Your generosity matters, and we know that you may have questions about where your car donation ends up. At RideRebirth, we believe in clear, open communication about the impact of your contributions. We strive to ensure that every step of the donation process is transparent, so you can see how your generosity translates into meaningful support for those in need.
This page will walk you through the donation process and provide concrete examples of how proceeds from your vehicle are used to fund vital programs. Our commitment to transparency reflects our dedication to responsible stewardship of your contributions, ultimately allowing us to create real impact in the Seattle community.
✓Key facts you can verify
- RideRebirth is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
- 70-80% of gross auction sale proceeds reach our partner nonprofits.
- Post-tow, vehicle processing and storage fees affect net donations.
- Program expense ratio typically hovers around 75% for partners.
- Our impact is measured through program outputs, not just funds donated.
- You can verify our nonprofit status via IRS pub78 lookup.
How it works, step by step
Vehicle Donation
When you donate a vehicle, we arrange for towing and begin the processing. This ensures your vehicle is ready for auction.
Auction Sale
The vehicle is auctioned off, generating gross proceeds. This sale typically happens within a few weeks following the donation.
Deductions
From the gross auction sale, we deduct towing, storage, and processing fees. These are essential to covering operational costs.
Net Proceeds
The remaining amount, or net proceeds, is then allocated to our partner nonprofits. This ensures that your donation has a direct impact.
Program Spending
The partner nonprofit utilizes these funds according to their program expense ratio, funding essential services like meals and shelter.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS Nonprofit Status
How: You can verify our 501(c)(3) status through the IRS public 78 listing, ensuring that we are a legitimate charity.
✓ Charity Ratings
How: Visit Charity Navigator or GuideStar to see our ratings and financial health, providing assurance of our accountability.
✓ Attorney General Charity Registry
How: Check with the Washington State Attorney General's office for our registration and compliance status with state charity laws.
✓ Form 990 Retrieval
How: View our Form 990 filings online for full financial disclosures, detailing how we allocate funds raised through donations.
Real impact, real numbers
For instance, if your donated vehicle sells for $1,500, after deducting towing, storage, and processing fees, approximately $1,050-$1,200 will reach our partner nonprofit. Assuming a 75% program expense ratio, this translates to about $790-$900 directly funding programs that provide critical services. This could mean supplying over 300 meals at a local food bank partner or securing 10-15 shelter nights for individuals facing housing insecurity. Your donation has the power to create substantial community outcomes.
Seattle oversight
In Washington State, RideRebirth is subject to oversight by the Attorney General, ensuring compliance with local charity laws. If you have concerns about your donation, you can file a complaint with the AG’s office. Additionally, local consumer protection resources are available to assist donors in verifying the legitimacy of charities operating within Seattle and surrounding areas.