How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute online form or a quick call
Begin by completing Rev Up Local's simple online donation form or by calling Heritage for the Blind directly. You will share basic details such as the vehicle year, make, model, condition, mileage if known, title status, and where the vehicle is located in the St. Louis Metro. Cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and other vehicles may be considered, even if they are not running. This first step is designed to be easy and pressure-free, so you can ask questions before committing. Heritage for the Blind is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 58-2164446.
A donation coordinator calls back to schedule pickup
After your form is received, a donation coordinator typically calls back within 1 to 2 business hours. The coordinator confirms your vehicle information, answers title and pickup questions, and helps choose a convenient pickup window. Whether the vehicle is parked in a driveway in South City, a garage in University City, a lot in St. Peters, or a curbside space in Belleville, the goal is to make towing simple. You do not pay scheduling fees, towing fees, or processing fees. The pickup is arranged at no cost to you.
A licensed tow truck picks up the vehicle for free
In most metro areas, a licensed tow truck can arrive the same day or the next business day, depending on availability and your schedule. The driver comes to the pickup location you approved, whether that is your home, workplace, repair shop, apartment complex, or storage location. At pickup, you sign the title over as instructed. If another document is needed, the coordinator or tow provider will explain it beforehand. You do not need to clean, repair, or move the vehicle unless asked for access. Just remove personal belongings and license plates if required by Missouri or Illinois rules.
The vehicle is transported for auction or resale
Once the tow truck leaves, your donated vehicle is transported to an auction, wholesale buyer, or parts reseller based on its condition and marketability. A running commuter car may be handled differently than a damaged truck, high-mileage van, or vehicle with mechanical issues. The goal is to convert the donated asset into funds for Heritage for the Blind as efficiently as possible. You are not responsible for the sale, buyer negotiations, storage, or transportation after pickup. Rev Up Local and Heritage's donation process keeps the handoff straightforward.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind's mission
After the vehicle is sold, the proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind to help fund services for people who are blind or visually impaired. Heritage for the Blind also helps connect eligible individuals with resources and benefit information, including programs such as SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, and Section 8. If you or someone you care about wants to check benefit eligibility, visit nhftb.org/finder. Your St. Louis Metro vehicle donation can turn an unwanted car into support for a mission that serves people facing vision loss.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the vehicle sells
The full donation process typically takes about 2 to 6 weeks from initial form submission to tax paperwork, depending on pickup timing and how quickly the vehicle sells. After the sale is completed, Heritage for the Blind mails your tax documentation. If the vehicle sells for more than $500, you should receive IRS Form 1098-C. If it sells for $500 or less, you receive a written acknowledgment. Keep this documentation with your tax records. For questions about how to claim a deduction, please consult a qualified tax professional.
Key facts about car donation
Free towing is available throughout the St. Louis Metro, including many nearby Missouri and Illinois suburbs.
A coordinator typically calls within 1 to 2 business hours after your donation form is submitted.
Most metro pickups can be scheduled for the same day or next business day, based on availability.
You sign the vehicle title over at pickup, and the tow provider transports the vehicle.
Tax documentation is mailed after the vehicle sells: Form 1098-C over $500, acknowledgment at $500 or under.
There is no cost to the donor at any step of the Rev Up Local donation process.