Vehicle Purchase Eligibility

All applicants MUST:

• Be age 18 years and older
• Reside in the service area of Benton, Sherburne, or Stearns county
• Have a valid driver’s license with a current address
• Have auto insurance required by the State of MN before purchasing a vehicle
• Provide payment for vehicle in full at time of purchase

Income Qualifications

Tri-CAP asks that clients limit vehicle purchases from the DRIVE program to 1 per household per 12 month period, so that other households may be assisted.

For more information, contact Tri-CAP at 320-251-1612 or 1-888-765-5597.

Sale FAQs

Q. How much will I get for a tax deduction?
A. Call 320-251-1612 and we will look it up for you. The actual tax benefit you receive depends upon your individual tax situation (tax bracket). We encourage you to consult a tax professional.

Q. Does Tri-CAP accept any car on donation?
A. Tri-CAP accepts almost any car. Over 95% of vehicles proposed for donation are accepted. Unlike some charities, the age of the vehicle is not usually a factor. Our objective is to get people the transportation resources they lack. If your car is suitable for this purpose, we will accept it. This even includes vehicles with mechanical problems and minor body damage. Inoperable vehicles (bad engine or transmission, severe accident damage) will have a lower value, but we still accept them.

Q. What about classic, collectible, luxury, or special interest cars?
A. Yes, these cars are acceptable for donation. Even if your car is not suitable for use by a low-income person, we welcome your donation. These cars are often sold to the general public. Your tax deduction is then equal to the gross proceeds of the sale. While your car may not end up being driven by a low-income person, the funds we realize from such a sale often help us place a number of people in cars. Since our car program is not funded by state or federal grants, we are very appreciative of donations like this. Again, please feel free to call and ask.

Q. How does the donation process work?
A. Donating is easy. Simply bring the car, the keys, the title, and the lien release (if you have one) to our office. The paperwork takes less than 20 minutes.

Q. Can you come and get my car?
A. Yes, in most cases–within reason. If the car does not run, we may be able to have it towed.

Q. What documentation will I receive for my taxes?
A. You will receive a donation receipt, IRS Form 1098-C (Copies B and C), IRS Instructions for Form 1098-C (two copies), and a copy of the signed title showing the vehicle is no longer your responsibility.

Q. When will I be able to drop insurance on my car?
A. You can discontinue insurance the minute we sign the title.

Q. Will Tri-CAP transfer the title immediately into their name?
A. Tri-CAP is a licensed car dealer in the State of Minnesota. We will register the vehicle online with the State Dealer Vehicle Services as “Held for Resale” within 24 hrs. When we place the vehicle with a customer, we will transfer title into their name, as is required by Minnesota State law under the terms of our Dealer License.

Q. I thought the IRS changed the rules for car donations. How can Tri-CAP give me such a good tax deduction?
A. The IRS rules for donating a vehicle did change on January 1, 2005. Many charities are now required to first sell the vehicle and then send a receipt to the donor for the exact amount of the sale. (One example of how this applies is when a charity sells a donated vehicle at auction.) HOWEVER, there is an exemption to this rule when charities like Tri-CAP use the car to directly help people in need. This exemption allows donors to claim the Private Party Value for their vehicle. Plus, they do not have to wait until it is sold to get a receipt. Your generous donation to Tri-CAP will be used to help low-income individuals and families in our area. Owning a reliable vehicle makes a real difference for people as they get to and from work and become self-reliant. Donating to Tri-CAP qualifies you for the best possible tax deduction!