Frequently Asked Questions
About the Auxiliary and the Auxiliary Association (AuxA)
What is the Coast Guard Auxiliary?
What is the Mission of the Auxiliary Assocation
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed, civilian, volunteer part of the Coast Guard. It performs many of the same missions as the Coast Guard except military and direct law enforcement. The primary mission of the Auxiliary is recreational boating safety—keeping people safe on the water. We all volunteer our time to assist the Coast Guard in fulfilling its civil functions. We aren’t paid, but we receive great satisfaction knowing we help save lives and protect the environment. The only requirements to join are a desire to serve, be at least 17 years old (with parental permission), be a citizen of the United States, and be able to pass a criminal background check.
What's the credo of the Auxiliary Association
Our first responsibility is to the United States Coast Guard (USCG) Auxiliary, and in turn to the United States Coast Guard. AuxA has the fiduciary duty to ensure the USCG Auxiliary's financial assets, which are acquired via dues, donations and balance sheet items, are safeguarded. In satisfying this need, we practice the highest standards of integrity, transparency and process.
We must constantly strive to improve processes in order to provide convenient interaction between AuxA and all members and reduce costs so our members can enjoy the lowest prices we can provide. Member orders must be serviced promptly and efficiently. In interacting with members and 3rd parties, we must project care, engagement and respect, in keeping with the highest standards of United States Coast Guard Forces.
We must constantly strive to improve processes in order to provide convenient interaction between AuxA and all members and reduce costs so our members can enjoy the lowest prices we can provide. Member orders must be serviced promptly and efficiently. In interacting with members and 3rd parties, we must project care, engagement and respect, in keeping with the highest standards of United States Coast Guard Forces.
Vehicle & Vessel Donation FAQ
How does the AuxA accept and process vehicle and VESSEL donations?
AuxA partners with a leading online vehicle donation non-profit organization (Charitable Adult Rides & Services) that handles all the administration, appraisal, transfer, and selling activities.
The Coast Guard Auxiliary Association, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation formed to support the Coast Guard Auxiliary. We manage the Auxiliary's funds, operate a Auxiliary specific uniform and equipment store, and fundraise on behalf of the Auxiliary. Our organization is lead and operated by a volunteer force and as an organization it receives no federal government appropriation funds.
How do vehicle AND VESSEL donationS work?
1.Call (866) 398-4483 or complete the online donation form on the CARS website to start your donation. CARS vehicle donation support team is available seven days a week and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
2.Schedule your free pick-up. CARS arranges to have a licensed tow company pick up your vehicle at a convenient time and at no cost to you.
3.We receive the funds from the sale, and you could qualify for a tax deduction! Vehicle donations are tax-deductible, and we work to get the highest return per vehicle for us and your tax benefit. In most cases, when the driver arrives to tow your vehicle, you’re provided with the donation receipt. You will be mailed a thank-you letter within 30 days of the sale of the vehicle, which also serves as a donation tax receipt.
2.Schedule your free pick-up. CARS arranges to have a licensed tow company pick up your vehicle at a convenient time and at no cost to you.
3.We receive the funds from the sale, and you could qualify for a tax deduction! Vehicle donations are tax-deductible, and we work to get the highest return per vehicle for us and your tax benefit. In most cases, when the driver arrives to tow your vehicle, you’re provided with the donation receipt. You will be mailed a thank-you letter within 30 days of the sale of the vehicle, which also serves as a donation tax receipt.
What vehicles OR VESSELS may be donated?
Just about any thing with an engine can be donated. The CARS program office will make an evaluation and determine if they are unable to accept individual vehicles, but generally they will take any motorized vehicles (running or not). This includes cars, trucks, motorcycles, airplanes, boats, RVs ATVs, jet skis, or even farm machinery. Additionally, trailers, and campers are frequently approved for acceptance. Essentially, it must be in one piece and towable, and be tow truck accessible. You can call toll-free to (888) 299-8150 seven days a week to verify if your vehicle is acceptable for donation.
Does my vehicle OR VESSEL need to be in working condition?
No, CARS has given us significant profit on boats without engines!
Can cars, trucks, trailers, boats, and air craft be donated for use by the Auxiliary?
This donation program does not allow direct donation of a vehicle. If you have a facility ready boat, trailer, or air craft that you'd like to donate for use by the Auxiliary, please raise the donation request through your flotilla commander.
What do you do with donated vehicles AND VESSELS?
Donated vehicles are sold through used-car markets to provide funding to Auxiliary programs. Our donation coordinators works with a nationwide network and independent vendors to sell the vehicle and maximize donation proceeds. CARS regularly reviews performance and prices from vendors to ensure the best possible return for all involved.
How much will by flotilla or division receive from the donation?
Units can receive 33% of the donation's proceeds if they are designated at the time of donation. An email can be sent to [email protected].
What do I need to donate a vehicle OR VESSEL?
In addition to having a clear Title, prior to acceptance of your donation, the CARS staff will request basic information and photographs to conduct an initial assessment prior to commitment to accept the vehicle.
What if I don't have the Title or have Title issues?
In most states, you will need the clear Title, but if you don't have it or have problems or liens on the Title, please contact CARS representatives at (888) 299-8150. It's possible that other arrangement may be made, and the CARS representatives can often answer questions about the processes. However, please refer to the motor vehicle division in your state for clear instructions.
How do I check the status of my DONATION or get other answers?
The professionals at CARS are available seven days a week - please call (888) 299-8150 or email [email protected] for help. AuxA staff have limited access to donation data, CARS can help you much more quickly.
Are there any costs?
No, there is no cost to the donor. All expenses are deducted from the gross sales price and if the costs ever exceed the price, those costs are covered by CARS, our donation coordinators.
Does my VEHICLE OR VESSEL NEED to be registered?
This varies from state to state. CARS representatives have up-to-date details for each state and can guide you if you call or email.
Do I need a smog certificate or safety inspection?
No. For states with this requirement, you may donate your vehicle without a smog certificate or safety inspection.
Do I need to notify my local Motor Vehicle Division when I donate my vehicle?
State Notification proves that you are no longer the registered owner of the donated vehicle. Depending on the registered state of the vehicle, your next step (after your vehicle has been picked up) is to notify the state about your recent vehicle donation. Please only notify your state after the vehicle is picked up.
This step may be required by the State and may include surrendering the license plates.
The steps needed to release your liability of a donated vehicle vary by state. CARS Vehicle Donor Service Representatives can provide you with the steps necessary for each state. If you have questions about how to notify your state about your donated vehicle, please give CARS a call at (888) 299-8150 seven days a week during regular hours of operation, or email [email protected].
State Notification proves that you are no longer the registered owner of the donated vehicle. Depending on the registered state of the vehicle, your next step (after your vehicle has been picked up) is to notify the state about your recent vehicle donation. Please only notify your state after the vehicle is picked up.
This step may be required by the State and may include surrendering the license plates.
The steps needed to release your liability of a donated vehicle vary by state. CARS Vehicle Donor Service Representatives can provide you with the steps necessary for each state. If you have questions about how to notify your state about your donated vehicle, please give CARS a call at (888) 299-8150 seven days a week during regular hours of operation, or email [email protected].