How the car donation process works
You start the donation and schedule a free Massachusetts pickup
The process begins when you submit your vehicle information to Velocity Vehicle. You do not need to know the car’s exact value, and you do not need to get it running before you call. Free towing is available throughout Massachusetts, including dense city neighborhoods like Dorchester, Jamaica Plain, and East Boston, as well as suburbs such as Newton, Framingham, Brockton, Peabody, Waltham, and Chicopee. Once your donation is accepted, a pickup time is arranged that works for you, and the vehicle is removed at no cost.
After pickup, the vehicle is assessed for the best sale path
Your donated car is not automatically sent to one place. After pickup, the vehicle is assessed based on practical factors such as whether it starts, overall condition, mileage, age, damage, title status, and likely resale demand. This review helps determine the selling method most likely to generate value for Heritage for the Blind. A clean, running sedan in Somerville may be handled differently than a high-mileage SUV in Worcester or a non-running pickup in New Bedford. The goal is simple: turn the vehicle into charitable proceeds efficiently and responsibly.
Running vehicles usually go to public or dealer auction
If your donated vehicle runs and appears to be in resalable condition, it will typically be offered through a public or dealer auction. Auctions allow buyers to compete for the vehicle based on its real-world market appeal. This is common for cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and even some specialty vehicles that still have road value. The final sale amount depends on buyer demand, condition, mileage, and other market factors. Once sold, the gross sale price is reported for tax documentation when required, and the proceeds become revenue for Heritage for the Blind.
Non-running or worn vehicles may be sold for salvage or parts
Not every donated car is ready for resale, and that is okay. Vehicles with major mechanical problems, heavy mileage, collision damage, rust, missing components, or failed inspections are typically directed to licensed salvage or parts buyers. That can include cars that have been sitting in a driveway, a minivan that no longer starts, or an older truck that is too expensive to repair. Selling the vehicle for parts or salvage can still create value. Instead of paying to dispose of it, your unwanted vehicle can support Heritage for the Blind’s mission.
Proceeds fund Heritage for the Blind, and you receive tax paperwork
After the vehicle sells, the proceeds go directly to Heritage for the Blind, EIN 58-2164446, a recognized 501(c)(3) charity serving people who are blind or visually impaired. These sale proceeds are the charity’s revenue from your donation. If your vehicle sells for more than $500, you receive IRS Form 1098-C showing the gross sale price for your tax records. Many donors use that amount as the basis for their charitable vehicle donation deduction, subject to IRS rules and their personal tax situation. You should keep the form and consult a tax professional if needed.
Your donation helps connect people with services and resources
The benefit of your donated vehicle is not limited to what happens at auction or salvage. The proceeds help Heritage for the Blind provide services and connections for blind and visually impaired Americans. Heritage also helps people explore benefit resources such as SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, and related programs. If you or someone you know wants to check benefit eligibility, visit nhftb.org/finder. Your Massachusetts car donation can take an unused vehicle from your driveway and convert it into mission-supporting revenue for a nonprofit that focuses on accessibility, guidance, and support.
Key facts about car donation
Free towing is available across Massachusetts, including Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Lowell, Cambridge, Quincy, and nearby suburbs.
After pickup, each vehicle is assessed so the selling method matches its condition, mileage, age, and resale potential.
Running vehicles in resalable condition typically go to public or dealer auction to attract competitive buyers.
Non-running, damaged, or high-mileage vehicles typically sell to licensed salvage or parts buyers for remaining value.
Heritage for the Blind, EIN 58-2164446, is a 501(c)(3); vehicle sale proceeds are charitable revenue.
For vehicles sold over $500, donors receive IRS Form 1098-C showing the gross sale price for tax records.