Surplus Property Toolkit for Nonprofits

The Department of Administrative Services Surplus Property Division is responsible for identifying, redistributing, and disposing of State of Georgia personal property (not real estate) to eligible non-profits and small businesses, state and local governments, and the public.

In addition to managing State surplus, DOAS Surplus Property Division is the State Agency for Surplus Property (SASP) for the U.S. General Services Administration and manages the requisition of property through the Federal Surplus Property Program. We are responsible for determining which Georgia nonprofits are eligible to participate in both State of Georgia and federal programs.

A primary goal is to redistribute this property within the community by offering it to Georgia-based organizations at a nominal, fixed cost. While State law requires a service charge for all donated property, nonprofits can obtain surplus property at a significantly reduced rate from what can be acquired on the open market. As a result, the Surplus Property program provides a very affordable way for nonprofits to equip or expand their operations, and use resources for other important business needs. Reusing surplus property rather than buying new also saves tax dollars by extending the life of property.

There are certain restrictions that apply to all property acquired such as the property must meet the organization’s mission and must be put into use within one year and used for a year. Learn more about us and our other programs on the Surplus Property Division page.

• IRS 501(c) ruling
• Articles of incorporation by-laws
• Detailed description of program/services offered
• Description of facilities: physical location, hours of operation, staff qualifications, and duties
• Number of individuals served annually

Review the Eligibility Matrix (above) and collect the documents listed for your organization's type in an electronic format (PDF is preferred) to upload into the online application system. The type of services provided will determine if your organization is eligible for state and federal programs, and what property the organization can receive.

When completing the application, be sure to attach all  required documents and answer all questions. Do not skip any fields, as missing information and documentation could delay the processing of your application.

A representative from the Surplus Property office will review the completed application and supporting documents. If the application is incomplete, we will contact the applicant via email, requesting the additional information that is needed.

Once the application is complete, a DOAS Specialist will arrange an in-person or virtual onsite visit. The application approval status will be confirmed after the site visit. If approved, the organization’s designated representative can register for the online donee orientation.

As with many government programs, there are certain rules and guidelines that must be followed. The orientation will review how to request property, restrictions, service charge calculations, payments and much more.

Depending on the eligibility determination, begin searching and saving on items the nonprofit needs. We also have Want Lists to request specific property in both programs to help you save time.