How the car donation process works
Start With the 2-Minute Form or a Call
Begin by filling out the quick online donation form through TuneIn Rides or by calling Heritage for the Blind directly. You will be asked for basic contact information, the vehicle location in Nashville Metro, and simple details like year, make, model, mileage, and whether the vehicle runs. You do not need to know everything perfectly before you start; the coordinator can help clarify details. There is no cost to submit the form, no obligation to continue until you confirm pickup, and no towing fee at any point in the donation process.
A Coordinator Calls Back to Schedule Pickup
After your form is submitted, a donation coordinator typically calls back within 1-2 business hours. They confirm your vehicle information, answer questions, and help schedule a free tow at a time that works for you. Pickup can often be arranged from a home, apartment, workplace, repair shop, storage lot, or other accessible location across Nashville Metro. Donors in areas like Green Hills, Hermitage, Smyrna, Mount Juliet, Goodlettsville, and Gallatin can ask about local availability during the call. The coordinator will also explain what paperwork to have ready.
Your Vehicle Is Picked Up for Free
In most metro areas, a licensed tow truck can arrive the same day or next business day, depending on schedule and vehicle access. The driver will meet you at the agreed location, check the vehicle, and collect the signed title. You will sign the title over at pickup, so it helps to have the title in hand and remove personal belongings before the truck arrives. If the car does not run, has a flat tire, or has been sitting for a while, that is usually fine. The tow remains free.
The Vehicle Goes to Auction or a Parts Reseller
Once picked up, your donated car, truck, SUV, van, motorcycle, or other accepted vehicle is transported to an auction or parts reseller. The goal is to turn the vehicle into funding for Heritage for the Blind as efficiently as possible. Some vehicles are sold as complete units, while others may be more valuable for parts or salvage. You do not need to handle the sale, meet buyers, pay listing fees, or arrange repairs. The donation program manages the resale process after pickup.
Proceeds Support Heritage for the Blind
After the vehicle is sold, the proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446. Heritage for the Blind uses donated vehicle proceeds to support services for people who are blind or visually impaired. The organization also helps connect people with resources and benefit programs, including SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, and other assistance. Donors or families who want to check potential benefit eligibility can visit nhftb.org/finder to explore available support options.
Your Tax Receipt Is Mailed After the Sale
After your vehicle sells, your tax documentation is mailed to you. If the vehicle sells for more than $500, Heritage for the Blind will provide IRS Form 1098-C. If it sells for $500 or less, you will receive a written acknowledgment instead. The full process from donation start to mailed tax receipt typically takes about 2-6 weeks, depending on pickup timing, auction processing, and mail delivery. Keep your receipt with your tax records, and consult a tax advisor if you have questions about claiming a deduction.
Key facts about car donation
Pickup is free anywhere the tow provider can safely access your vehicle in Nashville Metro.
A coordinator typically 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, depending on scheduling.
You sign the vehicle title over at pickup, when the licensed tow driver arrives.
Form 1098-C is mailed for vehicles sold for more than $500.
There is no cost to the donor at any step of the car donation process.