How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute form or a quick call
Begin by completing the secure online donation form for Gear Up Give Back or calling Heritage for the Blind directly. You will share basic details: your name, contact information, vehicle location, year, make, model, condition, and whether you have the title. Donors in Modesto Metro can start from home, work, a repair shop, storage lot, or wherever the vehicle is accessible. This first step usually takes about two minutes and does not obligate you to pay anything. Heritage for the Blind, EIN 58-2164446, is the nonprofit beneficiary.
A coordinator calls back to schedule free pickup
After your form or call, a donation coordinator typically calls back within 1-2 business hours to confirm the details and schedule your free tow. The coordinator will help choose a convenient pickup window and answer questions about title signing, keys, access, or special location notes. Whether your vehicle is parked in central Modesto, Village One, Coffee-Sylvan, Ceres, Riverbank, or Turlock, the goal is to make pickup easy and low-stress. You do not need to clean, repair, or smog the vehicle before donating.
A licensed tow truck picks up the vehicle
In most metro areas, a licensed tow truck can arrive the same day or next business day, depending on driver availability and your schedule. Pickup is free, and there is no hidden towing charge. When the driver arrives, you will sign the vehicle title over at pickup and hand over the keys if available. If you are unsure how to sign your California title, wait for instructions so it is completed correctly. The vehicle may be picked up from a driveway, curbside, parking lot, mechanic, or business location.
Your vehicle is moved for sale or resale
After pickup, the vehicle is transported to an auction, recycler, or parts reseller based on its condition, marketability, and available local channels. Running vehicles, non-running cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and some specialty vehicles may all be considered. You do not need to negotiate with buyers, arrange ads, meet strangers, or manage DMV-related sale logistics yourself. The donation program handles the next steps after towing, with the goal of converting your unwanted vehicle into proceeds that support Heritage for the Blind’s mission.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind
Once the vehicle sells, net proceeds are directed to Heritage for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, EIN 58-2164446. Heritage for the Blind helps fund services and resources for people who are blind or visually impaired. Heritage also connects eligible individuals with public benefit information, including SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, and other support programs. Donors who want to check benefit eligibility for themselves or someone they know can visit nhftb.org/finder for more information.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the sale
After the vehicle sells, your tax documentation is mailed to you. For vehicles that sell for more than $500, you will receive IRS Form 1098-C. For vehicles that sell for $500 or under, you will receive a written acknowledgment. The entire donation timeline, from first contact to final mailed receipt, typically takes about 2-6 weeks depending on pickup scheduling, sale timing, and mail delivery. Keep your receipt with your tax records and consult a qualified tax professional for advice about your specific deduction.
Key facts about car donation
Free towing is available for donors throughout Modesto Metro and nearby Stanislaus County communities.
A coordinator typically calls within 1-2 business hours after you submit the form or call.
Most metro pickups can be scheduled for same-day or next-business-day service when available.
You sign the title at pickup, and the driver takes the vehicle from your chosen location.
IRS Form 1098-C is mailed for vehicles selling for more than $500.
There is no cost to you for the form, scheduling, towing, sale handling, or receipt mailing.