Donate a Car with Free Towing Included: What Donors Should Know

Why legitimate car donation programs always include free towing — and how to spot programs that quietly charge for it.

Free Towing Should Mean Free

A genuine car donation program covers 100% of towing costs. Cars for Veterans tows free nationwide — running or not. If any program quotes a pickup fee, a fuel surcharge, or a 'distance fee,' treat it as a red flag and ask who actually receives your donation.

Running vs. Non-Running Vehicles

Towing is free either way. Non-running cars, flat tires, dead batteries, blown engines, and vehicles that have sat for years are all towed at no cost. Just tell dispatch the condition so the right truck shows up.

Where We Tow From

Driveways, apartment complexes, office parking lots, repair shops, impound-adjacent storage yards, and rural properties are all covered. If the car can be reached by a tow truck, pickup can usually be arranged.

Disclosure: Cars for Veterans is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. After operating costs (towing, processing, title transfer, and administration), a portion of the net proceeds from each donated vehicle benefits veteran programs. This article is general information, not tax advice.