With offices expanding, relocating or just preparing for new purchases, many businesses have extra office furniture, desks, chairs and equipment they need to get rid of. But instead of throwing away these items, donating them to charities can help your business in ways you might not expect. It’s a great way to limit your business expenses while helping veterans, homeless people and underprivileged families. Plus, it’s an environmentally friendly option that supports a circular economy.
A variety of charities will welcome your donations of used electronics, furniture and supplies. These organizations may use them directly for their needs or resell them at charity auctions or to the general public. Depending on the value of the donation, you may be eligible for tax deductions.
Some of these non-profits have local branches that can distribute the donated items to offices, schools and low-income families. Others work with national distributors that can send the equipment to various locations across the country. Some of these distribution centers and resale outlets will also refurbish the donated goods before selling them.
For example, iLoveSchools is an online organization where teachers create wishlists of supplies they need for their students. This can include anything from any type of writing instruments to folders, paper and pens. Other groups, such as Operation Give, support U.S. troops and their families, both while they’re on active duty and after military service. This group accepts a wide range of supplies for children and adults, including office furniture.
Other charities will take larger electronics or furniture such as desks, cubicle walls and cabinets for sale at auctions to raise money for their programs. The Salvation Army, a well-known American charity that provides community services and helps the homeless, will take large electronics and some types of furniture. You can check with your local branch to see if they have an electronic or furniture donation program.
Donated items may also be refurbished and sold to a private party for use in their homes or businesses. This option can save the cost of buying brand-new equipment and a possible tax benefit. A charity with a refurbishing department can work with your business to evaluate the value of an item and arrange for a pick-up or drop-off time.
Another alternative is to sell the used equipment back to the manufacturer for resale, either as a full refund or to a third-party refurbisher. This can be an excellent option for high-end or technologically advanced equipment that you need to upgrade or replace, but it might not be a good choice for small or medium-sized businesses. This option can also require you to pay sales taxes. If you choose this option, make sure your tax consultant is up-to-date on any changes in laws on this practice. Otherwise, you may find yourself paying more in taxes than you would if you simply sold the equipment to a private buyer. Valerie L. Sizelove is a freelance writer and working mother of four. She writes for Fairygodboss about all things working motherhood.
