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Thank you for considering VetBuds for your vehicle donation. We match donated vehicles with a qualifying veteran and award at no cost to the veteran.
- To comply with IRS regulations we will require some information and provide you with a vehicle Donor Information Form to complete. The form may be found on our website www.vetbuds.us or directly from a VetBud member.
- We will set a date to take possession of your vehicle and, at that time have you sign the title over to VetBuds Inc. LLC. You may also want to complete form MV-18J (Voluntary registration cancellation) from the Georgia Department of Revenue website.
- We will provide you with the required tax form 1098-c unless you have signed the pertinent line on the donor information form.
- If you would like, we will let you know when your vehicle is awarded.
Thank for your generosity to assist VetBuds continuing our mission of Veterans Helping Veterans.
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VetBuds Freedom on Wheels Initiative
Reliable transportation can be the difference between moving forward and falling behind.
The VetBuds Freedom on Wheels Initiative provides dependable transportation to honorably discharged military veterans who have demonstrated a genuine need for a vehicle. Through generous donations from individuals, businesses, and community partners, VetBuds accepts donated automobiles, performs necessary safety inspections and minor repairs, and awards the vehicle at no cost to a carefully selected veteran.
Every applicant participates in a thorough screening process. Veterans must demonstrate a legitimate transportation need, possess a valid driver’s license, and show they have the financial ability to insure, register, maintain, and operate the vehicle. This ensures each donated vehicle becomes a long-term solution rather than a temporary fix.
The need for dependable transportation consistently exceeds the number of vehicles available. Every donated vehicle has the potential to change a veteran’s life by restoring mobility, opportunity, and hope.
If you have a vehicle, you no longer need, consider turning it into a life-changing gift for a deserving veteran. Your donation can help someone get to work, attend medical appointments, care for their family, and regain the independence they have earned through their service.
Turning Vehicle Donations into Veteran Independence.
Freedom on Wheels Vehicle Donation Program
Give the Gift of Transportation to a Veteran in Need
Through the VetBuds Freedom on Wheels Initiative, donated vehicles are repaired, restored to safe operating condition, and awarded to veterans who need reliable transportation. Your vehicle donation can make a meaningful difference in helping a veteran regain independence and access employment, healthcare, and other essential services.
Vehicle Donation Eligibility
We accept a variety of vehicles that are in running condition and require only minor repairs.
Vehicles We Accept
- Cars
- Pickup trucks
- SUVs
Vehicle Requirements
To qualify for donation, vehicles should:
- Be running and operable
- Require only minor mechanical repairs
- Have a clear title available for transfer
- Be repairable at a reasonable cost
- Have no restrictions based on age or mileage, provided the vehicle can be made safe and reliable
Vehicles We Do Not Currently Accept
- RVs
- Commercial vehicles
- Motorcycles (although exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis)
- Non-running vehicles
Minor cosmetic damage is acceptable and does not typically affect eligibility.
How the Donation Process Works
Donating a vehicle is simple and designed to be hassle-free.
Step 1: Contact VetBuds
You can:
- Contact a VetBuds member directly
- Email info@vetbuds.us
- Submit a donation request through the Freedom on Wheels section of the VetBuds website
Step 2: Schedule Vehicle Pickup
Once your vehicle is approved, VetBuds works quickly to arrange pickup. Through our partnership with Patriot Towing, vehicles are picked up at no cost to the donor.
Step 3: Transfer the Title
You will need to provide:
- A free and clear vehicle title
- The vehicle itself at pickup
Before pickup, please remove your license plate.
Step 4: Cancel Insurance
After the title has been officially transferred, you should contact your insurance company to cancel coverage on the donated vehicle.
What Happens After Donation?
Every donated vehicle undergoes an evaluation by automotive repair professionals.
Inspection and Repairs
Our team assesses each vehicle and determines whether it can be safely restored for veteran use. Typical repairs may include:
- Tune-ups
- Brake service or replacement
- Exhaust system repairs
- Other minor mechanical work
VetBuds generally aims to keep repair costs around $1,500 per vehicle.
If a Vehicle Cannot Be Repaired
When repair costs are too high, the vehicle may be sent to salvage. Any proceeds received are deposited into the VetBuds general fund and used to support our mission.
How Veterans Are Selected
VetBuds works closely with nonprofit partners and community organizations to identify veterans who can benefit most from transportation assistance.
Application and Referral Process
Most veterans are referred to VetBuds through nonprofit alliance partners.
Verification and Assessment
Applicants are asked to:
- Provide a DD-214 to verify military service
- Participate in an interview with experienced VetBuds members
The interview helps assess financial need, transportation challenges, and readiness for vehicle ownership.
Financial Responsibility Review
While VetBuds does not conduct credit checks, applicants discuss:
- Income
- Living expenses
- Ability to maintain insurance and basic vehicle upkeep
Waiting list times vary based on vehicle availability and current demand.
Receiving a Vehicle
Is the Vehicle Free?
Yes. Approved veterans receive the vehicle at no cost.
The only ongoing responsibility is maintaining legally required vehicle insurance and routine maintenance.
Ownership and Title
Veterans receive:
- Ownership of the vehicle
- The vehicle title
There are no usage restrictions after the vehicle is awarded.
Can the Vehicle Be Sold?
Yes. Once ownership has been transferred, the recipient may choose what to do with the vehicle.
Insurance
VetBuds does not provide insurance coverage. Recipients are responsible for obtaining and maintaining their own insurance.
Tax Benefits for Donors
As a qualified nonprofit organization, VetBuds can provide documentation for eligible tax-deductible donations.
Tax Deduction Information
Donors should consult their tax professional regarding their specific tax situation.
Transparency and Accountability
About VetBuds
VetBuds is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans and their families.
Tracking Donated Vehicles
Once a vehicle has been awarded and ownership transferred, VetBuds no longer tracks the vehicle.
Meeting the Recipient
Donors may have the opportunity to:
- Learn who received their vehicle (with the recipient's permission)
- Attend the vehicle presentation ceremony when mutually convenient
Stewardship of Donations
If a donated vehicle cannot be repaired and is salvaged, any resulting funds are directed to the VetBuds general fund to continue supporting veteran-focused programs and services.
Ready to Donate?
Your vehicle can help provide freedom, independence, and opportunity to a veteran in need.
Contact VetBuds today:
- Email: info@vetbuds.us
- Website: VetBuds Freedom on Wheels Initiative
Together, we can help veterans get back on the road and move forward with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you know a VetBuds member, contact them directly, through our website at www.vetbuds.us or email info@vetbuds.us.
We try to respond quickly to arrange an interview and pick up by tow truck.
- How do I donate my vehicle?
- If you know a VetBuds member, contact them directly, through our website at www.vetbuds.us or email info@vetbuds.us.
- How long does the donation process take?
- We try to respond quickly to arrange an interview and pick up by tow truck.
- Who handles the title transfer?
- VetBuds will take title of the vehicle then transfer ownership to a veteran in need.
- What paperwork will I need?
- The free and clear title.
- Can someone pick up my vehicle?
- Yes, Patriot Towing will pick up your vehicle at no cost to you
- Do I need to remove my license plate?
- Yes.
VetBuds will take title of the vehicle then transfer ownership to a veteran in need.
The free and clear title.
Yes, Patriot Towing will pick up your vehicle at no cost to you
Yes.
“We served. You help. Together, we make sure Veterans aren't forgotten.”