How the car donation process works
You start the donation and schedule free Maine pickup
When you donate through Maine Motors Giveback, you share basic information about the vehicle, such as the year, make, model, condition, location, and whether it runs. Free towing is available for donors across Maine, including larger communities like Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, Augusta, South Portland, Scarborough, and Biddeford, as well as many surrounding towns and coastal areas. You do not need to know the vehicle’s final destination before donating. The goal at this stage is simple: make pickup convenient, remove the car without cost to you, and begin the process of turning that vehicle into revenue for Heritage for the Blind.
The vehicle is assessed after pickup
After pickup, the donated vehicle is reviewed for condition, mileage, title status, drivability, damage, and likely resale value. This assessment helps determine the most practical way to sell it. Donors often ask if the car will be repaired first. In most cases, the program focuses on efficient resale, not major restoration. If a vehicle is already running and appears suitable for resale, it is typically directed toward an auction channel. If it has serious mechanical problems, very high mileage, collision damage, rust, or missing components, it may be better suited for a licensed salvage or parts buyer.
Running vehicles typically go to public or dealer auction
A donated car, truck, van, or SUV that runs and is in resalable condition will typically be sold through a public or dealer auction. This helps expose the vehicle to buyers who understand used-vehicle value and can bid based on condition. Auction is often the best path for Maine vehicles that still have road life left, whether they come from Portland’s neighborhoods, suburban communities like Falmouth and Cape Elizabeth, or inland areas around Auburn and Waterville. The vehicle is not promised to a specific family; instead, the sale creates proceeds that support Heritage for the Blind’s charitable work.
Non-running or high-mileage vehicles may be sold for salvage or parts
If your vehicle does not run, has severe mechanical issues, is too costly to repair, or has reached the end of its useful life, it can still help. These vehicles are typically sold to licensed salvage or parts buyers. That may mean the vehicle is dismantled for usable parts, recycled, or otherwise processed according to the buyer’s licensed business. For Maine donors with older winter-worn vehicles, rusted frames, failed transmissions, or cars sitting in a driveway, this route can be a practical way to remove the vehicle while still generating revenue for Heritage for the Blind.
Sale proceeds fund Heritage for the Blind services
After the vehicle sells, the gross sale proceeds are directed to Heritage for the Blind, a real 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446. Those sale proceeds are revenue for Heritage for the Blind and help fund services for people who are blind or visually impaired. Heritage also helps connect people with benefit resources, and donors who want to check eligibility for programs such as SSI, LIHEAP, Medicare Extra Help, Section 8, and related assistance can visit nhftb.org/finder. Your donated vehicle becomes a funding source for mission-driven support, not just a car leaving your driveway.
Key facts about car donation
Free towing is available for donated vehicles in many Maine communities, from city neighborhoods to nearby suburbs and towns.
Running vehicles in resalable condition typically move to public or dealer auction after pickup and assessment.
Non-running, damaged, or high-mileage vehicles are typically sold to licensed salvage or parts buyers.
Heritage for the Blind is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 58-2164446.
For vehicles selling over $500, donors receive IRS Form 1098-C showing the gross sale price.
Your tax deduction is generally equal to the gross sale price when the donated vehicle sells for over $500.