where to sign car title when donating

[Alessandra]

When donating a car, you typically sign the title in the section designated for the seller or transferor. The exact location and required information vary by state, but the most critical step is ensuring your signature matches the name printed on the title. Failing to sign correctly is the primary reason for processing delays with charities.

Before you sign, you must accurately complete the odometer reading and the date of sale/transfer. Most states also require you to print your name. The charity you are donating to will act as the buyer. It is essential to check your state's specific requirements, as some have a dedicated "Notice of Transfer" section that must be completed and submitted to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to release you from liability.

Here is a sample of common state requirements for signing a car title upon donation:

State	Signature Location on Title	Odometer Reading Required?	Notarization Required?	Special Notes
California	Seller/Transferor Section	Yes	No	Complete "Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability" online.
Texas	Seller Section	Yes	No	Also requires printed name and date next to signature.
Florida	Seller Signature Line	Yes	No	Must include the sale price; for donations, write "DONATION" or $0.
New York	Assignment of Title by Owner	Yes	No	Both seller and buyer (charity) must complete their sections.
Pennsylvania	Assignment of Certificate of Title	Yes	Yes	Signature must be notarized; a notary is often provided by the charity.
Illinois	Seller's Signature Section	Yes	No	Must complete the "Vehicle Transaction Form" in addition to the title.

After signing, remove the license plates from the vehicle. The charity will handle the rest of the transfer paperwork, but you should always obtain a dated receipt from them and keep a copy of the signed title for your records. Follow up with your local DMV to confirm the transfer is complete, which protects you from any future tickets or fines associated with the car.