How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute form or call Heritage for the Blind
Begin by completing Ride Again’s quick online donation form or by calling Heritage for the Blind directly. You will share basic details such as your name, San Antonio Metro pickup location, vehicle year, make, model, approximate condition, and whether you have the title. You do not need to know the vehicle’s value or repair history. Whether your car is parked in a driveway in Terrell Hills, at an apartment near UTSA, or outside a home in New Braunfels, this first step simply gives the coordinator what they need to arrange pickup.
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 the details and schedule your free tow. They will ask where the vehicle is located, whether it rolls or starts, and what timing works best for you. In most San Antonio Metro areas, including Live Oak, Universal City, Balcones Heights, and Castle Hills, pickup can often be scheduled for the same day or next business day. The coordinator also explains what to have ready so pickup is smooth.
A licensed tow truck picks up the vehicle for free
On pickup day, a licensed tow truck driver comes to the location you choose, such as your home, workplace, repair shop, storage lot, or family member’s address. Towing is free to the donor. The driver will inspect the vehicle, confirm identifying information, and collect the signed title. In Texas, the title is the key document that transfers ownership, so the coordinator will guide you on where to sign before or at pickup. You do not need to be a mechanic, clean the vehicle perfectly, or get it running first.
Your vehicle goes to auction or a parts reseller
Once the tow is complete, your donated car, truck, van, SUV, motorcycle, RV, or other accepted vehicle is transported to an auction facility or parts reseller. The goal is to convert the vehicle into charitable proceeds in the most practical way based on its condition, age, mileage, and local market options. Some vehicles are sold to buyers who may repair or reuse them, while others are better suited for parts or salvage. Either way, the sale process is handled after pickup, so you do not need to negotiate or list the vehicle.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind
After the vehicle sells, proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, EIN 58-2164446. Heritage for the Blind helps fund services for people who are blind or visually impaired and also connects individuals with resources that may help them understand benefit eligibility. If you or someone you know wants to check programs such as SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, or related assistance, you can visit nhftb.org/finder. Your donated vehicle becomes support for a mission-focused nonprofit instead of sitting unused.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the vehicle sells
Once the sale is complete, your tax documentation is prepared and mailed. For vehicles that sell for more than $500, you will receive IRS Form 1098-C. For vehicles that sell for $500 or less, you will receive a written acknowledgment. The full donation process, from initial contact through mailed tax receipt, typically takes about 2-6 weeks depending on pickup timing, sale date, and mail delivery. Keep your receipt with your tax records, and speak with a tax professional if you have questions about deductibility.
Key facts about car donation
There is no cost to donate: pickup, towing, and processing are free for San Antonio Metro donors.
A coordinator usually calls within 1-2 business hours after you submit the donation form.
Same-day or next-business-day pickup is available in most metro areas when scheduling allows.
You sign the Texas title over at pickup, and the driver removes the vehicle.
Heritage for the Blind is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446.
Tax documentation is mailed after sale: Form 1098-C over $500, written acknowledgment at $500 or under.