Boat donation questions, answered
Grouped by where you are in the process. Do not see yours? Call (888) 228-7320, 8am–10pm ET daily.
Before you donate
What kinds of boats do you accept?
Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, fishing boats, personal watercraft, houseboats, floating homes, commercial boats, and boat trailers. The common thread is real resale value.
Does my boat need to run?
No. Many donated boats do not run. What matters is whether the boat, as it is, has resale value.
How do I know what my boat is worth?
You do not need to know. Give us your best guess on the form, even "not sure," and we will review it.
Is there anywhere you cannot pick up?
We accept boats in all 50 states. A few remote locations, such as islands without road access, take more planning, and we will be honest about what is practical.
Can I talk to someone before filling out a form?
Yes. Call (888) 228-7320. Nothing is committed on a phone call.
Pickup
Who picks up my boat?
A member of our trusted transport team who coordinates directly with you.
How long until pickup?
It depends on both sides' availability. Sometimes a couple of days, sometimes a couple of weeks.
Do I have to pay anything for pickup?
No. Pickup is free to you. Fees you already owe to a marina or storage yard stay with you.
Does the transporter need a trailer from me?
No. If your boat has no trailer, the transporter brings one.
What if my boat is in the water?
We arrange a ramp pickup or haul-out with your marina.
Can you take a boat that is outside the United States?
Yes, case by case. Most of the boats we take are in the 50 states, where U.S. donors can claim a tax deduction, but we also accept boats in other countries when the boat and the logistics make sense. Tell us where it is and we will say what's possible.
Paperwork
What paperwork do I sign?
Usually the title, or a bill of sale and the registration in states that do not title boats. Documented vessels use a Coast Guard bill of sale.
Do I need a notary?
Only in some states. We will tell you if yours requires one.
What about the trailer and outboard?
Trailers often have separate paperwork. A few states title outboards separately. We walk you through both.
Should I cancel my registration or insurance?
Cancel insurance after pickup. Leave the registration and numbers on the boat; we handle the change.
Taxes
Is my boat donation tax deductible?
Yes, if you itemize. Giving Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 92-1162407.
How much can I deduct?
For most donations over $500, the gross proceeds from the sale, shown on Form 1098-C. See the tax guide for exceptions.
When will I get my tax form?
Generally within 30 days of the sale.
Do the 2026 tax changes affect me?
If you itemize, charitable deductions now count only above 0.5% of your AGI. Ask your advisor how that applies to you.
After the sale
What happens to my boat?
Most boats are sold through brokers or private sales. Some are improved first. Occasionally one goes to a rescue squad or is used for outings with kids and veterans.
Where do the proceeds go?
Net proceeds support Boats with Causes' charitable programs.
Will you tell me when it sells?
Yes. Your Form 1098-C also shows the sale date and price.
Can I buy my boat back later?
No. Once donated, it belongs to the charity.
Start your boat donation
Takes about three minutes. Your best guesses are fine, or call (888) 228-7320.
Free pickup by our trusted transport team · We handle title transfer and tax paperwork · No cost to you