FAQs
How does this all work
Do you manage end-of-lifecycle corporate computers?
Yes, we provide a completely free service offering to businesses including onsite certified data wiping, pickup and reuse.
Do you accept scrap computers for recycling?
Yes! We can accept any computer no matter the age. If it is a PIII 700Mhz or older we will recycle it at no cost. Non-functional CRT screens are not accepted, but can be recycled for a $10 fee.
Can someone reuse my old computer?
Most people use computers for internet, e-mail, word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and finances. If your computer is less that 5 years old it can be reused as is for any of these tasks. If you don’t know how old the computer is check to see if the processor speed is at least 700MHz or greater. Please make sure any donated equiptment has all drive bay and side covers.
How do I check my processor speed?Follow the instructions at this link, http://kb.iu.edu/data/aiiu.html, for your version of Windows.
Is there anything I need to do to my computer?If the computer is dirty clean it up.
Remove any disks – check the CD-Rom drive, floppy drive and any storage built into the computer case itself.
Bring along all power cords. Remember any power supplies for LCD monitors and laptops.
Check to see if everything is in working order.
- Computers less than 7 years old or at least 700MHz processor
- CRT Monitors 17" or larger and 10 years old or newer
- All LCD Monitors
- Printers including ink/toner
- Most accessories are accepted please check via the email link at the bottom of the page
Many donors feel more comfortable if they have removed all their personal information before donating a computer. You are certainly welcome to do so, however every computer we receive is wiped and Windows is reinstalled before being distributed. For more information check out DBAN.
My computer meets your requirements where do I drop it off?Twin Cities – You may drop your computer off at 1481 Marshall Ave in St. Paul Monday-Thursday
between 10AM and 5:30PM. Please make an appointment for other times, csorensen@pcsforpeople.com.
Also check our updated hours for Holiday schedules.
Mankato – Make an appointment with Andy Elofson, 507-304-4291.
If you’re located in the St. Paul area you may check to see if we will pick up your donation. Donations are picked up when time permits. Larger business donations are picked up state wide.
What happens to my computer after I donate it? Who will reuse it?Computers are distributed to those most in need. Currently 80% of our recipients have never owned a computer before! All recipients are low income families and individuals or people with disabilities.
Should I include my keyboard, mice and cables?Yes, please include all accessories you may have.
Should I include the computer manuals and disks?Manuals are not necessary, but you may bring them along if you like.
I have a monitor do you want it?We will accept any CRT 17” or larger and in working order. All working LCD monitors are accepted. Due to hazardous materials and sheer size monitors cost more to recycle that any other computer part. We are not a recycler and have a limited budget to pay for recycling, so please make sure donated monitors are working.
Will you take my printer?We will take any printer that is in working order and has ink or toner. It is very important that ink is included, please double check to make sure the printer actually prints before donating. Many of our clients are financially troubled and the cost of ink is in more than they can afford and in some cases more than the value of the printer!
Will you take a Mac computer?We will take Macintosh computers (G4 and newer), but currently do not refurbish Macs. This means that we require a Mac to be ready to distribute to a recipient at the time of donation. To prepare a computer for distribution remove all personal information with wiping software and a clean reinstall the Operating system is recommended. Verify the computer is in working order and drop it off at PCs for People.
Ensuring Privacy of Your Data
I have important documents on my computer will you remove them?Yes, we follow Department of Defense and National Institute of Standards and Technology guidelines, so data is not only deleted, but unrecoverable.
Disposal Options
I have older CRT monitors and accessories where can I take them for recycling?Check with your local Best Buy. Most will accept up to 2 electronic components for recycling per day at no cost. Also, your city may offer free pickup with your trash.
Tax-Deductible Donations
Am I eligible for a tax break if I donate my old electronics?The IRS code provides a tax deduction for property donated to a charitable organization under applicable rules and regulations. For individuals, the charitable deduction for contributions of technology equals the fair market value (retail used value in the current market place) of the donated property.
Can you tell me the fair market value of my donation?No, legally we are not allowed to provide the value of a donation. For tax purposes a donor may claim the fair market value of the goods donated. One way to determine value would be to find a similar product for sale on the internet.
Do I get a tax receipt?After drop off or pickup of your donation it is inventoried and an email receipt will be sent containing our tax id number and tax year of the donation.