Sell, Donate, or Recycle Diabetic Supplies After a Loved One Passes Away

Losing a loved one who managed diabetes is never easy. In the days and weeks that follow, families are often left with unused medical supplies, such as glucose test strips, insulin pens, syringes, and other devices. While these items once supported someone’s health, they now sit unused, raising questions about what to do next.

Whether you want to honor your loved one’s memory, help those in need, or reduce unnecessary waste, there are practical, responsible solutions. You can sell, donate, or recycle unused diabetic supplies—turning what’s left behind into real impact through charity, a local group, a support program, or a medical foundation. These supplies may enter a broader network of assistance, become part of a distribution or collection center, and directly contribute to donations that improve lives in vulnerable communities.

Determine What Supplies You Have

Start by gathering and reviewing all leftover items. Standard diabetes supplies you may find include:

• Glucose test strips (sealed and unexpired)
• Insulin pens or vials
• Lancets, needles, and syringes
• Insulin pumps and insulin pump supplies
• CGMs (like Dexcom) and sensors
• Meters, sensors, and test strip readers
• Packaged medical devices, unopened medications, and vials

Knowing what you have makes it easier to explore the best next steps—whether that’s selling, donating, or recycling the products. There are many ways to move forward, and understanding the reasons behind each option, such as supporting others through mail-based programs or giving at no charge, can guide your decision. While organizations like the American Diabetes Association (ADA) offer general guidance, alternatives to programs like Insulin for Life may better align with your specific goals. 

Understand the Difference You Can Make

Unused diabetes supplies should not be discarded in the trash or landfills. These materials can make a significant difference in the life of another person, especially in areas where access to resources is limited. With the proper instructions, precise details, and a practical solution, your unused supplies can be redirected to where they’re needed most.

Selling or donating supplies can:

• Support patients who can’t afford costly supplies
• Reduce harmful waste from discarded medical equipment
• Help clinics, hospitals, and outreach programs
• Offer support and relief to families in crisis
• Create a positive legacy in honor of your loved one

Even a few boxes of test strips or an unopened insulin pen can provide life-saving care to someone in need.

Sell Unused Diabetic Supplies Through a Trusted Service

For those looking to turn unused supplies into something helpful, selling them is a safe and legitimate option, especially if you’re working with a licensed and reputable company like More Cash for Test Strips.

We accept:

• Sealed, unexpired glucose test strips
• Insulin pens and vials
• CGM sensors, including Dexcom and similar models
• Lancets and other unopened medical items

Why sell with us?

• Fast payouts via check or digital transfer
• Simple shipping with prepaid labels
• Transparent pricing and clear guidelines
• Professional, secure handling of all packages

Selling is not only a practical option—it’s a meaningful way to give supplies a second life, create positive changes in the lives of other individuals, and receive compensation for their value. 

Follow Guidelines for Selling Diabetic Supplies

To ensure your sale is smooth and legitimate, follow these steps:

1. Inspect the supplies: Check expiration dates, packaging condition, and product types.
2. Separate eligible items: Most buyers only accept unopened, unexpired products.
3. Use safe packaging: Box up your supplies using bubble wrap or sturdy containers.
4. Label correctly: Include any necessary forms or identification information as needed.
5. Ship with care: Use prepaid shipping options or trackable services to ensure your package arrives safely and securely.

Selling diabetic supplies and other surplus medical equipment should always be handled through licensed platforms, rather than peer-to-peer resale sites, as these may violate guidelines.

Donate Supplies to Local Networks

If selling isn’t your choice, donating unused diabetes supplies is another way to make a meaningful contribution. Many local clinics, shelters, and charities accept specific types of medical items, particularly for uninsured or underinsured patients.

Common recipients of donated equipment:

• Free clinics and health programs
• Community outreach centers
• Children’s health organizations
• Disaster relief groups
• Hospital foundations

Before donating, always contact the organization directly to verify what they accept and under what conditions.

Recycle Medical Waste Responsibly

Not all items can be donated or sold. Some items—such as used syringes, opened medications, or expired vials—must be discarded through safe, legal channels.

Here’s how to dispose responsibly:

• Sharps (needles, lancets): Use an approved sharps container and drop off at a local clinic or pharmacy
• Expired insulin or medications: Check local medical waste disposal sites
• Electronic devices: Recycle old meters or CGMs at certified e-waste centers

Proper disposal protects sanitation workers, reduces waste, and prevents harm to the environment or community.

