How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute donation form or call
Begin by completing the quick online donation form or calling Heritage for the Blind. You will share basic details such as your name, contact information, the vehicle’s year, make, model, general condition, and where it is located in the Indianapolis area. You do not need to know the vehicle’s value, and you do not need to pay anything to start. Indy Car Connect is designed for donors who want a low-stress process, whether the vehicle runs perfectly, has been sitting for months, or needs repairs.
A coordinator calls back within 1–2 business hours
After your form is submitted, a donation coordinator typically calls back within 1–2 business hours to confirm the vehicle information and answer your questions. This is the best time to discuss pickup access, title status, preferred timing, and any special notes, such as an apartment garage, office lot, driveway, repair shop, or storage location. If you are in Indianapolis, Lawrence, Beech Grove, Avon, Noblesville, Westfield, or another Indy Metro community, the coordinator will work to match you with a convenient free pickup window.
Free pickup is scheduled at your location
In most metro areas, a licensed tow truck can pick up your donated vehicle the same day or the next business day, depending on availability and location. Pickup is free at every step, and you usually do not have to be present if the title and keys can be handled according to the coordinator’s instructions. The tow company will arrive at the agreed location, check the vehicle, and load it for transport. At pickup, you sign the title over so the donation can move forward properly.
Your vehicle goes to auction or a parts reseller
Once the tow is complete, your car, truck, van, SUV, motorcycle, or other eligible vehicle is transported to an auction or parts reseller. The goal is to create the best practical return based on condition, demand, and resale options. Some vehicles are sold to new buyers, while others may be valued for usable parts. You are not responsible for repairs, detailing, advertising, negotiating, or meeting strangers from a classified listing. Indy Car Connect keeps the handoff simple so your unwanted vehicle can become support for a charitable mission.
Proceeds support Heritage for the Blind
After the vehicle sells, the proceeds go 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. The organization also helps connect people with information about benefit programs such as SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, and Section 8. Donors or community members who want to check benefit eligibility can visit nhftb.org/finder for guidance. Your donation turns an unused vehicle into meaningful support without costing you anything.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the sale
When the vehicle has sold and the paperwork is processed, your tax receipt is mailed to you. The entire process typically takes about 2–6 weeks from donation to mailed receipt, depending on pickup timing, sale date, and processing. For vehicles that sell for more than $500, Heritage for the Blind provides IRS Form 1098-C. For vehicles that sell for $500 or less, you receive a written acknowledgment. Keep the receipt with your tax records and consult a tax professional if you have questions about claiming a deduction.
Key facts about car donation
There is no cost to donate, schedule pickup, tow the vehicle, or receive your tax receipt.
Most Indy Metro pickups can be scheduled same-day or next business day, based on availability.
You sign the title over at pickup so the donation can be processed correctly.
Tax receipts are mailed after sale; vehicles over $500 receive IRS Form 1098-C.
Heritage for the Blind is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446.
The full donation process typically takes 2–6 weeks from start to mailed receipt.