How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute form or a quick call
To begin, fill out Crescent Wheels’ secure 2-minute online donation form or call Heritage for the Blind directly. You’ll share basic information about the vehicle, such as the year, make, model, approximate condition, mileage if known, and where it is located in Greater New Orleans. You do not need to know everything perfectly before starting. If the car is not running, has flat tires, or is parked in a driveway, garage, lot, or curbside spot, just include that detail so the pickup can be planned correctly.
A coordinator calls within 1-2 business hours
After your form or call is received, a donation coordinator typically contacts you within 1-2 business hours to confirm details and schedule your free pickup. This call is your chance to ask questions before committing, including title questions, timing, access to the vehicle, or whether someone else can be present. Pickup is available throughout the Greater New Orleans area, including Uptown, Lakeview, New Orleans East, Harahan, Gretna, Terrytown, Westwego, Mandeville, and Covington, depending on tow availability.
Prepare your title, keys, and pickup location
Before the tow truck arrives, gather the vehicle title, keys if available, and any lien release paperwork if the vehicle was previously financed. Make sure the car is accessible, especially on narrow New Orleans streets, shared driveways, apartment lots, or gated properties. At pickup, you sign the title over as directed, and the licensed tow driver provides the pickup paperwork. There is no towing charge, no hidden fee, and no cost to you at any step of the donation process.
Your vehicle is picked up for free
In most metro areas, a licensed tow truck can arrive the same day or the next business day, depending on your location and schedule. If your vehicle is in a busy area like the French Quarter, Bywater, Central City, or near the riverfront, the coordinator may help choose the easiest pickup window. The vehicle does not have to pass inspection or run. Cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and other eligible vehicles are accepted in many conditions, as long as pickup can be completed safely.
The vehicle is sold to create charitable proceeds
After pickup, your donated vehicle is transported to an auction or parts reseller. The goal is to generate the best practical sale outcome based on the vehicle’s age, condition, local market demand, and resale or parts value. The sale proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 58-2164446. Heritage for the Blind uses donated vehicle proceeds to help fund services and resources for people who are blind or visually impaired.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the sale
Once the vehicle sells, your tax receipt is mailed to you. If the vehicle sells for more than $500, Heritage for the Blind sends IRS Form 1098-C. If it sells for $500 or under, you receive a written acknowledgment. The entire donation process typically takes about 2-6 weeks from start to receipt, depending on pickup timing, sale timing, and mail delivery. Keep your documents with your tax records and speak with a tax professional about your individual deduction.
Key facts about car donation
Free towing is included for eligible vehicle donations throughout Greater New Orleans and nearby Northshore communities.
A coordinator usually calls within 1-2 business hours after you submit the donation form.
Same-day or next-business-day pickup is often available in most metro New Orleans areas.
Heritage for the Blind is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 58-2164446.
Tax receipts are mailed after sale: Form 1098-C over $500, written acknowledgment at $500 or under.
Visit nhftb.org/finder to check possible benefit eligibility for SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, and more.