How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute form or a quick call
Begin by completing CarLift Baltimore's simple online donation form or calling Heritage for the Blind. You will share basic details: your name, pickup address, vehicle year, make, model, approximate condition, and whether you have the title. You do not need to know the vehicle's value, and your car does not have to be running to be considered. This first step usually takes about two minutes and does not obligate you to proceed. It simply gives the donation team the information needed to confirm pickup options in the Baltimore Metro.
A coordinator calls back to schedule your free pickup
After your request is received, a donation coordinator typically calls back within 1 to 2 business hours. The coordinator confirms your vehicle details, answers questions, and helps choose a pickup window that works for you. Pickup is free, whether the vehicle is parked at your home, office, repair shop, apartment lot, or another accessible location. Donors in neighborhoods such as Federal Hill, Parkville, Catonsville, Essex, and Reisterstown can usually be scheduled quickly, depending on tow availability and title readiness.
A licensed tow truck arrives and you sign the title
In most Baltimore Metro areas, a licensed tow truck can arrive the same day or the next business day after scheduling. The driver will identify the vehicle, load it safely, and collect the signed title and any required keys or documents. You will sign the title over at pickup, so it helps to have the title ready and remove personal belongings beforehand. If you have questions about where to sign, ask the coordinator before pickup. There is no towing charge, mileage fee, or hidden cost to you.
Your vehicle is moved to auction or a parts reseller
Once picked up, the vehicle is transported to an auction facility or a parts reseller, depending on its age, condition, mileage, and marketability. A running car may go through an auction channel, while a damaged or non-running vehicle may be better suited for parts or salvage resale. This is handled behind the scenes, so you do not need to negotiate, advertise, meet buyers, or arrange storage. CarLift Baltimore and Heritage for the Blind keep the process moving so the vehicle can be sold and documented properly.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind's mission
After the vehicle sells, proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, EIN 58-2164446. Your donation helps fund services and connections for people who are blind or visually impaired. Heritage also provides resources for people looking for assistance programs; donors or community members who want to check possible benefit eligibility can visit nhftb.org/finder for help exploring programs such as SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, and related support options. Your unused vehicle becomes meaningful support without adding work or expense for you.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the vehicle sells
Your tax documentation is mailed after the vehicle is sold and the final sale amount is confirmed. 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 donation process, from initial form or call to mailed receipt, typically takes about 2 to 6 weeks, depending on pickup timing and sale processing. Keep your receipt with your tax records and consult a tax advisor about your specific deduction.
Key facts about car donation
Pickup is free throughout the Baltimore Metro, with no towing charge to the donor.
Coordinators typically call within 1 to 2 business hours after your form or call.
Same-day or next-business-day towing is available in most metro areas when scheduling allows.
You sign the vehicle title over at pickup, so have it ready if available.
IRS Form 1098-C is mailed for vehicles selling for more than $500.
The entire start-to-receipt process usually takes about 2 to 6 weeks.