The donation date
Your deduction belongs to the year you contributed the boat, generally the day we receive the boat and signed title. To count for this year, the boat and paperwork need to be in our hands by December 31.
When the sale runs into next year
If the boat sells in January or later, your Form 1098-C will arrive after the sale. You may need to wait for it before filing, or file an extension.
The 2026 deduction floor
Starting with the 2026 tax year, itemizers can deduct charitable gifts only to the extent they exceed 0.5% of AGI. Some donors plan larger gifts in a single year to get past the floor. Ask your advisor whether that applies to you.
A December timeline
- Early November: contact us and send photos
- Mid-November: paperwork signed and pickup scheduled
- December: pickup completed
- January to March: sale and Form 1098-C
Bunching deductions
With the 2026 floor, some donors group several years of giving into one tax year. A boat donation can be part of that plan. Ask your advisor.
Holiday schedules
Transporters, marinas, and state offices keep shorter hours around the holidays. Starting early is the best protection.
Questions
Can you pick up my boat on December 30?
Contact us early. Transporter availability tightens around the holidays.
Does the pickup date or the signature date count?
Generally, the date we receive the boat and title. Ask your advisor about your situation.
Will I get my 1098-C in time for taxes?
If the boat sells early in the year, usually yes. If not, you may need an extension.
What if pickup happens January 2?
The donation generally counts for the new year.
Can I sign the title in December and have it picked up in January?
The contribution date is generally when we receive the boat. Ask your advisor about your situation.