and our response to them, helping you evaluate our trustworthiness.
Real impact, real numbers
Since our inception, Cruise for Cause has provided transportation assistance to over 2,000 families in Fort Lauderdale. In the past year alone, we raised over $500,000 through vehicle donations, directly supporting local programs that ensure those in need have access to reliable transportation for work, medical appointments, and education. Your contributions have made a significant difference!
Fort Lauderdale oversight
Cruise for Cause operates within Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where we adhere to state charity regulations overseen by the Florida Attorney General. In case of any complaints, donors can contact the Attorney General’s office for assistance. Additionally, local consumer protection resources are available to ensure that all charity practices are fair and transparent.