How the car donation process works
Start with the title you have
If you have a clean title in your name, you are in the easiest position to donate. For Phoenix Metro donors, that usually means you can schedule free towing, meet the driver at pickup, and sign the title over to Heritage for the Blind. Keep the title unsigned until pickup unless you are specifically instructed otherwise. The tow driver brings the pickup paperwork and helps confirm the vehicle information. Wheels to Worth can arrange pickup across Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale, Peoria, Gilbert, Surprise, and nearby communities.
If the title is lost, call before you give up
A lost title does not automatically end the donation. Heritage for the Blind can guide you through the state process for replacing a missing title or determining whether another acceptable path may apply. Requirements depend on where the vehicle is titled, not just where it is parked today. If your car is in Phoenix but the last title was issued elsewhere, say that when you call. In some cases, vehicles without titles can still be considered, but the team needs to review the year, condition, location, and available ownership documents first.
If there is a lien, get the release first
If a bank, credit union, finance company, or other lender is listed on the title, the lien must be satisfied before the vehicle can be donated with a clear transfer. That usually means the loan is paid off and the lender releases the title or provides the proper lien-release document. If you are unsure whether a lien remains, contact the lender before pickup. Wheels to Worth can answer donation questions, but the lender controls the lien release. Having the release ready helps prevent delays on pickup day.
If the car is in someone else’s name, explain the relationship
The title should normally be signed by the legal owner listed on it. If the vehicle is titled to a spouse, parent, relative, former partner, or business, the paperwork depends on who has authority to transfer it. If the titled owner has passed away, you may need probate documents, a small-estate affidavit, an affidavit of heirship, or similar paperwork depending on the state involved. Call before scheduling so Heritage for the Blind can help identify what may be needed and avoid a wasted tow trip.
Out-of-state titles are commonly accepted
Many Phoenix Metro vehicles started in California, Nevada, Colorado, New Mexico, or another state before landing in Arizona. That is okay. A title from another U.S. state can often be accepted as long as it is valid and transferable. The key is matching the signed owner, vehicle identification number, and any required lien-release paperwork. Do not try to convert the title at the Arizona MVD just for donation unless instructed. Call Wheels to Worth first and share exactly what state issued the title.
At pickup, sign over the title and keep your records
On pickup day, the tow driver brings the necessary donation and pickup paperwork. You sign the title over to Heritage for the Blind, hand over the keys if available, and the driver removes the vehicle at no cost. After the title handoff, donors typically do not need an in-person DMV or MVD visit just to complete the donation transfer. Keep copies of your paperwork, towing receipt, and later tax documents. For vehicles that sell for more than $500, Heritage for the Blind issues IRS Form 1098-C.
Key facts about car donation
A clean title is preferred, but lost-title situations can often be reviewed before you schedule pickup.
Any active lien must be satisfied, and the lender must release the title before transfer.
The title is signed over to Heritage for the Blind at pickup, not to the tow company.
Out-of-state titles are accepted when ownership and transfer requirements are clear.
Vehicles without titles can sometimes be accepted; call to discuss your exact paperwork.
Free towing is available throughout Phoenix Metro, including suburbs and surrounding neighborhoods.