How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute form or a quick call
Begin by completing the short Wheels for Good online donation form or calling Heritage for the Blind directly. You will share basic information: your name, pickup address, phone number, vehicle year, make, model, condition, and whether you have the title. You do not need to know the vehicle’s value or arrange repairs first. Cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and other vehicles may be accepted in many conditions. This first step is simply to gather enough information so a donation coordinator can confirm the details and help you move forward with confidence.
A coordinator calls back within 1-2 business hours
After your form is submitted or your call is received, a donation coordinator will typically contact you within 1-2 business hours. They will verify your vehicle information, answer title and pickup questions, and help choose a convenient time for free towing. If your car is parked at home in Kansas City, at work in Overland Park, near a repair shop in Independence, or at another accessible location in the Kansas City Metro, the coordinator will help route the pickup. You will never be asked to pay for scheduling or towing.
Free pickup is scheduled at your Kansas City location
In most metro areas, a licensed tow truck can arrive the same day or the next business day, depending on scheduling, access, and local availability. Pickup can often happen from a driveway, apartment lot, mechanic’s shop, storage area, or curbside location as long as the tow operator can safely reach the vehicle. At pickup, you will sign the title over as instructed. Please remove personal belongings, take off license plates if required by Missouri guidance, and have keys and title ready when possible.
Your vehicle is transported for sale or parts
Once the tow operator loads the vehicle, it is transported to an auction, salvage buyer, or parts reseller based on its condition, mileage, age, and local market options. You do not have to negotiate with buyers, list the vehicle, meet strangers, or pay for storage. Whether your vehicle runs well, needs a major repair, or has been sitting for months, the donation program works to process it efficiently. This step is handled behind the scenes after pickup, so you can move on without the hassle.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind
After the vehicle is sold, proceeds are directed to Heritage for the Blind, a recognized 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. If you or someone you know may need help finding benefits, Heritage also offers a benefit eligibility tool at nhftb.org/finder, including connections to programs such as SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, and other assistance options. Your Kansas City donation becomes part of that mission.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the vehicle sells
The full donation process typically takes 2-6 weeks from your first contact through sale and mailed tax documentation. After the vehicle sells, your tax receipt is mailed to the address you provided. For vehicles that sell for more than $500, you will receive IRS Form 1098-C. For vehicles that sell for $500 or under, you will receive a written acknowledgment. Keep this paperwork with your tax records and consult your tax advisor about your specific deduction. There is no cost to you at any point in the process.
Key facts about car donation
The donation form takes about two minutes, and calling Heritage for the Blind is also an option.
A coordinator typically calls back within 1-2 business hours to confirm details and schedule pickup.
Free towing is available across much of the Kansas City Metro, often same day or next business day.
You sign the title over at pickup, then the vehicle is moved for auction or parts resale.
Tax documentation is mailed after sale: Form 1098-C over $500 or written acknowledgment at $500 or under.
There is no cost to the donor for scheduling, pickup, towing, or donation processing.