How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute donation form or call Heritage
Begin by completing the quick online donation form through Rev Up Giving or by calling Heritage for the Blind directly. You will share basic details such as your name, Texas pickup address, contact information, vehicle year, make, model, condition, and whether you have the title. You do not need to know the vehicle’s exact value to start. Donors often begin from home, work, an apartment lot, a repair shop, or even a family member’s driveway. Once your information is submitted, the vehicle-donation team reviews it and prepares the next step.
A coordinator calls within 1–2 business hours
After your form is received, a donation coordinator typically calls back within 1–2 business hours to confirm your details and schedule pickup. This is your chance to ask questions before committing to a tow time. The coordinator can explain what to do with the title, whether plates should be removed, and how the driver will contact you. Whether you are in central Dallas, The Woodlands, Round Rock, Katy, Arlington, McAllen, or a smaller Texas town, the goal is to choose a pickup window that works for you.
Your vehicle is picked up for free
A licensed tow truck comes to the location you choose, and pickup is free. In many Texas metro areas, including Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, and San Antonio, same-day or next-business-day pickup is often available. The vehicle does not usually need to run, as long as it can be safely accessed by the tow truck. At pickup, you sign the Texas title over as instructed. Have the title and a photo ID ready, remove personal belongings, and make sure the driver can reach the vehicle.
The vehicle goes to auction or a parts reseller
After pickup, your donated vehicle is transported to the appropriate selling location. Depending on its age, condition, mileage, and local market, it may be sent to auction or to a parts reseller. This step is handled for you, so you do not need to negotiate with buyers, list the car online, pay for towing, or manage repair decisions. Vehicles in all types of condition may be considered, from daily drivers to older cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and non-running vehicles.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind
When the vehicle sells, the proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind, a recognized 501(c)(3) charity, EIN 58-2164446. Heritage for the Blind funds services that support people who are blind or visually impaired. In addition, Heritage helps connect individuals with benefit resources such as SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, and other assistance programs. Donors who want to check potential benefit eligibility can visit nhftb.org/finder. Your donated vehicle becomes a practical way to support a mission while clearing space at no cost.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the sale
Once the vehicle is sold and the transaction is processed, your tax documentation is mailed to you. For vehicles that sell for more than $500, you receive IRS Form 1098-C. For vehicles that sell for $500 or less, you receive a written acknowledgment. The full process, from starting your donation to receiving the mailed receipt, typically takes about 2–6 weeks. Keep your receipt with your tax records, and speak with a tax professional if you have questions about claiming a charitable deduction.
Key facts about car donation
There is no towing fee, processing fee, or out-of-pocket cost to donate your vehicle.
A coordinator typically calls within 1–2 business hours after your form is submitted.
Same-day or next-business-day pickup is often available in major Texas metro areas.
You sign the title over at pickup, so have it ready with your photo ID.
IRS Form 1098-C is mailed for vehicles that sell for more than $500.
Most donations take about 2–6 weeks from first contact to mailed tax receipt.