Where to Donate Medical Equipment: A Complete Guide

If you have a wheelchair, walker, hospital bed, crutches, or other medical equipment that you no longer need, donating it may help another person access useful equipment at little or no cost. However, finding where to donate medical equipment can depend on the type of item, its condition, and the donation programs available in your area.

Many nonprofit organizations, medical equipment reuse programs, community groups, and charitable organizations accept used durable medical equipment. Some offer local pickup, while others require donors to drop off items at a collection center. Acceptance policies vary, so it is important to contact an organization before transporting or shipping equipment.

This guide explains where you may be able to donate used medical equipment, how to find local donation programs, which items are commonly accepted, how to prepare equipment for donation, and what to know about possible tax deductions.

Quick Answer: Where Can You Donate Medical Equipment?

You may be able to donate medical equipment to:

• Local medical equipment reuse programs
• Nonprofit organizations
• Community lending closets
• Centers for Independent Living
• Senior centers and aging organizations
• Veterans’ service organizations
• Faith-based charities
• Local disability support organizations
• International medical relief organizations
• Thrift stores that accept medical equipment
• Community organizations that lend equipment to people in need

Before donating, contact the organization and ask whether it currently accepts your specific item. Donation policies may depend on available storage, safety requirements, local regulations, and current community needs.

Do not leave medical equipment outside a donation center unless the organization specifically allows unattended drop-offs.

Where to Donate Medical Equipment Near You

The best donation option is often a local organization because large medical equipment can be difficult or expensive to transport.

Start by searching for medical equipment reuse programs, lending closets, nonprofit organizations, and disability service groups in your city or county.

You can also contact local hospitals, rehabilitation centers, senior centers, or social service agencies. Even if they do not accept donations directly, they may know about nearby organizations that do.

How to Find Medical Equipment Donation Programs Near You

Finding a local organization that accepts medical equipment may take more than a general online search. Donation programs vary by state and community, and some organizations accept equipment only when they have enough storage or a current need for the item.

Use the following resources to find possible donation, reuse, or referral programs in your area.

Check Your State Assistive Technology Program

Every U.S. state and territory has an Assistive Technology Act Program. These programs help people access assistive technology and may operate or provide information about device reuse, equipment exchange, demonstration, or loan programs.

Depending on the state, a program may help with equipment such as:

• Wheelchairs
• Walkers
• Mobility devices
• Communication equipment
• Computer-access devices
• Daily living aids
• Other assistive technology

Not every State Assistive Technology Program accepts donated medical equipment directly. However, program staff may know about reuse organizations or equipment exchange programs in your state.

Use the AT3 Center directory to find the program serving your state or territory. Then contact the program and ask whether it accepts donations or can refer you to a local equipment reuse organization.

Authoritative Source: AT3 Center – AT Act Programs Directory

Search the Centers for Independent Living Directory

Centers for Independent Living (CILs) are community-based organizations that support independent living for people with disabilities.

Some centers operate assistive technology programs, equipment lending closets, reuse services, or community resource programs. Others may know about local organizations that accept wheelchairs, mobility equipment, or daily living aids.

The ILRU directory allows users to search for Centers for Independent Living by state and territory. Contact the nearest center before bringing equipment because services and donation policies differ by location.

Authoritative Source: Independent Living Research Utilization – Directory of Centers for Independent Living

Contact an Area Agency on Aging Through Eldercare Locator

Area Agencies on Aging coordinate or connect people with local services for older adults, caregivers, and families.

An Area Agency on Aging may know about:

• Medical equipment lending closets
• Durable medical equipment reuse programs
• Senior assistance organizations
• Local nonprofit programs
• Community transportation or pickup resources

The Eldercare Locator is a public service of the U.S. Administration for Community Living. Enter a ZIP code, city, county, or state to find aging-related resources in the area.

You can also call or text 1-800-677-1116 to speak with trained Eldercare Locator staff.

Official Source: U.S. Administration for Community Living – Eldercare Locator

Contact Your Local 211 Service

Local 211 services connect people with health, disability, caregiver, and community resources.

Call 211 and ask whether there are medical equipment reuse programs, lending closets, disability organizations, or charities that accept used equipment in your area.

