How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute form or a quick call
Begin by completing Carolina Charities Auto’s simple online donation form, which usually takes about two minutes. You can also call Heritage for the Blind directly if you prefer to talk with someone before committing. You will be asked for basic contact information, the vehicle’s location in the Raleigh area, and details such as year, make, model, mileage, and condition. Do not worry if the car does not run or has been sitting in a driveway, apartment lot, or garage. The goal is simply to confirm the vehicle and start your free pickup request.
A pickup coordinator calls within 1-2 business hours
After your form is submitted, a donation coordinator will typically call back within 1-2 business hours to review your information and schedule a convenient pickup time. This is your chance to ask practical questions, such as where the tow truck should park, whether the driver can access the vehicle, and what paperwork is needed in North Carolina. Raleigh donors often schedule pickups from home, work, storage lots, mechanic shops, or family properties. The coordinator will also confirm that the tow is free and that you will not be charged for handling, pickup, or processing.
Your vehicle is picked up for free
A licensed tow truck is dispatched to your Raleigh-area location, with same-day or next-business-day pickup available in most metro areas when scheduling permits. Free towing is commonly available throughout the Research Triangle, including Five Points, Brier Creek, Knightdale, Morrisville, Holly Springs, and nearby suburbs. Please have the vehicle title ready, remove personal belongings, and provide any keys you have. At pickup, the driver will guide you through signing the title over. You do not need to clean, repair, or detail the vehicle before donation.
The vehicle is sent to auction or a parts reseller
Once the tow is complete, the vehicle is transported to the appropriate resale channel. Depending on its age, mileage, condition, and market demand, it may go to an auction or to a parts reseller. This step helps determine the vehicle’s final sale value. Cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, motorcycles, and other vehicles may qualify, whether they are running or not. Carolina Charities Auto and Heritage for the Blind work to move the vehicle through the process efficiently, so you can wait for your official tax paperwork without managing the sale yourself.
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 uses donated vehicle proceeds to help fund services for people who are blind or visually impaired. Donors who want to learn about benefit eligibility resources can also visit nhftb.org/finder, where Heritage connects people with programs such as SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, and related assistance options. Your Raleigh car donation becomes more than a way to clear space -- it helps support a charitable mission.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the sale
When the vehicle has been sold, your tax documentation is mailed to you. For vehicles that sell for more than $500, donors receive IRS Form 1098-C. For vehicles that sell for $500 or less, donors receive a written acknowledgment. The full process, from initial donation request to mailed tax receipt, typically takes about 2-6 weeks, depending on pickup timing, sale processing, and mail delivery. Keep your receipt with your tax records, and consult a tax professional if you have questions about claiming a charitable deduction.
Key facts about car donation
Free towing is available for Raleigh and Research Triangle donors, with no pickup fee or hidden donor charge.
Most pickup coordinators call within 1-2 business hours after you submit the online donation form.
Same-day or next-business-day pickup is available in most metro areas when scheduling and access allow.
You sign the North Carolina title over at pickup; the driver can guide the basic handoff.
Tax paperwork is mailed after sale: Form 1098-C over $500, written acknowledgment at $500 or under.
Heritage for the Blind is a 501(c)(3) charity, EIN 58-2164446, serving people with vision loss.