How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute form or a quick call
Begin by completing Ride Forward’s simple online donation form or calling Heritage for the Blind. You’ll share basic information about the vehicle, such as the year, make, model, general condition, location, and whether you have the title. You do not need to know the vehicle’s value, and it is okay if the car is not running. Donors throughout Austin-Round Rock can start from home, work, a repair shop, or wherever the vehicle is located. Heritage for the Blind, EIN 58-2164446, receives the proceeds after sale.
A coordinator calls within 1-2 business hours
After your form is submitted, a donation coordinator typically calls back within 1-2 business hours. This call confirms your vehicle details, answers your questions, and helps schedule free pickup at a time and place that works for you. Whether the vehicle is in North Austin, Buda, Lakeway, Round Rock, or a nearby suburb, the coordinator will look for the most convenient pickup window available. You will also be reminded what to have ready, including the vehicle title and any keys you have.
Free pickup is scheduled at your Austin-area location
In most metro areas, a licensed tow truck can arrive the same day or the next business day, depending on availability and your schedule. There is no cost to you at pickup or at any other step. The tow driver comes to the agreed location, which may be your driveway, apartment complex, office parking lot, storage facility, or mechanic’s shop. At pickup, you sign the title over as instructed. Remove personal belongings and license plates if required by Texas guidance.
Your vehicle is moved to auction or a parts reseller
Once the vehicle is picked up, it is transported to an auction or, when appropriate, a parts reseller. This step is handled for you, so you do not need to advertise the car, meet buyers, negotiate a price, or arrange towing across Austin traffic. Cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and other eligible vehicles are evaluated through the donation program’s resale process. The goal is to convert your unwanted vehicle into support for Heritage for the Blind’s mission as efficiently as possible.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind
After the vehicle sells, the proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind, a real 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446. Your donation helps fund services and resources for people who are blind or visually impaired. That means an unused car in Austin-Round Rock can become meaningful mission support without you paying for towing, repairs, listing fees, or buyer meetups. Ride Forward keeps the donor experience straightforward, while Heritage for the Blind receives the benefit of the vehicle’s sale.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the sale
Your tax receipt is mailed after the vehicle sells. 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 full donation-to-receipt timeline is typically 2-6 weeks, depending on pickup timing, resale processing, and mail delivery. Keep your receipt with your tax records, and speak with a tax professional if you have questions about claiming a vehicle donation deduction.
Key facts about car donation
Free towing is included from Austin-area homes, apartments, offices, storage lots, repair shops, and driveways.
A coordinator typically calls within 1-2 business hours after you submit the donation form.
Pickup is often available same-day or next business day in most Austin-Round Rock metro locations.
You sign the vehicle title over at pickup, and the driver tows the vehicle away.
Your mailed tax receipt arrives after sale, usually within the full 2-6 week process.
There is no cost to the donor at any step of the Ride Forward donation process.