TV (Flat Screen) Alternative ways to recycle Illegal in Garbage & Drains Donate or Sell if Usable Electronics Recycling Drop-Off Sell or Donate If the TV is still in working condition, consider donating it. To find local donation locations, check out the NYS Reuse Locator Map. Never Throw in the Trash Most LCD screens made before 2009 contain mercury, which makes these TVs hazardous waste. Newer flat screens may contain other hazardous materials, such as heavy metals and flame retardants. These chemicals can leach into the environment from a landfill, so make sure not to throw any TVs in the trash. Over 50 Inches? Call Ahead When recycling a flat-screen over 50 inches, call ahead and make sure the program will accept it as a drop-off item. Some programs need to pick up the item if it is over a certain size. Alternative Ways to Recycle Best Buy Recycling Program Best Buy will take back portable TVs and any flat panel TV (LCDs, Plasma or LED) for a $25 fee; up to two TVs are accepted from each household per day. If your flat panel TV is larger than 50 inches, you cannot drop it off, but they will pick it up free of charge if you have a new product delivered. Find a location here. Apple Store Gift Card Apple runs a reuse and recycling program for unwanted iPhones, iPads, Mac or PC computers and displays. Depending on the condition of your electronics, Apple can give you credit if they have monetary value. Find out more.