How to Get Rid of Old Computers: 7 Safe Options [2026]

Never throw a computer in the trash — it's illegal in 25 states and exposes your personal data. Before using any disposal method, take these steps:

• •Back up your files to an external drive or cloud storage
• •Sign out of all accounts (email, browsers, apps)
• •Deauthorize software like iTunes, Adobe, and Microsoft Office
• •Factory reset the computer (Settings → Recovery → Reset This PC on Windows, or Erase All Content on Mac)
• •For maximum security: use DBAN (Darik's Boot and Nuke) to overwrite the entire hard drive, or physically remove and destroy the hard drive

If you're recycling through Best Buy or Dell Reconnect, their R2-certified partners handle data destruction — but wiping first adds an extra layer of protection.

Best Buy is the most accessible free option with 1,000+ stores nationwide. Walk in with up to 3 computers per day — desktops, laptops, monitors, keyboards, mice, and peripherals all accepted. No appointment needed.

Dell Reconnect at Goodwill accepts any brand of computer (not just Dell) at over 2,000 participating Goodwill locations across 44 states. Working computers are refurbished and resold through Goodwill stores. Non-working units are recycled through Dell's certified recycling program.

Staples accepts up to 7 electronic items per day including computers, monitors up to 32 inches, printers, and phones.

Micro Center offers free electronics recycling at all store locations — a good option if you're near one of their 25 stores.

Best Buy's recycling partners are R2-certified, which means they follow documented data destruction processes — including degaussing, shredding, or overwriting hard drives. However, Best Buy does not guarantee individual data destruction before the unit reaches their recycling partner.

For peace of mind, always wipe your hard drive yourself before dropping off any computer. On Windows: Settings → System → Recovery → Reset this PC → Remove Everything. On Mac: System Settings → General → Transfer or Reset → Erase All Content and Settings. For SSDs, a factory reset is sufficient. For older HDDs, use DBAN or physically remove and drill through the hard drive platters.

Most major computer manufacturers offer free recycling of their own branded products:

• •Apple: Free recycling of any Apple computer, monitor, or peripheral at any Apple Store. Working Macs may qualify for trade-in credit through Apple Trade-In. Mail-in recycling available with prepaid shipping label.
• •Dell: Free recycling through Dell Reconnect (Goodwill partnership) or direct mail-in via Dell's recycling portal. Dell Trade-In offers credit for eligible devices of any brand.
• •HP: Free recycling through HP Planet Partners program. Request a prepaid shipping label online for HP-branded hardware.
• •Lenovo: Trade-in and recycling program for Lenovo products. Check lenovo.com for current offerings.
• •Samsung: Free drop-off at authorized recycling locations for Samsung electronics.

If your computer is under 5 years old and still functions, donation is the most impactful option. Organizations that accept working computers:

• •Goodwill: All makes and models through 3,300+ locations. Working computers are resold; proceeds fund job training programs.
• •Computers with Causes: National charity accepting laptop and desktop donations of any brand. They refurbish and distribute to people in need.
• •World Computer Exchange: Ships refurbished computers to schools and organizations in developing countries.
• •Local schools and libraries: Many accept working computers directly. Call ahead to check current needs.

Donations may qualify for a tax deduction — get a receipt and check IRS guidelines for fair market value. Always wipe your data before donating.

Paid pickup makes sense when you have multiple computers, heavy CRT monitors, or full desktop towers you can't easily transport. Dropcurb charges $79 for same-day curbside pickup — just place computers at the curb and your hauler loads them onto a pickup truck. Additional items cost $19-$39 each depending on size.

For office cleanouts with 10+ computers, 1-800-GOT-JUNK ($150+ minimum) or LoadUp ($75+ per item) offer in-building pickup. Some local e-waste recyclers offer free pickup for businesses with large quantities since the components have resale value — call around and ask.