How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute form or a quick call
Begin by filling out the short online donation form through Cleveland Car Connect or by calling Heritage for the Blind directly. You will share basic details such as your name, contact information, vehicle year, make, model, general condition, and where the vehicle is located in the Greater Cleveland area. You do not need to know the resale value or make any complicated decisions. This first step simply gives the donation team enough information to confirm eligibility, answer your questions, and get your free pickup moving.
A coordinator calls back within 1-2 business hours
After your form is submitted, a donation coordinator typically calls within 1-2 business hours to review the vehicle details and schedule your free pickup. This is your chance to ask practical questions about the title, keys, access to the vehicle, timing, or where the tow truck should meet you. Whether the car is parked in a driveway in Lakewood, an apartment lot near University Circle, a garage in Parma, or a workplace lot downtown, the coordinator helps arrange a convenient pickup window.
Your vehicle is picked up for free
In most metro areas, including much of Greater Cleveland, licensed towing can often be scheduled for same-day or next-business-day pickup when availability allows. The tow truck comes to your chosen location, and there is no towing charge, service fee, or hidden cost to you. At pickup, you will sign the vehicle title over as directed. If you are unsure how to sign the Ohio title, wait for instructions from the coordinator or driver so the paperwork is completed correctly.
The vehicle is transported for sale or parts
Once picked up, your donated car, truck, van, SUV, motorcycle, or other eligible vehicle is transported to the appropriate resale channel. Depending on its condition, mileage, age, and market demand, it may go to auction or to a parts reseller. You do not have to repair, clean, advertise, negotiate, or meet buyers. Cleveland Car Connect and Heritage for the Blind keep the process moving while the vehicle is prepared for sale in the way most appropriate for its condition.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind
After the vehicle sells, the 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. The organization also helps connect people with information about benefit programs such as SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, and other assistance resources. Donors or families who want to check possible benefit eligibility can visit nhftb.org/finder for a simple starting point.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the sale
Your tax documentation is mailed after the vehicle sells. If the vehicle sells for more than $500, Heritage for the Blind provides IRS Form 1098-C. If it sells for $500 or less, you receive a written acknowledgment. The full donation process, from your first form or call to receiving the receipt by mail, typically takes about 2-6 weeks, depending on pickup timing, title completion, sale processing, and mail delivery. Keep your receipt with your tax records and consult a tax advisor for deduction questions.
Key facts about car donation
Free towing is available across Cleveland and many Greater Cleveland neighborhoods and suburbs.
A coordinator typically follows up within 1-2 business hours after you submit the form.
There is no cost to the donor at any step of the donation process.
You sign the title over at pickup, with guidance provided if you have questions.
Tax receipts are mailed after sale; Form 1098-C is issued for vehicles over $500.
The complete process usually takes 2-6 weeks from start to mailed receipt.