Be prepared to provide:

• Your city or ZIP code
• The type of equipment
• The equipment’s condition
• Whether transportation or pickup is needed

Local resources differ, and 211 may not have a donation program available in every community. However, it can be a useful starting point when online searches do not provide clear local options.

Authoritative Source: 211 – Find Local Community Resources

Call Before You Donate

After finding a possible organization, contact it before transporting the equipment.

Ask:

• Do you currently accept this type of equipment?
• Does the equipment need to meet age or condition requirements?
• Are any parts or accessories required?
• Is an appointment necessary?
• Do you offer pickup?
• Is there a fee for pickup or transportation?
• Will you provide a donation receipt?

For large equipment, provide the manufacturer, model number, approximate age, dimensions, condition, and photographs if requested.

Do not leave equipment outside an organization unless it specifically permits unattended donations.

1. Medical Equipment Reuse Programs

Medical equipment reuse programs collect used equipment, inspect it, and make it available to people who need it.

Depending on the program, donated items may be:

• Cleaned
• Sanitized
• Inspected for safety
• Repaired
• Refurbished
• Loaned or given to eligible individuals

These programs commonly accept mobility and home-care equipment. However, each organization has its own rules.

Some programs accept only equipment that is clean and fully functional. Others may have technicians who can repair certain items.

Search online using terms such as:

• “Medical equipment donation near me”
• “Durable medical equipment reuse program”
• “Donate wheelchair near me”
• “Medical equipment lending closet”
• “Used medical equipment donation”

Contact the program before visiting because accepted items and drop-off hours may change.

2. Medical Equipment Lending Closets

A medical equipment lending closet is a community program that loans equipment to people who need it temporarily.

These programs may be operated by:

• Local nonprofit organizations
• Senior centers
• Community centers
• Religious organizations
• Disability support groups
• Local government or aging agencies

Lending closets may accept items such as:

• Wheelchairs
• Walkers
• Canes
• Crutches
• Shower chairs
• Bedside commodes
• Transfer benches

Some programs provide equipment for a limited period, while others allow people to use it as long as necessary.

Because lending closets often have limited storage, they may temporarily stop accepting certain items when their inventory is full.

3. Centers for Independent Living

Centers for Independent Living are community-based organizations that support people with disabilities.

Some centers operate equipment reuse or assistive technology programs. Others may connect donors with local organizations that accept durable medical equipment.

Depending on the location, a center may accept or help distribute:

• Manual wheelchairs
• Power wheelchairs
• Mobility scooters
• Walkers
• Assistive technology
• Communication devices
• Daily living aids

Not every center accepts equipment directly. Contact the organization before bringing an item.

4. Local Nonprofit Organizations

Local nonprofit organizations may collect medical equipment and provide it to people with limited income, older adults, people with disabilities, or individuals recovering from illness or surgery.

Possible organizations include:

• Disability assistance nonprofits
• Community action agencies
• Senior support organizations
• Homeless service organizations
• Local charitable foundations
• Community health organizations

Some nonprofits accept equipment throughout the year. Others hold temporary collection events.

Ask whether the organization:

• Accepts your type of equipment
• Requires an appointment
• Offers pickup
• Provides a donation receipt
• Has condition or age requirements

5. Senior Centers and Area Agencies on Aging

Senior centers may know about local medical equipment donation programs, even when they do not accept equipment directly.

An Area Agency on Aging may also be able to provide information about community resources for older adults and caregivers.

Local programs may need equipment such as:

• Walkers
• Wheelchairs
• Canes
• Shower chairs
• Transfer benches
• Bedside commodes

Acceptance varies by location. Some organizations may refer donors to an equipment lending program or nonprofit partner.

6. Veterans’ Organizations

Some veterans’ service organizations and local veterans’ support groups accept medical equipment or help connect donors with veterans who need mobility equipment.

Possible donations may include:

• Wheelchairs
• Mobility scooters
• Walkers
• Canes
• Crutches
• Accessibility equipment

Do not assume that every veterans’ organization accepts physical donations. Contact the local office and explain the type, condition, size, and location of the equipment.

