How the car donation process works
Start with a mission-first donation
When you donate through Tennessee Auto Legacy, your vehicle is accepted to benefit Heritage for the Blind (EIN 58-2164446), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. You do not need to fix, clean, or sell the vehicle yourself. Donors across Knoxville Metro can begin the process online or by phone, share basic details about the vehicle, and choose a convenient pickup location. From older commuter cars near the University of Tennessee to unused SUVs in Farragut or trucks in Maryville, the process is designed to be straightforward and donor-friendly.
Schedule free pickup in Knoxville Metro
After your donation is submitted, a towing provider will contact you to arrange free pickup at a time that works for you. Pickup is available throughout Knoxville and surrounding communities, including Bearden, Karns, Powell, Fountain City, Oak Ridge, Alcoa, and Maryville. In many cases, the vehicle can be picked up from a home, apartment, workplace, repair shop, or storage location. You will receive instructions about title and keys so the handoff feels clear and organized. There is no towing charge deducted from you as the donor.
Your vehicle is sold to create charitable proceeds
Once the vehicle is picked up, it is processed for sale based on condition, title status, age, mileage, and market opportunity. The goal is to convert the donated vehicle into proceeds that can support Heritage for the Blind’s mission. You do not have to negotiate with buyers, meet strangers, pay for ads, or manage repairs. Tennessee Auto Legacy helps make the donation path easier, while 100-percent of the vehicle sale proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind to fund services for blind and visually impaired Americans.
Proceeds help fund services and benefit navigation
Heritage for the Blind uses vehicle donation proceeds to support services for people who are blind or visually impaired, including helping individuals understand and connect with assistance programs. Those programs may include SSI/SSDI, LIHEAP, Section 8, Medicare Extra Help, Medicaid, and other government benefits that can be difficult to navigate alone. If you, a loved one, or someone in your community wants to check potential eligibility for assistance programs, visit nhftb.org/finder. Your Knoxville donation helps fund practical, mission-focused support for people facing vision loss and related daily challenges.
Receive the tax paperwork you need
Because Heritage for the Blind (EIN 58-2164446) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, donations may be tax deductible for donors who itemize deductions. For vehicles that sell for more than $500, the deduction is generally based on the gross vehicle sale price, and IRS Form 1098-C is used to report that amount. You should keep your donation records with your tax documents and consult a tax professional for advice about your individual situation. Tennessee Auto Legacy helps donors understand the paperwork path without unnecessary jargon.
Key facts about car donation
Heritage for the Blind (EIN 58-2164446) is a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity serving blind and visually impaired Americans.
Free towing is available throughout Knoxville Metro, including Knoxville, Farragut, Oak Ridge, Maryville, Alcoa, and nearby communities.
100-percent of your vehicle sale proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind to fund mission-focused services.
Donors who itemize may claim a tax deduction for qualifying gifts to 501(c)(3) charities like Heritage.
For vehicles sold over $500, IRS Form 1098-C reports the gross vehicle sale price for taxes.
Knoxville donors can visit nhftb.org/finder to check potential eligibility for assistance programs Heritage helps people navigate.