Computer donation guides

Short, plain guides to get your device ready, pack it safely and understand your receipt.

Back up your files before you donate

Before you wipe a device, save what you want to keep. It takes a few minutes and means nothing important leaves with the computer. Read the guide

How to wipe a Windows PC before donating

Windows has a built-in reset that removes your files, apps and accounts. We wipe every device with Acronis before reuse, but doing this first protects you and saves time. Read the guide

How to erase a Mac before donating

Signing out and erasing your Mac protects your files and releases it from your Apple Account, so the next person can set it up. Read the guide

Turn off Activation Lock before donating

Activation Lock ties an iPhone, iPad, Mac or Apple Watch to an Apple Account. If it's still on, the next person can't set the device up, even after it's erased. Read the guide

How to Powerwash a Chromebook before donating

A Powerwash returns a Chromebook to factory settings in a few minutes. First, make sure no school or company still manages it. Read the guide

Reset an Android phone or tablet before donating

Remove your Google account first, then reset. If you reset without removing it, Factory Reset Protection asks the next person for your password. Read the guide

Donating a device when you forgot the password

A forgotten password doesn't always stop a donation. Most devices can be reset without it. The exception is an account lock, like Apple Activation Lock or Google Factory Reset Protection. Read the guide

Packing and shipping checklist

Please wait until your form is approved. We send the shipping address and instructions only after review, so don't ship anything before you hear from us. Read the guide

Computer donation tax deductions: the 2026 guide

Donating a computer to Computers with Causes can lower your federal income tax if you itemize. This guide explains who can deduct, how to value used equipment, the paperwork the IRS expects, and the rule changes that began with the 2026 tax year. It is general information, not tax advice. Read the guide