Moving to a new place or redecorating your home? Sometimes your old sofa, dining table, or bookshelf just doesn’t fit your new space. Instead of throwing it away or paying someone to take it, why not donate it?
Many charities across the United States will pick up your furniture for free. Donating your furniture helps families in need, keeps good items out of landfills, and makes your move easier.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll show you the best national and local charities that offer free furniture pickup, plus a few helpful tips before you donate.
Why Donate Furniture Instead of Throwing It Away?
Donating your old furniture is more than just getting rid of extra stuff. It’s a simple way to help others and protect the environment.
Here’s why donating is a great idea:
- It helps families in need: Many people can’t afford to buy new furniture. Your donation can make their home more comfortable.
- It’s good for the planet: Donating keeps furniture out of landfills, reducing waste.
- It saves you time: Most charities will pick up large furniture for free.
- You can get a tax deduction: Donations made to registered charities can reduce your taxable income.
Top National Charities That Pick Up Furniture for Free
Here are some well-known charities that operate in many parts of the U.S. and offer free furniture pickup services.
1. Goodwill
Goodwill is one of the most trusted and recognized charities in the country. Its mission is to help people find jobs and build skills.
Most Goodwill stores accept furniture donations and offer free pickup for large items. However, each Goodwill location operates independently, so it’s best to call your local store to confirm what they accept.
They usually accept:
- Sofas and chairs
- Dressers
- Tables
- Bed frames
Tip: Make sure your furniture is clean and in usable condition before scheduling a pickup.
2. The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is another popular choice for donations. It provides shelter, food, and support programs for people in need.
The organization offers free pickup for large items, including furniture and appliances. You can schedule a pickup online or by phone.
What they accept:
- Sofas
- Tables and chairs
- Mattresses (in good condition)
- Dressers
- Appliances
Before donating, check with your local Salvation Army to ensure they accept your item, as some locations have different rules.
3. Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Habitat for Humanity builds affordable homes for families and runs Habitat ReStores — thrift shops that sell donated furniture, home goods, and building materials.
All proceeds go toward building new homes for families in need.
Why it’s great:
- Many ReStores offer free furniture pickup.
- You can schedule online or by phone.
- They accept most household furniture.
Examples of what they accept:
- Sofas, tables, and chairs
- Bookcases
- Cabinets and bed frames
Your old furniture could help someone build a brand-new home!
4. AMVETS (American Veterans)
AMVETS helps veterans and their families by providing job programs, education, and support.
They offer free donation pickup in some states, such as:
- Maryland
- Virginia
- Delaware
- Texas (selected cities)
- Oklahoma (Tulsa area)
They accept small furniture, TVs, and other household items. Since pickup areas are limited, it’s best to check their website to see if your ZIP code is covered.
5. The Furniture Bank
The Furniture Bank helps families and individuals who are rebuilding their lives — such as those moving from shelters or escaping hardship.
They take gently used furniture and give it directly to people who need it.
Note: Some Furniture Bank locations may charge a small pickup fee to cover transportation costs.
They’re available in select U.S. states and parts of Canada, so check your nearest location before donating.
6. The Arc
The Arc supports people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Many local chapters accept furniture and household items and offer pickup services.
Because each chapter operates independently, call your local Arc office first to confirm they accept your items.
7. GreenDrop
GreenDrop works with several charities, such as the National Federation of the Blind and the American Red Cross.
They accept household goods and small furniture under 50 pounds.
What makes GreenDrop convenient:
- You can schedule a pickup online.
- If you’re not home, you can leave items outside, and they’ll collect them.
GreenDrop currently operates in states like New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia, as well as Ontario, Canada.
Regional and Local Charities That Offer Free Furniture Pickup
Many local charities and organizations also offer free pickup in major U.S. cities. Here are some examples:
City | Charity | Contact Info |
---|---|---|
New York City | Habitat for Humanity | Call 332-777-5060 or schedule online |
St. Vincent de Paul | Call 203-493-4021 | |
Los Angeles | Habitat for Humanity | Call 424-246-3637 |
St. Vincent de Paul | Call 800-974-3571 | |
Chicago | Chicago Furniture Bank | Call 321-752-0211 |
Habitat for Humanity | Call 312-563-0296 | |
Houston | Helping Hands Charity | Call 281-258-5247 |
Salvation Army | Call 1-800-728-7825 | |
Phoenix | St. Vincent de Paul | Call 602-254-3338 |
Philadelphia | Salvation Army | Schedule pickup online |
Habitat for Humanity | Schedule online | |
San Antonio | Salvation Army | Call 1-800-728-7825 |
Arms of Hope | Call 877-259-3744 | |
San Diego | Father Joe’s Villages | Call 619-446-2100 |
Veterans Thrift Store | Call 619-337-9244 |
Tax Benefits of Donating Furniture
Did you know that donating your old furniture can help reduce your taxes?
If you give your furniture to a qualified 501(c)(3) charity, you can claim a tax deduction for the fair market value of your donated items.
Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your items are in “good used condition or better.”
- Ask for a receipt from the charity.
- Keep a list of everything you donate.
- Use the Salvation Army’s Donation Value Guide to estimate the value.
For example, a dining room set might be valued between $150 and $900, depending on condition.
If you’re unsure, check the IRS website or talk to a tax professional before filing.
Tips for Donating Furniture
To make your donation smooth and stress-free, keep these tips in mind:
- Call first: Always confirm what your local charity accepts.
- Clean your items: Wipe down furniture and fix small issues like loose screws.
- Be honest about condition: Some charities won’t take items that are stained or broken.
- Plan early: Pickup schedules fill up fast, especially during moving season.
- Think local: Sometimes your neighbors or local schools may need the furniture more than a thrift store.
What If My Furniture Isn’t in Good Condition?
If your furniture is too worn out or broken to donate, you can still get rid of it responsibly.
Here are a few options:
1. 1-800-GOT-JUNK?
This company will pick up almost any furniture, no matter the condition. You can book online, and in many areas, they offer same-day pickup.
2. LoadUp
LoadUp picks up furniture, mattresses, appliances, and even cardboard. Prices are transparent — you’ll know the cost before they arrive.
3. College Hunks Hauling Junk
They’re known for moving services but also remove unwanted items. They have over 200 U.S. locations and provide free online estimates.
Expert Insight: Why Furniture Donations Matter
Experts say that affordable furniture can make a big difference for families in need. It helps them feel settled, comfortable, and proud of their homes.
Dr. Danielle Groton, a social work professor at Florida Atlantic University, explains that “furniture provides stability and dignity for families who have been through hard times. A donated sofa or table can make a house finally feel like a home.”
Mike Kerkorian, Chief Development Officer at Family Promise, adds, “When you give away furniture you no longer need, you’re not just cleaning your house — you’re helping someone start a new life.”
Conclusion
Donating furniture is one of the easiest ways to help others, protect the environment, and declutter your home.
Most charities make it simple — just call, schedule a pickup, and place your items outside. Whether you choose Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity, or The Salvation Army, your donation will bring comfort to another home.
So, before you throw out that couch or table, take a moment to think — someone else might truly need it.
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