At Sunflower Autos, we understand how important it is to commemorate a loved one who has passed away, especially someone who cherished their car. Donating their vehicle is a meaningful way to honor their memory while helping those in need. Our program allows you to donate in memory of a specific person, ensuring that their legacy lives on through your generous act.
When you donate a car in memory of a loved one, we can send a tribute card to their family, notifying them of your heartfelt gesture. Just keep in mind that the vehicle title must be in your name to avoid estate complications. If the title is still in your loved one’s name, you may need to consult with an estate professional to facilitate the donation properly.
How to make it happen
Confirm Title Ownership
Ensure the vehicle's title is in your name. If it’s still in your loved one’s name, consult the estate to transfer ownership before proceeding with the donation.
Complete Donation Form
Fill out the donation form available on our website, indicating that the donation is made in memory of your loved one. Provide their name for our records.
Schedule Vehicle Pickup
Contact us to schedule a convenient time for the vehicle pickup. Make sure to have the necessary paperwork ready, including the title and any additional documentation.
Receive Tribute Card
Once the donation is complete, we will send a tribute card to the family of your loved one, notifying them of your generous gift in their memory.
Get Your Tax Receipt
You will receive an IRS tax receipt for your donation, which will be sent to the current owner's address, confirming your charitable contribution.
Common gotchas
Title Still in Deceased's Name
Tip: If the title is in your loved one's name, you must work through the estate to transfer ownership before the donation can proceed.
IRS Tax Receipt Timing
Tip: The IRS tax receipt will be issued to you as the current owner. Make sure your contact details are correct to avoid delays.
Tribute Card Not Sent Automatically
Tip: Remember to indicate the name of the deceased on your donation form so we can properly send the tribute card to their family.
If this path doesn't fit
If donating their vehicle isn’t feasible, consider other ways to honor your loved one, such as hosting a memorial event or setting up a scholarship in their name. You could also look into donating items they cherished to local charities or supporting causes they believed in.
Kansas DMV specifics
In Kansas, when donating a vehicle, ensure any liens are released and follow the state’s title transfer process. You may also need to surrender the license plates at the DMV. Check with your local DMV office for specific requirements and paperwork to avoid any complications during the donation.