How the car donation process works
Start with the 2-minute donation form or a quick call
Begin by completing Revive Auto’s secure online donation form, which usually takes about two minutes. You will share basic contact information, the vehicle’s location in the St. Paul or Twin Cities area, and a few details about the car, truck, van, SUV, motorcycle, or other vehicle. If you prefer to speak with someone, you can call Heritage for the Blind and let the team know you want to donate through Revive Auto. You do not need to know the vehicle’s value, arrange towing, or make any payment to get started.
A coordinator calls back within 1 to 2 business hours
After your form or call is received, a donation coordinator will contact you within 1 to 2 business hours during normal business times. This call is simple and practical: the coordinator confirms the vehicle details, pickup address, title status, access instructions, and your preferred timing. Whether the vehicle is parked in a driveway in Macalester-Groveland, a garage in Frogtown, a lot near downtown St. Paul, or at a suburban address in Woodbury or Eagan, the goal is to schedule pickup around your day.
Your free tow is scheduled at your St. Paul location
Once pickup is scheduled, a licensed tow truck is assigned to come to your vehicle’s location. In most metro areas, including much of St. Paul and the Twin Cities, pickup is available same-day or next business day when scheduling and tower availability allow. The tow is free, and the vehicle does not need to run. Please have the keys and title ready if available. At pickup, you will sign the title over as instructed, remove personal belongings, and the driver will load the vehicle.
The vehicle goes to auction or a parts reseller
After pickup, your donated vehicle is transported to the appropriate resale channel. Depending on its age, condition, mileage, and market demand, it may be sent to an auction or to a parts reseller. You do not need to attend the sale, negotiate with buyers, pay storage fees, or handle paperwork with a reseller. Revive Auto and Heritage for the Blind manage the process after towing so your donation can be converted into funding for the nonprofit mission as efficiently as possible.
Sale proceeds support Heritage for the Blind’s mission
When the donated vehicle sells, the proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446. Heritage for the Blind uses vehicle donation proceeds to help fund services and resources for people who are blind or visually impaired. That means a vehicle you no longer need in St. Paul can become meaningful support for a charitable mission. Revive Auto’s role is to make the donation process straightforward while Heritage receives the benefit of the completed vehicle sale.
Your tax receipt is mailed after the vehicle sells
After the vehicle is sold and processed, your tax receipt is mailed to you. The entire process typically takes about 2 to 6 weeks from donation to receipt, depending on pickup timing and sale processing. For vehicles that sell for more than $500, Heritage for the Blind will issue IRS Form 1098-C. For vehicles that sell for $500 or under, you will receive a written acknowledgment. Keep the receipt with your tax records, and speak with a qualified tax professional about how the deduction may apply to your return.
Key facts about car donation
Your tow is free anywhere Revive Auto can schedule service in the St. Paul and Twin Cities area.
Most metro pickups can happen the same day or next business day with an available licensed tower.
Heritage for the Blind is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 58-2164446; eligible donations may be tax-deductible.
Form 1098-C is mailed for vehicles sold for more than $500; smaller sales receive a written acknowledgment.
No repair, detailing, smog check, or auction appointment is required before your donated vehicle is picked up.
The full process typically takes about 2 to 6 weeks, depending on pickup timing and sale processing.