How the car donation process works
Start your Chicagoland car donation
Begin by sharing basic details about your car, truck, van, SUV, or other eligible vehicle with Gear Up Giving. You do not need to know the final sale value, and your vehicle does not have to be perfect to make a difference. Donors across Chicago neighborhoods and nearby suburbs can start the process from home. We will help confirm the vehicle information, answer questions about title and pickup, and make sure your donation is directed to Heritage for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 58-2164446.
Schedule free pickup at a convenient location
Once your donation is submitted, a towing appointment is arranged at no cost to you. Pickup may be available throughout Chicagoland, including areas such as the Loop, Hyde Park, Logan Square, Wicker Park, Naperville, Skokie, Orland Park, and Arlington Heights. You can usually choose a home, workplace, repair shop, parking lot, or other accessible location. The goal is to remove the hassle from donating, especially if the car is no longer reliable, registered, or easy for you to move.
Your vehicle is sold to generate mission funding
After pickup, the vehicle is prepared for sale through the appropriate channel based on its condition, age, mileage, and market demand. The important point for mission-minded donors is this: 100-percent of the vehicle sale proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind. Those proceeds help fund services for people who are blind or visually impaired. Instead of sitting unused in a Chicago garage, alley, driveway, or suburban lot, your car becomes a source of charitable support for individuals and families who need help navigating vision-related challenges.
Proceeds help fund services and benefits guidance
Heritage for the Blind uses vehicle donation proceeds to support services for people who are blind or visually impaired, including help connecting individuals with public assistance programs. This can include guidance related to SSI, SSDI, LIHEAP, Section 8, Medicare Extra Help, Medicaid, and other resources that may reduce financial pressure. Donors, families, and individuals looking for assistance can also visit nhftb.org/finder to check eligibility for available programs. Your donated car helps strengthen this type of practical support.
Receive the tax documentation you need
Because Heritage for the Blind is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446, qualifying donations may be tax deductible for donors who itemize deductions. If your vehicle sells for more than $500, your deduction is generally based on the gross vehicle sale price, and IRS Form 1098-C is provided for your tax records. You should keep your receipt and consult a tax professional for personal guidance. Gear Up Giving helps make the documentation process clear so you can give with confidence.
Key facts about car donation
Heritage for the Blind is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446.
100-percent of your vehicle sale proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind.
Free towing is available for many donated vehicles throughout Chicago and the wider Chicagoland region.
Proceeds support services for people who are blind or visually impaired, including benefits connection and guidance.
For vehicles selling over $500, IRS Form 1098-C reports the gross sale price for tax records.
Individuals can check benefit eligibility for SSI, LIHEAP, Medicaid, Section 8, and more at nhftb.org/finder.