Need to dispose of your old computer?

By Elizabeth A. Brown, managing editor

Your new computer is humming on your desk. So what do you do with the old one collecting dust in the corner?

If the equipment still runs well, give it to a charitable organization. But don't just drop off your computer. Make sure the charity can refurbish your machine and that the organization accepts the model you're giving away. When you donate computer equipment, you can deduct the fair market value of your system as well as shipping costs if applicable. Look for a church or job-training organization when it comes time to donate, and request a receipt listing the fair market value of your system.

If your computer equipment doesn't work, recycle it. You'll likely pay a small fee--restrictions prohibit dropping equipment curbside because the circuits contain such toxic elements as lead and cadmium. To find a local company and avoid shipping your equipment for disposal, look in the yellow pages under "Recycling."

July 2000 Veterinary Economics