How the car donation process works
Start your Maryland vehicle donation
Begin by telling Chesapeake Chariots about the vehicle you want to donate and where it is located in Maryland. Donors give from city streets in Baltimore, driveways in Bethesda, garages in Towson, farms near Hagerstown, and waterfront homes around Annapolis. Your vehicle does not need to be perfect to be considered. We will ask for basic details such as year, make, model, condition, title status, and pickup address so the donation can be handled correctly and efficiently.
Schedule your free tow at a convenient time
After your donation information is reviewed, Chesapeake Chariots helps arrange free pickup with a licensed towing provider serving your area. There is no towing fee deducted from you, and you do not have to drive the vehicle anywhere. Whether the car is in Prince George's County, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, Harford County, or on the Eastern Shore, pickup is coordinated around access, paperwork, and your schedule. You will receive guidance on what to have ready before the tow truck arrives.
Your vehicle is sold to create charitable proceeds
Once the vehicle is picked up, it is processed for sale through the appropriate resale channel. The goal is to turn the donated vehicle into proceeds that can support Heritage for the Blind. Chesapeake Chariots does not invent an impact value or promise a sale price in advance because the final amount depends on the vehicle and market conditions. What matters most for mission-focused donors is that 100-percent of the vehicle sale proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind, EIN 58-2164446.
Proceeds fund services for people with vision loss
Heritage for the Blind uses vehicle proceeds to support services for people who are blind or visually impaired. That includes helping individuals understand and connect with government benefit programs that may improve stability and access to care. Depending on eligibility, people may need help exploring SSI, SSDI, LIHEAP, Section 8, Medicare Extra Help, Medicaid, and other assistance resources. Donors and community members who want to check potential benefit eligibility can visit nhftb.org/finder as a starting point.
Receive your tax documentation
Heritage for the Blind is a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 58-2164446. Donations to 501(c)(3) charities are generally tax deductible for donors who itemize deductions. If your donated vehicle sells for more than $500, your deduction is typically based on the gross sale price, and you should receive IRS Form 1098-C for your records. Keep your donation paperwork and speak with a qualified tax professional if you have questions about your specific return.
Key facts about car donation
Heritage for the Blind is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446.
Chesapeake Chariots offers free vehicle pickup throughout Maryland, including Baltimore, Annapolis, Rockville, Columbia, and nearby suburbs.
100-percent of vehicle sale proceeds go to Heritage for the Blind to support its charitable services.
Heritage helps connect people with SSI, SSDI, LIHEAP, Section 8, Medicare Extra Help, Medicaid, and related programs.
For vehicles sold over $500, donors generally receive IRS Form 1098-C showing the gross sale price.
You can check possible benefit eligibility for assistance programs at nhftb.org/finder.