If your Halloween costume was something special, unique, or expensive, and is still in good condition, you might consider selling it. This will allow you to retrieve some of the money that you spent on it so that you can put this amount towards this year's Halloween outfit.

Consignment stores

A consignment store is a bargain hunter's dream for Halloween costumes and other deals. You give the store the costume, and they do the work of finding someone to buy it. Once it sells, the store keeps a portion as their fee and you get the rest.

Online Auctions

For people who prefer to sell their costumes themselves, online auctions can be a smart option. You will have a much broader audience than your local store or garage sale. Always read the terms and conditions of the particular site before you submit an ad.

Garage sales/newspaper ads

Of course, if you want to sell your Halloween costume yourself, the traditional avenues of selling it at a garage sale or with an ad in the newspaper may also have results. Keep in mind that you will usually receive less money for the costume this way, though this method may be easier if you were already planning a sale.

Donate Your Halloween Costume

If your Halloween costume is still in good condition, you could consider donating it. There are several locations that would appreciate your donation. Here are some places that might be able to give your Halloween costume a new home.

Women's shelters

Many of the women staying in shelters have children with them. And when times are tough, extras like a Halloween costumes are not going to be in the budget. This is a special place to donate kids Halloween costumes to so that another child can have a chance to trick-or-treat. They may also receive adult costumes as well so that mom or older children can join in the holiday celebration.

Children Hospitals

Staying in a hospital long term is not much fun, so the staff at children's hospitals will usually look for ways to cheer their patients up. Dressing up for Halloween, or even a day of silliness, can make their patient's times more fun. Some hospitals will also encourage children to trick-or-treat around the rooms of the hospital on Halloween night.

Churches (some denominations)

Some churches will celebrate Halloween, or have a church friendly alternative where children can wear their costumes. Families in need may approach their church first for assistance before looking elsewhere. You will want to phone the church beforehand to make sure they would accept the donation, and use this for your family friendly costumes.

Charities

Many charities like Goodwill and the Salvation Army will welcome donated articles. In most cases, these organizations will sell your costume at their discount stores to help raise funds for the various programs that they run.

Hospice retailers Hospice services often run small stores to raise money for their staff members. These people often do a lot with very little, and they will take usually any type of donation that is in acceptable shape.

There is always someone out there that will be interested in your Halloween costume. Taking time to locate them can help you recover your money or make someone else's Halloween better.