What to expect
Locked devices
Apple and Google have steps for a deceased owner's accounts.
Receipts
Ask your tax preparer how the donation applies to the estate.
Ship or pickup
Ship single items after approval. Larger estates can ask about pickup.
Wiped before reuse
Every device is wiped with Acronis before it's reused.
Donating computers from an estate
A thoughtful way to handle a loved one's devices
Computers, tablets and phones are often among the last things sorted in an estate. Donating them lets the devices help someone else.
Before you donate
Save photos and documents the family wants. Remove the devices from the person's Apple, Google or Microsoft accounts if you can. Apple and Google both have processes for executors and next of kin.
If you can't unlock a device, tell us on the form.
Personal data
We wipe every device with Acronis before reuse. If the family prefers, remove the drives and keep them.
Receipts and the estate
Giving Center provides a written acknowledgment for the donation. Ask the estate's CPA or attorney how a donation from the estate is handled.
Our tax guide explains fair market value and the records the IRS expects.
From list to pickup
We review every donation before anything moves. We can't promise acceptance or a timeline, but we'll reply with next steps.
- 1
Send your list
Counts by type, brands, condition and an estimated value. A spreadsheet or photos are fine.
- 2
We review it
We let you know what we can use and plan the next step with you.
- 3
Pickup or shipping
Bulk donations are picked up in all states. Smaller ones ship after approval.
Your data
Every device is wiped with Acronis before it's reused. Businesses can request a certificate of data destruction for their records.
If your policy requires it, you can remove drives before donating. Just note it on the form.
Data and wipe guidesReceipts and taxes
Computers with Causes is a program of Giving Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. We provide a donation receipt. We don't appraise equipment or promise a deduction amount, so ask your tax preparer what applies to your business.
Read the tax guideCommon questions
Often yes. See our Activation Lock guide for options when the owner has passed away.
The estate, as the donor.
Yes. List the items on one form.
Yes. Note your role on the form.
See our Activation Lock guide. Apple has a process for family members with the right documents.
Yes, case by case. List them on the form.
Tell us what you have
Fill out the form and our team will review it. Every donation is considered case by case.