7. Faith-Based and Community Organizations

Churches, mosques, synagogues, and other faith-based organizations sometimes operate medical equipment lending programs or assist local families who need equipment.

Community organizations may also maintain small equipment closets for temporary use.

These groups may be helpful when donating common items such as:

• Walkers
• Canes
• Crutches
• Wheelchairs
• Shower chairs

Ask whether the organization accepts used equipment and whether it has enough storage space.

8. International Medical Relief Organizations

Some nonprofit organizations collect medical equipment and supplies for hospitals, clinics, and communities outside the United States.

These organizations may accept specialized equipment that local programs cannot use. However, international donation programs often have strict requirements.

They may consider:

• Equipment condition
• Remaining useful life
• Availability of replacement parts
• Electrical compatibility
• Maintenance requirements
• Shipping costs
• Current needs in receiving communities

Do not ship medical equipment without approval. Contact the organization first and provide detailed information about the item.

9. Thrift Stores and Charitable Resale Organizations

Some charitable thrift stores accept certain types of durable medical equipment, while others do not.

Commonly accepted items may include:

• Walkers
• Canes
• Crutches
• Wheelchairs
• Unopened home-care products

Many thrift stores do not accept hospital beds, prescription devices, oxygen equipment, used personal-care items, or equipment that requires specialized maintenance.

Call the local store before donating because policies may differ between locations.

10. Local Hospitals and Rehabilitation Centers

Hospitals and rehabilitation centers do not always accept used medical equipment from the public because of safety, infection-control, storage, and liability concerns.

However, their social workers, discharge planners, rehabilitation departments, or case managers may know about local reuse programs.

Ask whether they can recommend:

• Medical equipment lending closets
• Community reuse programs
• Disability service organizations
• Local charitable organizations

Do not bring equipment to a hospital without confirming that donations are accepted.

What Types of Medical Equipment Can You Donate?

The types of equipment accepted depend on the organization.

Commonly requested items may include:

• Manual wheelchairs
• Transport wheelchairs
• Walkers
• Rollator walkers
• Canes
• Crutches
• Knee scooters
• Mobility scooters
• Shower chairs
• Transfer benches
• Bedside commodes
• Raised toilet seats
• Patient lifts
• Hospital beds
• Bed rails
• Transfer boards
• Wheelchair cushions
• Reachers and dressing aids

Large, powered, or specialized equipment may require inspection before acceptance.

Some organizations accept only equipment that is less than a certain age or has replacement parts available.

Can You Donate Used Wheelchairs?

Yes. Many medical equipment reuse programs accept used manual wheelchairs.

Before donating, check whether the wheelchair:

• Rolls properly
• Has working brakes
• Has secure footrests
• Has no major frame damage
• Has a usable seat and backrest
• Is clean and free from personal belongings

Power wheelchairs may be more difficult to donate because organizations may need to inspect the battery, charger, motor, controls, and replacement-part availability.

Provide the model information when contacting a donation program.

Can You Donate Walkers, Canes, and Crutches?

Walkers, canes, and crutches are commonly accepted by equipment reuse programs and lending closets.

Before donating:

• Remove dirt and visible debris
• Check rubber tips
• Make sure height adjustments work
• Confirm that folding mechanisms operate properly
• Check wheels and brakes on rollator walkers
• Remove labels containing personal information

Do not donate equipment that is cracked, unstable, severely rusted, or unsafe to use.

Can You Donate a Hospital Bed?

Some organizations accept used hospital beds, but these donations can be more difficult to arrange.

Hospital beds are large, heavy, and may require:

• Disassembly
• Transportation
• Electrical testing
• Cleaning and sanitizing
• Safety inspection
• Replacement parts

Before offering a hospital bed, collect the following information:

• Manufacturer
• Model number
• Approximate age
• Manual or electric operation
• Working condition
• Mattress condition
• Bed dimensions
• Current location
• Whether the bed is assembled

Some programs accept the bed frame but not the used mattress.

Do not move or dismantle a hospital bed until the organization confirms that it can accept the donation.

Can You Donate a Mobility Scooter or Power Wheelchair?

Some reuse organizations accept mobility scooters and power wheelchairs, but acceptance requirements may be stricter than for manual mobility equipment.

