If your parent can sign
The simplest path is for your parent to sign the title and donation paperwork themselves. You can handle everything else: the form, the phone calls, and pickup day.
If you hold power of attorney
A durable power of attorney that covers property usually lets you sign on your parent's behalf. Some titling agencies require a copy of the POA with the title, and a few have their own POA form. We will tell you what your state asks for.
Whose deduction is it?
Your parent remains the donor, so the Form 1098-C is issued in their name. Their tax advisor should decide whether the deduction helps on their return.
Talking it through with a parent
For many parents, the boat holds a lot of memories. It often helps to frame donation as passing it on rather than getting rid of it: the boat goes to a new owner, and the proceeds help families and veterans. Some families take a last ride or photos before pickup.
Coordinating from a distance
Adult children often live far from the parent and the boat. You can handle the form and calls from anywhere. We coordinate pickup with a neighbor, marina, or storage yard, and send signature forms to your parent or to you as agent.
Documents to have ready
- The title or registration
- A copy of the power of attorney, if you are signing
- Your parent's contact information for the tax form
- Access details for the boat
Questions
My parent is in assisted living and the boat is at their old house. Can you still pick it up?
Yes. If the boat is accessible and paperwork is ready, no one needs to be there.
Can I sign if I am just the child and not the POA?
Not usually. The owner or someone with legal authority for the owner needs to sign.
What if my parent has passed away?
Then the estate or the heirs sign. See our guide to donating an inherited boat.
Where do you send the tax form?
To the donor, your parent, unless the parent asks us to send it to someone else.
Can we donate the boat and the car together?
Yes. Our sister program Cars with Causes handles vehicles.