Why Donate to Idaho Youth Ranch?

We Make it Easy & Rewarding

We are grateful for your donation, and we show it every step of the way.

  • Our Team is ready to assist you!
  • Fast & Free Pick Up
  • We have the knowledge & experience you need

We’ve been a trusted name in vehicle donation in Idaho for many years, with the experience to make the process simple and maximize the benefits for you!

Maximize Your Benefits

It matters who you donate to and how the vehicle is sold. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and we sell your vehicle ourselves! That means more of your car’s full retail value goes directly to helping kids—not to middlemen or third parties.

  • This helps you maximize your tax deduction.
  • Your donation qualifies for a $500 IRS tax deduction—even if it sells for less.
  • You'll receive a receipt with all the IRS-required tax information.

Maximize Your Gift & Impact

When you donate to Idaho Youth Ranch, you're investing in the lives of Idaho kids.

  • Every penny stays local to help Idaho families get the support they need.
  • Your gift funds services like emergency shelter, counseling & therapy, residential care, job training, adoption services & more.

You're not just donating a vehicle—you’re giving a child the tools to thrive.

Your Donation Matters
Maximize Your Benefits
Tax Savings
What our donors are saying

Most Vehicles Can Be Donated

Donations to Idaho Youth Ranch may include but not limited to:

  • Cars/Trucks
  • SUVs/Vans
  • Boats
  • ATVs/Motorcycles
  • Trailers
  • Snowmobiles
  • Commercial Vehicles
  • Campers/RVs/Golf carts

    Live outside the Treasure Valley or even outside of Idaho? 
    We can help! Get started right away by visiting our partner or call 800-500-7433
What information should I have handy when I call?

When you're ready to donate, it's helpful (but not required) to have the following details:

  • Current mileage and VIN

  • Make, model, year, and body style (sedan, SUV, etc.)

  • Registration status

  • Title information, including any lien and whose name is on the title

  • General condition of the vehicle and any known history

Don’t worry if you don’t have all the details—our friendly team is here to help and will walk you through the process when you call!

When my vehicle is sold, how much of the money goes to the kids?

All of it! To maximize the value of your vehicles' sale price, we will often invest in necessary repairs or clean-up that will add to the total value we receive at sale.

Do we accept junk/salvage titles?

Yes, a car with a salvage or rebuilt title that is in good running order may be accepted as a donation. If you have a salvage or rebuilt title, please make sure to call first and to discuss the gift with our automotive team at 208-375-7965.

Does my car have to be registered?

No, your vehicle does not need to have a current registration for our vehicle donation program. However, please note that if you choose to drive without current registration, you are at risk of a citation.

Can you tow my vehicle donation?

If you’re unable to drive your vehicle to us, we may be able to arrange towing—especially if your vehicle just needs a minor repair and still holds value. Once we confirm we can accept your donation, we’ll work with you to make the process as easy as possible.

Donation Checklist: What to Know...
Before You Give

Once you’ve spoken with our automotive team, follow this simple checklist to ensure a smooth donation process:

Clear Out Personal Items
Don’t forget to check under seats, the glove box, CD/DVD players, and remove garage door openers.

Check the Title
Make sure the name on the title matches your I.D.

  • If the title lists more than one name, all parties must be present to sign.

  • Please don’t sign the title ahead of time—we’re required to witness the signing along with the federal tax form.

Bring Required Documents

  • The vehicle title

  • A state-issued I.D. (name must match the title)

  • Current registration (if available)

Remove License Plates
You can take them off beforehand—or we’ll gladly help you remove them.

After You Give

After the Donation

  • Cancel your car insurance

  • File your release of liability form

  • Claim your Idaho State Tax Credit: You may be eligible for a 50% credit (up to $400 for joint filers) for donations to youth rehabilitation programs—no itemizing needed!

Stay in Touch
Make sure we have your correct contact info so we can send your tax documentation after the vehicle is sold. If the vehicle sells for over $500, that sale price will determine your deduction under IRS rules.