The organization may ask:

• Does the device turn on?
• Does it drive and stop properly?
• Does the battery hold a charge?
• Is the charger included?
• Are replacement parts available?
• Is the model still supported by the manufacturer?
• Is the equipment damaged?

If possible, provide photographs, the model number, battery information, and a description of any known problems.

Do not dispose of batteries in regular household trash. Ask the donation organization or a local recycling program how unwanted batteries should be handled.

What Medical Equipment May Not Be Accepted?

Some medical items may be difficult or impossible to donate because of safety, hygiene, prescription, storage, or regulatory concerns.

Organizations may refuse:

• Damaged or unsafe equipment
• Equipment with missing parts
• Used needles or syringes
• Opened sterile supplies
• Expired medical supplies
• Used wound-care products
• Used personal hygiene products
• Prescription medications
• Oxygen tanks or oxygen equipment
• Certain respiratory devices
• Used mattresses
• Equipment with heavy stains, odors, mold, or rust
• Devices that cannot be tested or repaired

Acceptance rules differ. Never assume that an organization will accept an item because another donation center accepted something similar.

Can You Donate Unopened Medical Supplies?

Some organizations accept unused and unopened medical supplies.

Possible items may include:

• Sealed gloves
• Unopened wound-care supplies
• Sealed bandages
• Unopened incontinence supplies
• Unused ostomy supplies
• Sealed feeding supplies
• Unopened personal protective equipment

The organization may check:

• Expiration dates
• Package condition
• Storage history
• Manufacturer information
• Current demand

Do not donate opened, contaminated, damaged, or expired supplies unless the organization specifically confirms that it can accept them.

How to Prepare Medical Equipment for Donation

Proper preparation may make it easier for an organization to accept and reuse your equipment.

Step 1: Check the Equipment’s Condition

Inspect the item for:

• Cracks
• Rust
• Missing parts
• Loose components
• Broken brakes
• Damaged wheels
• Frayed electrical cords
• Battery problems
• Unusual odors
• Mold or heavy staining

Do not donate equipment that appears unsafe.

Step 2: Clean the Equipment

Remove dust, dirt, and visible debris.

Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions when available. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the equipment.

The receiving organization may perform additional cleaning or sanitization after accepting the item.

Step 3: Remove Personal Information

Remove:

• Prescription labels
• Patient names
• Address labels
• Insurance information
• Medical identification numbers
• Personal notes

For electronic medical devices, ask the organization whether stored personal information should be deleted before donation.

Step 4: Gather Accessories

Include available:

• Chargers
• Power cords
• Footrests
• Cushions
• Trays
• Remotes
• Manuals
• Assembly instructions
• Replacement parts

Tell the organization if any original accessories are missing.

Step 5: Contact the Organization

Provide:

• Equipment type
• Brand
• Model number
• Approximate age
• Condition
• Dimensions
• Photographs, if requested
• Pickup location
• Information about missing or damaged parts

Wait for confirmation before delivering or shipping the equipment.

Can Someone Pick Up Donated Medical Equipment?

Some organizations offer pickup, especially for large items such as:

• Hospital beds
• Power wheelchairs
• Mobility scooters
• Patient lifts

Pickup availability may depend on:

• Distance
• Volunteer availability
• Equipment size
• Transportation capacity
• Current demand

Some organizations offer free pickup, while others may request a transportation fee or ask the donor to arrange delivery.

Ask whether the equipment must be moved to a garage, driveway, or ground-floor location before pickup.

Can You Donate Medical Equipment by Mail?

Small equipment and unopened supplies may sometimes be shipped to a donation organization.

However, shipping large medical equipment can be expensive. Do not mail an item before confirming:

• The organization accepts it
• The correct shipping address
• Packaging requirements
• Who pays shipping costs
• Whether advance approval is required

For heavy equipment, a local donation program may be more practical.

Is Donated Medical Equipment Tax-Deductible?

A medical equipment donation may qualify as a noncash charitable contribution if it is donated to a qualified organization and the taxpayer meets applicable federal tax requirements.

