Auto Donation Program FAQ's
Southwest Community Services and Seguin Services

 What kind of vehicles can be donated?
The Southwest Community Services accepts all vehicle donations.  Cars, boats, trailers, etc.

Does the vehicle have to be operational?
No

Do you accept donations from outside the Chicagoland area?
Yes

Can you pick my vehicle up?
Yes.  Seguin Auto Center will make all the necessary arrangements to pick up the vehicle at no expense to the donor.

 Can I help with the towing expenses?
By donating your vehicle to Southwest Community Services, there is no expense to the donor of towing.

 What do I need to do to donate my vehicle?
All you need to do is call Southwest Community Services at (708) 429-1260 x1243 or one of our friendly Auto Center representatives at (708) 652-5037.

 Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes, by donating your vehicle to Southwest Community Services you are eligible to deduct charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.  You can deduct contributions to a charity if you itemize deductions on your Schedule A of Form 1040.  Beginning January 1, 2005, taxpayers can deduct ONLY the proceeds the charity gets from the sale of the vehicle if claimed value exceeds $500.00.  Donors must receive a written acknowledgement from the charity that includes the sale price of the vehicle and the donor's social security number.  Southwest Community Services will provide you with written acknowledgement within 30 days of the sale of the car.  For more information on the IRS guidelines, please visit http://www.irs.gov/formpubs/article/0,,id=118918,00.html

 How is the value of my vehicle determined?
The fair market value is the price a willing buyer would pay and a willing seller would accept for the vehicle.  If a vehicle pricing guide is used to determine fair market value, the sale listed price should reflect a vehicle that is the same make, model, and year, sold in the same condition, and with the same or substantially similar options or accessories, as your vehicle.  Moreover, the fair market value of a vehicle donated after June 3, 2005, cannot exceed the price listed for a private-pay sale.

 Will I receive a receipt?
Yes, at the time of pick-up you will receive a Bill of Sale.

 Who benefits from my donation?
100% of your generous donation will benefit the Southwest Community Services.

 Who is the Auto Center and Seguin Services Inc.?
The Auto Center is a business of SEGUINWORKS, which is a subsidiary of Seguin Services.  Seguin Services is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization serving adults and children with disabilities and other special needs.  Seguin Services is an Illinois Licensed used vehicle dealer (dealer #3417, DRS #0500051403).