Wheels for Work is a program that provides the needed transportation for individuals with barriers to employment to commute to work, and in many cases access childcare providers and other services that help promote long-term employment and self-sufficiency.

Car dealerships and individuals are solicited to donate used vehicles in good repair. After the donation is secured in Goodwill’s name, the vehicle is given to the qualified candidate and titled in the new owner’s name.

The Wheels for Work program is designed to assist individuals who have shown the determination to achieve self-sufficiency and become independent wage earners. Help Goodwill drive towards a stronger community and support the Wheels for Work program in your local area.

• Frequently Asked Questions About Vehicle Donations
• How can I apply to receive a vehicle?
• Download an Intake Form

Q. How do I donate a vehicle to Goodwill?

A. We ask that the vehicle be driven to a Goodwill location for donation. In some cases, Goodwill staff can pick up the vehicle using its dealer license plate or schedule to have the vehicle towed by a towing service. You will be asked several questions about the age and condition of your vehicle to determine if it can be accepted by Goodwill. The owner or co-owners must be present at the Goodwill office to sign over the title at time of donation.

Q. What happens when I donate my vehicle to Goodwill?

A. As a licensed used car dealer, Goodwill takes ownership of the vehicle immediately upon title transfer. As the donor, you retain your license plate and should cancel insurance coverage. If the vehicle is reported to be in good working condition, it is given a thorough safety inspection. Minor repairs are performed, and the vehicle is given to a Wheels for Work participant who needs personal transportation for maintaining employment in the community.

Q. Is my donation of a vehicle to Goodwill a tax deduction?

A. The value of the donation may be tax deductible. Goodwill cannot provide tax advice regarding the value of a specific donation. Goodwill will provide you with a thank you letter that lists the value received from your vehicle -depending on how the vehicle was used by the program. Please refer to IRS guidelines or your tax advisor for specific guidance.

Q. How long does the process of donating a vehicle to Goodwill usually take?

A. When you drive your car to a Goodwill location the title transfer takes only a few minutes. If your vehicle needs to be picked up by Goodwill, plan on at least 5 to 10 workdays from the title transfer until the removal of the vehicle.

Q. Can I donate a car that is currently not running?

A. Your donation is a benefit to Goodwill only if the proceeds from sale at auction are greater than the cost of the Title Transfer and towing. Goodwill staff will discuss the age and condition of your vehicle before accepting it as a donation.

Q. What is the money used for from my donation of a vehicle to Goodwill if it must go to auction to be sold?

A. The proceeds of the sale of a donated car are also used to support Wheels for Work. The service is designed to assist individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment achieve independence and continued employability by providing them with personal transportation.

Q. What Counties in Pennsylvania are served by the Wheels for Work Program?

Q.  How can I apply to receive a vehicle from the Wheels for Work Program?

A.  Requirements for receiving a donated car vary from one Goodwill location to the next.   Click here for a detailed list of requirements and to download an intake form.

For more information please contact us at

800.432.4483 or e-mail Wheels for Work.