How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute online form or call Heritage
Begin by telling Green Wheels a few basics about the vehicle and where it is located in Vermont. The online form usually takes about two minutes, or you can call Heritage for the Blind if you prefer to speak with someone. Helpful details include the year, make, model, mileage if known, condition, whether it starts, and the pickup address. You do not need to know the vehicle value or repair history to get started. Cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and many other vehicles can be reviewed for donation.
A coordinator calls back within 1-2 business hours
After your form or call is received, a donation coordinator typically calls back within 1-2 business hours to confirm the information and schedule your free pickup. You can choose a location that works for you, such as your home in Essex Junction, an office lot in Burlington, a family property near Rutland, or a repair shop in Montpelier. The coordinator will also answer title questions, explain what to have ready, and help you choose a pickup window. There is no towing charge and no processing fee at any step.
Free pickup is scheduled, often same-day or next business day
In many Vermont metro areas, a licensed tow truck can arrive the same day or the next business day, depending on driver availability, weather, and your location. Rural pickups across the Champlain Valley, Northeast Kingdom, and southern Vermont may require a little more routing time, but the tow is still free. At pickup, have the title, keys, and any lien release ready if applicable. In most cases, you sign the title over when the driver arrives. If your vehicle is not running, flat-tired, or parked in a driveway, the coordinator will plan for that.
Your vehicle is moved to auction or a parts reseller
Once the tow truck removes the vehicle, it is transported to the appropriate sale channel, commonly an auction or parts reseller. The goal is to turn the donated vehicle into the highest practical charitable value based on its condition, demand, and local resale options. You do not need to clean, repair, inspect, or advertise the vehicle. Green Wheels and Heritage for the Blind manage the handoff and sale process after pickup, so you are not responsible for negotiating with buyers or arranging any additional transportation.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind
After the vehicle sells, the proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446. Heritage for the Blind uses donations to help fund services and resources for people who are blind or visually impaired. Your unused vehicle can become practical support for a mission that matters, without costing you money for towing or pickup. If you or someone you know wants to check eligibility for benefit programs, Heritage also shares resources at nhftb.org/finder for SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, and related assistance.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the vehicle sells
The full donation process typically takes about 2-6 weeks from first contact to final tax paperwork, depending on pickup timing and when the vehicle sells. After the sale is complete, your receipt is mailed to you. For vehicles that sell for more than $500, Heritage for the Blind provides IRS Form 1098-C. For vehicles that sell for $500 or under, you receive a written acknowledgment. Keep this paperwork with your tax records and consult a tax professional about how the deduction may apply to your personal return.
Key facts about car donation
Pickup is free anywhere Green Wheels can route a licensed Vermont-area tow provider.
A coordinator usually calls within 1-2 business hours after your form is submitted.
Same-day or next-business-day towing is often available in Burlington, Rutland, Barre, and nearby metro areas.
You generally sign the vehicle title over at pickup when the tow driver arrives.
IRS Form 1098-C is mailed for vehicles sold for more than $500.
There is no cost to you for the form, scheduling, towing, sale process, or receipt.