How to Donate a Computer to Charity

Computers have become a necessity for most of us, offering the ability to work, correspond and obtain information and entertainment. But if new technology has left you with a garage full of old equipment, donate your computer to a charity that can refurbish and reuse it.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Purchase a new computer and be sure it's in proper working order before you decide to let go of the old one. Copy any necessary files over to the new hard drive.

2. Remove all personal files and data from the computer or find a charity that guarantees it will erase the hard drive or remove all personal data.

3. Gather all of the other computer-related accessories you'd like to donate such as a monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer and scanner. Also look for the computer's original paperwork, operating manuals and software documentation, diskettes or compact discs.

4. Check on the organization's requirements for accepting computers. Some may insist they're in good working condition and no more than 5 years old, for example. Others may accept non-working computers for teaching purposes.

5. Ask if you'll need to drop the computer off or if the organization, school or business will pick the equipment up.

6. Make a list of what you've donated and ask for a receipt for tax purposes. You'll be eligible for a deduction, typically the market value of the computer.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can't find a charity that will accept your computer, contact your city hall about its recycling policies. Most will collect computers and other electronic equipment on designated days.