For years now, people have been able to return their cell phones, ink cartridges and other personal and office electronics for recycling. Now, you can send in your old laptop for refurbishing and re-use, which helps reduce carbon emissions and can help you too.

Beyond the "green" benefits of sending in your old laptop, unlike many other electronics, you can actually get cash for this process. Used laptops are valuable for the companies that can refurbish them and sell them as used so they are willing to pay you for it, and typically take care of the shipping as well.

Many people have old laptops that they would like to replace for a newer one with better technology. Technology is always coming up with better laptops with cool, new features. By selling your old laptop for cash, you can make money from the used laptop value to help finance a new one.

This is also a great deal for people who have already replaced their laptop and have an old one lying around. Non working electronics like old, broken laptops often end up in landfills and contribute to e-waste. This e-waste is becoming a huge problem leading to water and soil contamination.

By selling your laptop you can get rid of your old laptop (whether it's working or not) and feel good that it is going to be used again instead of ending up in a landfill.

Once you decide to sell your used laptop for cash, the company that buys it from you will typically pay you for shipping to get it to them and then send you a check once it is received. There are several different companies that offer this service, so make sure you check out their website and that they do pay for shipping.

Also, find out when they will send you the check for your laptop so you know when to expect it. Some companies can even give you an instant quote online so you can find out how much your used laptop may be worth before you even contact them.

Even more importantly, make sure the company has a policy about erasing the information from your hard drive once it is received. All reputable companies will do this as soon as they get it so you don't have to worry about your personal information being exposed.

Who knew that getting rid of your old laptop could be profitable and environmentally responsible!