Why Donate to Idaho Youth Ranch?

We Make It Easy & Rewarding

Our team is ready to assist you! We are grateful for your donation, and we show it every step of the way. 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!

Let's Talk Maximizing Your Impact & Your Benefit...

When you donate your vehicle to Idaho Youth Ranch, you're doing more than giving—it’s an investment in the lives of vulnerable kids right here in Idaho.

Unlike many charities that send vehicles to auction (where they sell for less and incur commission fees), we sell most donated vehicles directly on our used car lot on Orchard Street in Boise. That means more of your car’s full retail value goes directly to helping kids—not to middlemen or third parties.

For donors, it really matters who you donate to and how the vehicle is sold. According to IRS rules, if your vehicle is valued over $500, your tax deduction depends on the final sale price. Because we sell at retail, not auction, we help you maximize your tax deduction while also maximizing your impact.

Idaho Youth Ranch is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so your donation qualifies for a minimum $500 IRS tax deduction—even if it sells for less. After your donation, you'll receive a receipt with all the IRS-required tax information. While we can’t give personal tax advice, a tax professional can help you determine your exact deduction.

At Idaho Youth Ranch, your gift goes further—for you and for the kids who need it most.

 

Your Vehicle Can Drive Real Change - Right Here in Idaho

Every penny stays local to help Idaho kids and families get the support they need. For over 70 years, we’ve been serving youth across the state—and the funds raised through our thrift stores and auto lot play a major role in making that possible. We unite for Idaho's youth!

When you give to Idaho Youth Ranch, you're not just donating a vehicle—you’re giving a child the tools to heal, grow, and thrive. That car may have carried your family; now, it can help carry someone else toward hope and healing.

Thank you for considering this life-changing gift.

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Donating in Boise & Treasure Valley

Please call our vehicle sales and donation team at 208-375-7965.  You can also stop by our auto lot located at 250 N. Orchard, Boise, ID 83706.

Donating in North Idaho & East Idaho

If you live east of Mountain Home or north of McCall, we have partnered with an organization to assist us in receiving your vehicle donation. To arrange for the donation of your vehicle to benefit the programs of Idaho Youth Ranch, call 855-500-7433 or  click here to get started with your vehicle donation.

Donating When Your Vehicle is Located Out of State

We would be happy to assist you with the donation of your vehicle from anywhere in the United States. If your car is located outside of Idaho and you would like it to benefit the programs of Idaho Youth Ranch, call 855-500-7433 or click here to get started with your vehicle donation.

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

Next Steps to Donate Your Vehicle

  • If it isn't currently registered, you do not need to register it.
     
  • We will need your identification and proof of ownership, such as a vehicle title, to process your donation.

  • If you have questions about any documents that you need, call us at 208-375-7965

  • It is best to call and discuss your situation prior to bringing your vehicle to us at our lot in Boise. 
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Frequently Asked Questions

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!

What if my vehicle doesn't run?

Vehicles that are not running may still be accepted! We even have some availability to pick up a vehicle. Please call our automotive team at 208-375-7965 to discuss donations of non-running vehicles and we'll see what we can do.

When my vehicle is sold, how much of the money goes to Idaho Youth Ranch?

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.

My car is in another state, can I still donate it?

Most often the answer is yes. It depends on the condition and location of the vehicle. It is best to call our automotive team to discuss any vehicle donations located out of state.

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.

My vehicle has high mileage, do you still want the donation?

Yes, in most cases. Please call our automotive team for information.

Do I need to get my vehicle serviced prior to donating it?

No, it isn't necessary to service your vehicle prior to your donation.

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.