Free Furniture Removal: A Win-Win for You and Charitable Organizations
Moving furniture can be a daunting task, especially when you're dealing with bulky items that have outlived their usefulness in your home. But what if you could get rid of your unwanted furniture without the hassle of moving it yourself, and at the same time, contribute to a good cause? Welcome to the world of free furniture removal services offered by various charitable organizations.
Why Donate Your Furniture?
Donating your furniture not only declutters your space but also helps these charities in their mission to support various societal causes. The furniture you donate is either used directly by those in need or sold in thrift stores to raise funds for the charity's programs.
You may also be entilted to claim a tax deduction. Check with your accountant or read up on the rules before you file you return. Here are some handy IRS tips for deducting charitable donations.
Who Offers Free Furniture Removal?
There are numerous reputable organizations that offer free furniture removal services. Here are some of the most reliable ones:
- Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA): If your furniture isn't too heavy for one person to carry, VVA is a perfect choice. They are dedicated to helping Vietnam veterans and others who serve in harm's way.
- Out of the Closet Thrift Stores: This organization accepts furniture donations of all sizes, which are then sold at their thrift stores. Funds raised provide support for people dealing with HIV/AIDS.
- Furniture Bank: By donating your gently used furniture to Furniture Bank, you're helping to send pieces to families that need it to get back on their feet.
- Habitat for Humanity: This organization is well known for building homes for people in need. You can make a difference by donating furniture to the Habitat ReStore.
- The Salvation Army: This Christian organization encourages education and poverty relief, among other causes. They offer a pretty cool donation value guide, which is helpful for people wondering how much they can claim in terms of tax deductions for the wide variety of furniture they accept.
- Goodwill: Goodwill's major objective is to help people who have serious employment barriers. Most Goodwill donations take place on-site, but they usually will arrange pickup for large, difficult-to-move items, such as furniture.
- Donation Town: This site functions nationwide and connects people with local charities that will pick up furniture and other donations for free.
- American Veterans (AMVETS): This decades-old group helps veterans obtain the benefits they're entitled to. Furniture isn't a guaranteed pick-up, but the organization encourages people to inquire if they have a piece or two to donate.
- The Arc: The Arc endeavors to give people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families the tools they need to fully participate in community life.
- Green Drop: This east coast-based non-profit is more than happy to pick up furniture weighing less than 50 pounds. Funds raised through the sale of these items generate big bucks for the organizations they support.
How to Schedule a Free Furniture Removal
Once you've identified a charity that accepts your furniture, it's time to schedule a donation pick-up. Here are some tips to consider:
- Coordinate with Your Landlord or Neighbors: Ask your landlord if you're permitted to leave any items outside your apartment complex, especially if you live in a large building.
- Donate Quality Furniture: Donated furniture typically needs to be in decent shape, meaning free of stains, rips, and other damage.
- Write Off Your Furniture Donation: Ask the charity about a tax receipt or other paperwork to use for tax time.
- Give Stuff Away For Free: If you still can’t find a charity to accept your furniture donation, try a site like Freecycle.
- Pay it Forward: When scheduling a furniture donation pick-up, everyone wins!
In conclusion, free furniture removal is a win-win situation. You get to declutter your space, and the donated furniture goes towards supporting a worthy cause. So, the next time you're thinking about getting rid of your old furniture, consider donating it to a charitable organization.