To claim a federal charitable contribution deduction, an individual generally must itemize deductions on Schedule A of Form 1040 rather than claim the standard deduction.

The deductible amount is generally based on the equipment’s fair market value at the time of the donation, not necessarily its original purchase price.

Fair market value generally means the price at which property would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller when neither is required to buy or sell and both have reasonable knowledge of the relevant facts.

The condition, age, features, remaining useful life, and market for comparable used equipment may affect its fair market value. A donation receipt may confirm that an organization received the equipment, but the donor is generally responsible for determining and supporting the value claimed on a tax return.

Official Source: Internal Revenue Service – Publication 561, Determining the Value of Donated Property

Keep records showing:

• The name and address of the organization
• The date and location of the donation
• A description of the medical equipment
• The equipment’s condition
• How the fair market value was determined
• The amount claimed as a deduction
• The equipment’s purchase price and purchase date, if available
• Any written acknowledgment or donation receipt

If the total deduction claimed for all noncash charitable contributions during the year is more than $500, the taxpayer generally must complete and attach Form 8283, Noncash Charitable Contributions, to the federal tax return.

For a deduction of more than $500 but not more than $5,000 for an item or group of similar items, the taxpayer generally completes Section A of Form 8283.

For a deduction of more than $5,000 for an item or group of similar items, additional requirements generally apply. These may include obtaining a qualified appraisal, completing Section B of Form 8283, and obtaining the qualified organization’s acknowledgment on the form.

Special rules and exceptions may apply depending on the type of property. Taxpayers considering a high-value medical equipment donation should review the current IRS instructions or consult a qualified tax professional before claiming the deduction.

Official Source: Internal Revenue Service – About Form 8283, Noncash Charitable Contributions

Official Source: Internal Revenue Service – Instructions for Form 8283

How Do You Know Whether an Organization Is Tax-Exempt?

If you plan to claim a federal charitable contribution deduction, confirm that the organization is eligible to receive tax-deductible donations.

The IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search tool allows users to review information about eligible tax-exempt organizations.

A donation to an individual generally does not qualify as a charitable contribution deduction, even when the person needs medical equipment.

Official Source: Internal Revenue Service – Tax Exempt Organization Search

What Should You Do If No Organization Accepts the Equipment?

If you cannot find a donation program, try contacting:

• Local medical equipment reuse programs
• Disability service organizations
• Senior centers
• Area Agencies on Aging
• Community centers
• Faith-based organizations
• Medical social workers
• Rehabilitation centers
• Local government recycling programs

For equipment with electronic components, ask about responsible recycling options if reuse is not possible.

Reusing working equipment may extend its useful life and keep valuable materials out of the waste stream. When donation is not practical, appropriate recycling may be a better option than placing electronic equipment in household trash.

Official Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Electronics Donation and Recycling

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Donating Medical Equipment

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Dropping off equipment without calling: The organization may not accept the item or may have limited storage.
• Donating unsafe equipment: Broken equipment may create safety risks and disposal costs.
• Leaving personal information attached: Remove patient, insurance, and prescription information.
• Assuming all medical supplies are accepted: Opened, expired, or damaged supplies may be refused.
• Shipping equipment without approval: The organization may not have space or resources to process it.
• Expecting every organization to offer pickup: Transportation services vary by location.
• Using the original purchase price as the donation value: Used equipment may have a lower fair market value.
• Discarding accessories: Chargers, manuals, footrests, and other parts may be necessary for reuse.

Conclusion:

Knowing where to donate medical equipment can help you find a safe and useful destination for equipment you no longer need.

Medical equipment reuse programs, lending closets, disability organizations, senior services, nonprofit groups, faith-based organizations, and some charitable resale programs may accept wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches, hospital beds, mobility devices, and other durable medical equipment.

To find local options, check your State Assistive Technology Program, search the Centers for Independent Living directory, contact an Area Agency on Aging through Eldercare Locator, or call your local 211 service.

Before donating, contact the organization, confirm that it accepts the item, describe its condition, and ask about drop-off or pickup requirements. Clean the equipment, remove personal information, and include available accessories.

If the equipment cannot be reused, contact an appropriate recycling or waste-management program rather than leaving it at an unapproved donation location.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)