How to Donate Used Jigsaw Puzzles

Donating used jigsaw puzzles to charity is one way to give them new life. Many large charities operate stores that resell donated items at a fraction of the price of what they cost new. Other charities give donated items to those in need. If the charity can provide you with a tax receipt, you can deduct the value of the donated jigsaw puzzles on your tax return, giving you a small financial benefit to go along with the positive feeling you'll get from helping the less fortunate.

Gather and clean the pieces of each puzzle and place them in size-appropriate boxes or bags -- one puzzle per box or bag. If you use bags, create labels that identify the puzzle and stick them to the appropriate bag. If you have the original boxes for the puzzles, use them.

Brainstorm a list of charities you'd consider approaching about the donation of the puzzles. Contact each charity or visit its website to find out its donation procedures. Ask about donation locations, hours of operation and types of donations accepted. Some charities will pick up donations.

Choose a charity you feel is most suitable. If you have multiple puzzles to donate, consider donating to more than on charity. Deliver the puzzles to the donation location or arrange for pickup. Request a receipt if you plan to claim the charitable donation on your taxes.