Organize Supplies for Easier Processing

Whether you’re selling, donating, or recycling, it’s helpful to organize everything clearly and efficiently. Use labels and boxes to sort by:

• Type (e.g., insulin pens, test strips, lancets)
• Brand (e.g., Dexcom, Medtronic)
• Condition (sealed, new, or opened)
• Expiration date

This organization helps recipients—or buyers—quickly evaluate and process the supplies, saving time and improving efficiency.

Support Communities With Surplus Supplies

Your unused diabetes supplies can support real people who are managing chronic illness without insurance or reliable care. Many patients in the U.S. and around the world go without necessities like test strips or insulin due to cost or limited access.

Your supplies may go toward:

• Children whose families can’t afford CGMs
• Elderly patients who fall through insurance gaps
• Disaster victims needing medical equipment
• Remote clinics need consistent materials for care

Donating or selling supplies through the right programs can offer critical assistance and real relief.

Make Informed Decisions With the Right Information

Before taking action, educate yourself about the laws, regulations, and logistics involved in handling surplus medical items. Important things to consider include:

• State regulations around reselling or donating prescription products
• Acceptable expiration dates and conditions for resale
• Proper storage guidelines (e.g., insulin must be kept refrigerated)
• Shipping restrictions for medical goods
• Required documentation for large donation packages

Our team at More Cash for Test Strips can guide you through these steps and provide the right resources for a smooth experience.

Honor a Loved One Through Action

Selling or donating unused diabetes supplies is more than just a practical step—it’s a powerful way to honor the memory of someone you cared for. Instead of letting those items collect dust or end up in the trash, you’re transforming them into meaningful tools of support, aid, and hope.

This choice reflects:

• Generosity in giving back
• Responsibility in reducing waste
• Compassion for the diabetes community
• A lasting impact on real lives

Even in the midst of grief, you can make a positive difference.

Take the First Step Today

If you’re ready to sell unused test strips, insulin, or related supplies, More Cash for Test Strips is here to help.

• We offer fast payouts
• We provide prepaid shipping
• We accept a wide variety of supplies
• We guide you through every step

Whether you’re selling, donating, or recycling, your effort matters; you’re not just clearing space—you’re contributing to the health and well-being of others who need it most.

Start your submission today. Let’s turn surplus into support—together.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I sell or donate supplies if they’re close to expiring?

Most buyers and donation programs only accept supplies with at least 6 months of shelf life remaining. If items are close to their expiration date, recycling may be the safer option.

2. What brands of test strips and CGMs are eligible for resale?

We accept popular brands such as Accu-Chek, Freestyle Lite, Contour Next, and Dexcom sensors, provided they are sealed, unexpired, and properly stored.

3. Can I sell insulin that has been refrigerated but unused?

We do not accept insulin due to legal and safety restrictions. Insulin should be donated directly through medical facilities or properly disposed of according to local regulations and guidelines.

4. What if I don’t have the original receipt or prescription?

No receipt or prescription is required to sell test strips and CGMs through our service. Just ensure the supplies are sealed, unexpired, and in good condition.

5. How do I know if my supplies are eligible for resale?

Check for the following:

• Unopened boxes or sealed containers
• Visible expiration dates
• No damage to packaging
• Recognized and approved brands

If you’re unsure, please don’t hesitate to contact our team with photos or details.

6. Are there legal issues with selling diabetic supplies?

Selling non-prescription, over-the-counter supplies, such as test strips, is legal in most U.S. states. However, prescription items (e.g., insulin) have strict limitations. Always check state laws or speak with a licensed platform like ours.

7. Can I sell supplies on behalf of a friend or family member?

Yes, as long as you have possession of the items and they meet the condition and eligibility standards, you can submit a sale even if the supplies belonged to someone else.

8. How long does it take to receive payment after sending my supplies?

Most payments are processed within 1–3 business days of receiving and verifying your shipment. We offer multiple payout methods, including check and electronic transfer.

9. Can I send supplies if I live outside the United States?

Currently, we only accept shipments from within the U.S. due to legal and logistical restrictions on importing medical supplies. If you’re located outside the country, we recommend contacting a local clinic or donation center for guidance.

10. How can I ensure my supplies are adequately stored before shipping?

Store supplies in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Do not refrigerate unless specifically required (like insulin), and never send damaged or opened packages.