Auto News Foundation

About this organization

Auto News Foundation appears in the IRS Exempt Organizations Master File under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, meaning contributions are deductible for federal income tax purposes when made by an itemizing donor. Public 990 filings are the primary source for current operational information, and we link to them directly below so you can review without leaving the verification trail.

Vehicle donation programs operating in Washington typically follow one of two models. Auction-and-fund charities accept vehicles in any condition, sell them through partner auctions, and use the proceeds to fund the broader mission. Refurbish-and-place charities accept working vehicles, perform inspections and repairs, and place the car directly with a vetted recipient. Confirm which model Auto News Foundation operates before donating — it changes both your IRS Form 1098-C treatment and the recipient outcome.

If you want to donate a vehicle

Begin by contacting Auto News Foundation directly through the contact information listed in their most recent Form 990 or on their official website. A reputable program will confirm in writing that they accept vehicles, describe the pickup logistics, and outline the title transfer process for Washington.

• Confirm the vehicle types accepted — running cars, non-running cars, trucks, RVs, boats, motorcycles all have different processes.
• Ask whether the charity processes vehicles in-house or through a third-party "vehicle donation processor."
• Request a written acknowledgment with the charity's EIN and 501(c)(3) status confirmation.
• Get clear instructions on the title transfer specific to Washington — release of liability requirements vary state to state.
• Ask for the IRS Form 1098-C delivery timeline (legally must be within 30 days of disposition).

Refer to our step-by-step donor walkthrough and the title transfer checklist for the documentation you should have ready before pickup.

If you are applying to receive a vehicle

Not every 501(c)(3) listed in the IRS database operates a public application program; some programs serve members only, some have wait lists closed for the year, some primarily fund services rather than placing vehicles. Contact Auto News Foundation directly to confirm whether they currently accept applications from the public, what the eligibility criteria are, and how long the typical timeline runs.

Most programs serving low-income recipients require proof of income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, verifiable employment or school enrollment, a valid driver's license, the ability to insure the vehicle, and a reasonably clean driving record. Veteran-focused programs additionally require a DD-214. See our document checklist before you submit anything.

Verifying status before you act

Five free verification tools should be checked before any donation or application:

• IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search at apps.irs.gov/app/eos — confirm current Pub. 78 status using EIN 92-0322764.
• ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer — review recent Form 990 filings and revenue patterns.
• Charity Navigator and CharityWatch — independent ratings on financial health and transparency.
• Washington Attorney General charitable solicitation registration database.
• Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance, if Auto News Foundation has elected to undergo BBB review.

Our guide on how to verify a vehicle donation charity walks each tool with screenshots and edge cases.

Other programs in Washington

Most regions have multiple vehicle donation programs operating, and the right one depends on the vehicle's condition and the donor's priorities. Other Washington charities cataloged here include:

• American Veterans Car Club (La Center)
• Auto Bonds Blessings (Federal Way)
• Auto Repair Transformation (Seattle)
• Community Air Mobility Initiative (Bainbridge Is)
• Demonos Car Club (Gig Harbor)
• Dream Car Network Inc (Seattle)

See the full Washington programs page for the complete list.