Why TVs Require Special Disposal
TVs — especially older CRT models — contain lead, mercury, cadmium, and other hazardous materials. In 25+ states, disposing of electronics in regular trash is illegal. Even in states where it’s technically legal, recycling is the responsible choice.
CRT TVs (the heavy, deep boxy models) have the highest lead content and are the most restricted. Flat-screen TVs (LCD, LED, OLED, plasma) have lower hazardous content but still contain materials that shouldn’t go to landfill.
Free Recycling Options
Best Buy
Best Buy recycles TVs at every U.S. store location:
- TVs 32 inches and under: free
- TVs 33 inches and larger: $29.99 fee
- CRT TVs: accepted with fee (size-based)
- No purchase required
Staples
Staples accepts TVs for recycling for free at all store locations. Drop off at the tech recycling bin near the copy center. No size limit stated, though call ahead for very large screens.
Municipal E-Waste Collection Events
Most counties host e-waste collection events 2–4 times per year — free for residents, no limits on quantity in most cases. Search your county’s environmental health or public works website, or use earth911.com and search “television” with your ZIP code.
Manufacturer Take-Back Programs
| Manufacturer | Program | Cost |
| Samsung | Samsung Recycling Direct — mail-in or drop-off locator | Free |
| LG | LG Electronics Recycling — drop-off via earth911 partners | Free |
| Sony | Sony Take Back Recycling via partners | Free |
| Vizio | Partners with recyclers; varies by state | Free–small fee |
Donating a Working TV
Working flat-screens with HDMI inputs have real donation value. Organizations that typically accept them:
- Goodwill — drop-off at most locations
- Salvation Army — call local branch; some accept TVs
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore — accepts working electronics in some locations
- Facebook Marketplace / Craigslist Free — working TVs move fast as free listings
CRT TVs are almost universally refused by donation organizations — no one wants them, and they’re expensive to recycle.
Junk Removal for TVs
If you’re already booking a junk removal job for other items, adding a TV is usually straightforward with a small surcharge:
| TV Type | Typical Add-On Surcharge | Standalone Minimum |
| Flat-screen (any size) | $20–$40 | $75–$125 |
| CRT / tube TV | $30–$60 | $75–$125 |
| Large projection TV | $50–$100 | $100–$150 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I throw an old TV in the trash?
In most states, no. CRT TVs (the old boxy ones) and many flat-screens contain hazardous materials (lead, mercury, cadmium) and are classified as e-waste. Throwing them in regular trash is illegal in 25+ states. Flat-screens are legal to trash in some states but recycling is always preferable.
Where can I recycle a TV for free?
Best Buy accepts TVs for recycling at all store locations (small fee for large TVs). Staples accepts TVs free. Many manufacturers run take-back programs. Municipal e-waste collection events (often 2–4 times per year) are free for residents. Search earth911.com for locations near you.
How much does junk removal charge to take a TV?
Flat-screen TVs: $20–$40 per TV as an add-on to a junk removal job, or $75–$125 minimum if that's all you're removing. CRT TVs cost more ($30–$60) due to higher recycling fees. Most companies won't take TVs as a standalone job below their minimum charge.
Does Best Buy recycle TVs for free?
Best Buy recycles TVs up to 32 inches for free. TVs 33 inches and larger have a $29.99 recycling fee. This applies to both flat-screens and CRTs. No purchase required — just bring it to the customer service desk or recycling station.
Can I donate my old TV?
Working flat-screen TVs can be donated to Goodwill, Salvation Army, or Habitat ReStore. CRT TVs are almost universally refused by donation organizations — too heavy, outdated, and hard to move. If your TV powers on and has HDMI inputs, it likely has donation value.
What is the Best TV recycling option for a CRT TV?
CRTs are the hardest to dispose of. Best options: (1) Municipal e-waste events — free for residents. (2) Best Buy — accepts CRTs with a $29.99 fee for large sizes. (3) Junk removal — they handle the recycling for you ($30–$60 fee). (4) Earth911.com locator for local e-waste recyclers.