TV Disposal Options: How to Get Rid of an Old Television in 2026

Old televisions are classified as e-waste in most states and can't go in your regular trash or recycling bin. They contain lead (CRT TVs), mercury (older LCD backlights), and other materials that require proper handling. The good news: there are more free TV disposal options than most people realize. Here's what they are and how to use them.

Why TVs Are Regulated Waste

CRT (cathode ray tube) televisions — the big, boxy ones that were standard until the mid-2000s — contain 4 to 8 pounds of lead in the glass. Flat-panel LCD TVs may contain mercury in their backlighting, and all electronics contain circuit boards with trace heavy metals.

25 states have e-waste laws that explicitly prohibit TVs in regular trash. Even in states without explicit bans, most landfills won't accept them. The practical result: you need a different disposal path, and it's easier than you think.

Free and Low-Cost TV Disposal Options

Manufacturer Take-Back Programs

Most major TV manufacturers are legally required in participating states to accept old TVs for recycling at no charge. Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio all participate in state e-waste programs. You can drop off your old TV at designated collection points — often retail stores — at no cost.

Find your nearest drop-off location through:

Earth911.com: Enter "television" and your zip code for local options
Your state's e-waste program website: Most states maintain lists of certified recyclers
Call2Recycle.org: For smaller electronics including remote controls and accessories

Retailer Drop-Off and Haul-Away

Best Buy is the most accessible option for most people. They accept TVs for recycling at all store locations — no purchase required. The fee structure:

TVs under 32 inches: Free drop-off
TVs 32 inches and larger: $29.99 fee (but you get a $30 Best Buy credit in return, essentially making it free if you shop there)
CRT TVs: Free to drop off at Best Buy regardless of size

When buying a new TV, Best Buy, Costco, and most retailers that deliver large TVs will haul away your old one as part of delivery.

Municipal E-Waste Drop-Off Events

Most counties run periodic e-waste collection events — typically one to four times per year — where you can drop off TVs, computers, phones, and other electronics for free. Check your county's solid waste or recycling department website. Some areas have permanent drop-off facilities that accept e-waste year-round.

Goodwill and Thrift Stores

Goodwill accepts working flat-panel TVs in most locations. Call ahead — policies vary by location and some stores are at capacity for TVs. Non-working TVs and CRT TVs are generally not accepted at Goodwill anymore.

Junk Removal Companies with E-Waste Handling

Many junk removal companies will take TVs as part of a larger cleanout. Pricing:

Single small TV (added to a load): $25–$50
Large flat-screen as standalone pickup: $50–$100
Multiple TVs (5+): Usually included in truck load pricing

Always ask whether the company is a certified e-waste recycler or partners with one. A company that simply dumps electronics in the landfill isn't solving the problem — and you could potentially share liability if it creates an environmental violation.

TV Type Matters for Disposal

CRT Televisions (Pre-2010)

The heavy, boxy TVs. Hardest to dispose of because of lead content. Very few thrift stores accept them. Best options: Best Buy free drop-off, municipal e-waste events, or certified e-waste recyclers. Don't leave them on the curb — in many areas this is an enforceable violation with fines.

Flat-Panel LCD and LED TVs

The most common type in use today. Easier to dispose of than CRTs. Best Buy, many thrift stores (if working), and e-waste events all handle them. Working flat-panels under 5 years old can sometimes be sold — a working 55-inch smart TV can still fetch $100–$300 on Marketplace.

Plasma TVs

Plasma TVs were common from roughly 2000–2013 and are heavy. They don't contain the same lead levels as CRTs but still have trace materials requiring proper recycling. Treat them the same as LCD — Best Buy, e-waste events, or certified recyclers.

Can You Sell an Old TV?

If the TV works, yes. Realistic price expectations on Facebook Marketplace in 2026:

CRT TV (any size): $0–$20 (mostly free listings that attract vintage gaming enthusiasts)
Working 32–43" flat-panel, 5–8 years old: $40–$100
Working 55"+ smart TV, under 5 years old: $100–$300
Non-working or damaged TVs: Very difficult to move — disposal is the better path

What to Do With Multiple TVs

Moving out? Estate cleanout? Multiple TVs are common in household purges. For 3 or more TVs:

Check if a local nonprofit, school, or community center needs working TVs — institutional donations can use several at once
Schedule a junk removal pickup — they can take multiple TVs in a single trip
Load them yourself for a single e-waste drop-off run

Bottom line: TV disposal is free or nearly free if you use Best Buy drop-off, a manufacturer take-back program, or a municipal e-waste event. For a working TV, list it on Marketplace before paying anyone anything. If you need a crew to haul multiple TVs, find e-waste-certified junk removal services at JunkRemovalMap.com.