If you’re like most people, you probably have an old phone, tablet, or other device collecting dust in a drawer. These unused electronics contribute to a growing global problem: electronic waste. E‑waste contains hazardous materials that can harm the environment and human health when not disposed of properly.

The good news is that recycling electronics is easier than ever, and it doesn’t have to cost a thing. Through Cell Phones For Soldiers (CPFS), we offer electronic recycling for free while also supporting veterans and active-duty military members. Every donation helps reduce harmful waste and funds programs that keep military families connected and provide essential support for veterans in need.

When electronics are dumped, burned, or handled improperly, they can release dangerous chemicals. According to WHO, e‑waste often contains toxic substances such as:

• Lead and mercury, which can contaminate soil and water
• Dioxins, which can pollute the air when devices are burned
• Other hazardous compounds that threaten ecosystems and human health

These toxins can cause serious harm, including respiratory problems, neurological damage, and higher risks of asthma and premature birth. Children and pregnant women are especially vulnerable. In many low- and middle-income countries, unsafe recycling practices like open burning or acid baths are still common, posing severe risks to both workers and communities.

The Global E‑Waste Monitor 2024 reports:

• 62 million tonnes of e‑waste were produced worldwide in 2022, an 82% increase since 2010
• Only 22.3% was properly recycled, leaving $62 billion worth of recoverable resources wasted
• By 2030, global e‑waste is expected to reach 82 million tonnes annually, the weight of 1.55 million 40‑ton trucks circling the Earth

Proper electronics recycling recovers valuable materials like gold, copper, silver, and rare earth elements. This reduces the need for environmentally damaging mining operations. Yet despite the potential, only 1% of global rare earth demand is currently met through recycling. Expanding responsible electronics recycling can help meet this demand while protecting our planet.

When deciding where to recycle electronics for free, it helps to know exactly what can be accepted. At CPFS, we make it simple by offering a nationwide program that accepts many common personal devices.

Accepted items include:

• Any and all cell phones and smartphones, working or broken
• iPads and tablets, working or broken
• MP3 players and iPods, working or broken
• Chargers for phones, tablets, or MP3 players
• Accessories such as cases in their original packaging

You can see the full, up‑to‑date list on our page explaining How It Works.

Not accepted:

• Laptops or desktop computers of any kind
• Cell phone or tablet accessories that are not in original packaging
• Televisions, monitors, printers, or other large electronics

By focusing on small personal electronics, we ensure safe handling, efficient processing, and maximum value for veterans and military families.

When you recycle electronics through Cell Phones For Soldiers, you are doing more than helping the planet. You are making a direct impact on the lives of active-duty service members, veterans, and their families.

Your donation helps fund programs that provide:

• Free phones and phone service for veterans in need
• Emergency financial aid through Helping Heroes Home
• Prepaid calling cards so deployed soldiers can connect with loved ones

Every device is either refurbished for resale through trusted partners or responsibly recycled for parts, ensuring that harmful materials are kept out of the environment. Proceeds from this process go directly toward programs serving those who have sacrificed for our country.

Our impact so far:

• 450M minutes of free talk time provided since 2004
• 25M cell phones recycled, reducing landfill waste
• 8M calling cards mailed to service members and women abroad
• 7,500 veterans and families assisted with emergency funding since 2012

Voices from those you help:

“Cell Phones for Soldiers really came through for me when I needed it most. Being on a fixed income, affording a good phone wasn’t easy, but they sent me a brand-new Samsung, fully set up and ready to go. I didn’t have to worry about anything-it just worked. This phone will help me stay connected and make life a little easier. I’m beyond grateful for their generosity and support!”

“Just being honest, this has been the best reply and response I’ve gotten in so long. I can’t thank you enough for your kindness, professionalism, and genuine concern. It means everything, especially as a US vet. It’s great to feel like a human.”

“Our office helped a veteran named Mr. Clark apply for your program. Last week he called to say he received his phone, and it was the first time in a while I heard excitement in his voice. Your work is deeply appreciated – keep up the good work!”

When you recycle with us, you’re not just disposing of old electronics; you’re helping create life-changing moments for those who’ve served.

We want you to feel confident when recycling your electronics. These clear, simple steps make it easy to prepare your device, protect your personal information, and ensure it’s ready for safe processing. Following them also keeps your donation in line with shipping and compliance requirements.

Save your important photos, contacts, and files before donating. This step ensures you have copies of everything you need. Your device will be securely erased during our processing.

• For iPhone 4 or newer: Go to Settings > [your name] > Find My and turn off Find My iPhone. Sign out of iCloud to fully remove the lock.
• For Android: Remove your Google account under Settings > Accounts to prevent activation lock. Doing this ensures your device can be reused or processed without issue.

Do a factory reset (search your device model + “factory reset” for instructions). If you can’t erase your device, don’t worry. We use Department of Defense standards for secure data erasure. Remove your SIM card before shipping.

Find donation shipping and packaging details here

We partner only with R2:2013 (Responsible Recycling) and NAID AAA-certified processors. With over 25 million devices recycled, we ensure your device is handled responsibly and your privacy is fully protected.

Your support can go even further. In addition to donating devices, you can help in other meaningful ways: 

• Become a CPFS drop-off location: Host a collection box at your business, school, or community center so others can easily donate their electronics.
• Volunteer or start a recycling drive: Organize a local event to collect devices and spread the word about CPFS programs.
• Donate online: If you don’t have devices to recycle, a financial contribution still helps provide free communication services to troops and veterans.

Don’t let your old phone or tablet sit forgotten in a drawer when it could change someone’s life. By recycling with CPFS, you’re doing more than keeping e‑waste out of landfills; you’re helping veterans, active‑duty service members, and their families stay connected during critical moments. 

Every device you donate supports programs that provide free phones and service, calling cards, and emergency aid to those who have served our country. It’s free, simple, and profoundly impactful. All it takes is a few minutes to gather your unused electronics, prepare them for donation, and drop them off or ship them to us. Your effort today could be the lifeline someone needs tomorrow. Let’s put your unused devices to work for a cause that truly matters!