How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute form or call Heritage
Begin online with RideForward’s quick donation form or call Heritage for the Blind directly. You will share basic information such as the vehicle year, make, model, condition, mileage if known, title status, and where the vehicle is located in Greater Philadelphia. Cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and some non-running vehicles may be accepted. You do not need to know the vehicle’s value to start. If you are gathering paperwork first, look for the Pennsylvania title, keys, and any lien release if the title still shows a lender.
A coordinator calls back within 1-2 business hours
After you submit the form, a donation coordinator typically calls within 1-2 business hours to confirm the details and answer questions. This is when you can explain any parking challenges, such as a tight rowhome street in South Philly, a garage in Center City, a driveway in the Main Line, or a lot in Northeast Philadelphia. The coordinator will help schedule your free pickup at a time that works for you and tell you what to have ready when the licensed tow truck arrives.
Your vehicle is picked up for free
In most metro areas, including much of Greater Philadelphia, pickup can often happen the same day or the next business day. A licensed tow truck comes to the location you choose, whether that is your home, workplace, mechanic, storage lot, or apartment parking area. You will sign the title over at pickup, following the instructions provided by the coordinator or tow driver. If the vehicle does not start, has flat tires, or has been sitting for a while, mention that early so the right towing equipment can be sent.
The vehicle goes to auction or a parts reseller
Once towed, the vehicle is transported to an auction or parts reseller, depending on its condition, age, local demand, and whether it is better suited for resale or parts. You do not need to handle advertising, buyer messages, test drives, payment collection, or junkyard negotiations. RideForward and Heritage for the Blind’s donation process handles the logistics after pickup. This is especially helpful in Philadelphia, where selling a used or non-running vehicle privately can become time-consuming fast.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind
After the vehicle sells, proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446. Heritage for the Blind helps fund services and resources for people who are blind or visually impaired. Heritage also helps connect people with benefit information and eligibility resources, including SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, and related programs. Donors who want to check benefit eligibility for themselves or someone they care about can visit nhftb.org/finder.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the sale
After the vehicle sells, your tax receipt is mailed to you. For vehicles that sell for more than $500, Heritage for the Blind provides IRS Form 1098-C. For vehicles that sell for $500 or under, you receive a written acknowledgment. The full process, from the first form or call to the mailed receipt, typically takes about 2-6 weeks, depending on pickup timing, auction schedule, and mail delivery. Keep your receipt with your tax records, and ask a tax professional how vehicle donation rules apply to your return.
Key facts about car donation
Free towing is available throughout Greater Philadelphia; you pay nothing for pickup, processing, or receipt mailing.
A coordinator usually calls within 1-2 business hours after your online form is submitted.
Same-day or next-business-day pickup is available in most metro areas when scheduling and tow capacity allow.
You generally need the vehicle title, keys, pickup address, and accurate condition details to prepare.
Heritage for the Blind is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 58-2164446, and issues donation tax documentation.