How the car donation process works
Start with a 2-minute form or a quick call
Begin by completing the short online donation form with First State Autos or by calling Heritage for the Blind directly. You will share basic contact information, the vehicle location, and details such as year, make, model, mileage, title status, and whether the car starts. You do not need to know the vehicle's value or prepare lengthy paperwork before reaching out. Donors across Delaware, from Wilmington and Claymont to Dover, Smyrna, and Milford, can start the same way. Heritage for the Blind, EIN 58-2164446, is the nonprofit beneficiary of your donation.
A coordinator calls back to schedule free pickup
After your form is submitted or your call is received, a donation coordinator typically calls back within 1-2 business hours. The coordinator confirms your vehicle details, answers questions, and helps schedule a free tow at a time that works for you. Pickup can often be arranged at your home, workplace, mechanic, storage lot, or another accessible Delaware location. You will also be told what to have ready, including the signed title, keys if available, and any instructions for where the vehicle is parked.
A licensed tow truck comes to your location
A licensed tow truck is dispatched for your free pickup, with same-day or next-business-day service available in most metro areas when scheduling and carrier availability allow. This includes many neighborhoods and suburbs around Wilmington, Newark, New Castle, Dover, Middletown, Bear, and nearby Delaware communities. At pickup, you sign the title over as instructed, remove your personal belongings, and hand over the keys if you have them. The tow driver provides pickup documentation, and there is no towing bill, hidden fee, or out-of-pocket cost.
Your vehicle is taken to auction or a parts reseller
Once picked up, your donated vehicle is transported to the appropriate sale channel. Depending on condition, age, mileage, and local market demand, it may go to an auction or to a parts reseller. Running cars, damaged vehicles, older trucks, vans, SUVs, and some non-running vehicles may all be considered. The goal is to handle the vehicle responsibly and convert it into proceeds for the charity. You do not need to attend the auction, negotiate with buyers, or manage DMV-style sale steps after pickup.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind
After the vehicle is sold, proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446. Heritage for the Blind helps fund services for people who are blind or visually impaired and also connects individuals with information about benefit programs. If you or someone you know wants to explore eligibility for programs such as SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, or related support, you can visit nhftb.org/finder. Your car donation helps turn an unwanted vehicle into mission-focused support.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the vehicle sells
After the vehicle sells, your tax documentation is mailed to the address you provided. If the gross sale price is over $500, Heritage for the Blind provides IRS Form 1098-C. If the vehicle sells for $500 or under, you receive a written acknowledgment instead. The full donation process typically takes about 2-6 weeks from submission to sale and receipt mailing, depending on pickup timing, title readiness, and the sales process. Keep your receipt with your tax records and consult a tax professional for deduction guidance.
Key facts about car donation
Delaware car donation pickup is free, with no towing bill or processing fee charged to the donor.
A coordinator usually calls within 1-2 business hours after you submit the form or call.
You sign the vehicle title over at pickup, so have it ready before the tow appointment.
Tax paperwork is mailed after the vehicle sells, typically within the overall 2-6 week process.
IRS Form 1098-C is provided for donated vehicles that sell for more than $500.
Your donation benefits Heritage for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 58-2164446.