Staples Ink Cartridge Recycling (2026): Rewards, Limits & How It Works
Last updated: September 16, 2026 — by William Elward, Founder of Castle Ink
Staples is one of the most rewarding places in the US to recycle empty ink and toner cartridges: Easy Rewards members earn store rewards for every cartridge they drop off. This guide covers how the Staples ink recycling program works in 2026, the monthly limits, what the rest of the Staples recycling program takes (electronics, printers, batteries and shredding), and how to get the most out of a trip.
Quick answer
- Does Staples recycle ink cartridges? Yes. Staples takes empty inkjet and toner cartridges at the front counter of its US stores.
- What do you get? Easy Rewards members earn 500 points per cartridge recycled in store (about $2.50 in rewards).
- What are the limits? Up to 6 cartridges earn rewards, capped at 3,000 points per calendar month, or about $15 in savings.
- Online? No. Cartridge recycling rewards are in store only.
- Is it free? Yes. There's no fee to drop off ink or toner cartridges.
Staples Ink Cartridge Recycling at a Glance
| Detail | 2026 program |
|---|---|
| Rewards per cartridge | 500 Easy Rewards points (about $2.50) |
| Cartridges that earn rewards | Up to 6 per calendar month |
| Monthly rewards cap | 3,000 recycling points (about $15) |
| Where | In store only, at the register or print and marketing counter |
| Membership | Free Staples Easy Rewards account required to earn |
| Cartridge types | Inkjet and toner cartridges, any brand |
| Cost | Free |
Staples has changed these terms several times over the years, and it sometimes runs bonus offers on top of the base rewards. Check the current terms in the Staples app or your Easy Rewards account before you go.
How to Recycle Ink Cartridges at Staples, Step by Step
- Join Easy Rewards (free) in the Staples app or at staples.com, if you're not already a member. Without an account the cartridges are still recycled, but you earn nothing.
- Bag the empties. Put each cartridge in a sealed plastic bag, or its original packaging, so leftover ink or toner can't leak.
- Take them to the counter and tell the associate you're recycling cartridges. Give your Easy Rewards phone number or show the app.
- Check your account. Recycling points usually post after the visit. They don't appear on the receipt instantly.
- Redeem. Once issued, rewards can be used on your next Staples purchase, in store or online.
What Cartridges Does Staples Accept?
- Accepted: inkjet and laser toner cartridges from any brand, including HP, Canon, Epson and Brother, whether original or compatible. Remanufactured and refilled cartridges are generally accepted too.
- Check first: very large toner cartridges, drums, imaging units and fuser units. Many stores take them for recycling but may not count them toward rewards.
- Not accepted as cartridges: ink bottles (EcoTank, MegaTank, Canon G-series), ribbons and loose toner. Handle those through your local recycling or household-waste program.
The Full Staples Recycling Program: Electronics, Printers, Batteries and Shredding
People searching for the Staples recycling program often have more than cartridges to get rid of. Here's what Staples lists for its in-store recycling services:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ink and toner cartridges | Free | Earns Easy Rewards (see limits above) |
| Computers, laptops, tablets, phones, accessories | Free | Wipe your data first |
| Printers and multifunction devices | $9.99 each | Fee waived in CA, CT, IL, NC, NJ, NY, PA and RI |
| Monitors up to 49" | $29.99 each | Fee waived in CA, IL, MN, NY and VT |
| Batteries (rechargeable and single-use) | $2.99 per visit | Fee waived in CA, IL, MN, NY and VT |
| Document shredding | Priced per pound | Available at most stores |
Fees and accepted items vary by state and store. See Staples' recycling services page for the current list.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Staples Ink Recycling
- Spread large batches across months. Only 6 cartridges earn rewards each month, so bringing 20 at once earns the same as bringing 6.
- Watch for bonus offers. Staples periodically runs extra-points promotions for recycling or for buying ink. They show up in the app.
- Call ahead with big boxes. Some stores limit how many cartridges they'll take in one visit, especially bulky toner.
- Use the rewards, don't lose them. Easy Rewards expire, so check the dates in your account.
Staples vs. Other Places to Recycle Cartridges
Staples pays more per cartridge than any other major retail program, but it isn't the only option:
- Best Buy takes cartridges free with no membership, but pays nothing. See our Best Buy ink cartridge recycling guide.
- Office Depot and OfficeMax also give store rewards for cartridges. Compare the programs in our main guide, How and Where to Recycle Ink Cartridges.
- Manufacturer take-back programs from HP, Canon, Epson and Brother offer free prepaid mail-back for their own brands.
- Nearby drop-off spots: our list of free drop-off options near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Staples give you for recycling ink cartridges?
500 Easy Rewards points per cartridge, which is about $2.50, on up to 6 cartridges a month, for a maximum of about $15 a month.
Does Staples still give rewards for ink recycling in 2026?
Yes. As of September 2026, Staples lists 500 points per cartridge recycled in store, capped at 3,000 points per calendar month.
Can I recycle ink cartridges at Staples without an Easy Rewards account?
Yes. The store will still take them for recycling, but you won't earn rewards. Signing up is free.
Does Staples take toner cartridges?
Yes. Toner cartridges count the same as inkjet cartridges for recycling rewards.
Can I recycle cartridges at Staples online or by mail?
No. Staples' cartridge recycling rewards are in store only. For mail-back, use the manufacturer's take-back program.
Do I get cash for recycling cartridges at Staples?
No. You get store rewards, not cash. To sell empties for cash, see our guide to recycling ink cartridges for cash.
Can businesses recycle large quantities at Staples?
Businesses can drop cartridges off in store like anyone else, but rewards are still capped per month. High-volume businesses should ask about Staples business recycling programs or a manufacturer's bulk return program.
Spend Less on the Next Set of Cartridges
Recycling saves a few dollars. Switching to compatible cartridges saves far more. Castle Ink's compatible and remanufactured HP, Canon, Epson and Brother cartridges cost a fraction of OEM prices, and shipping is free on orders over $50. Not sure which cartridge you need? Find ink by printer.
Important Disclaimer
Staples program details, including rewards, limits, accepted items and fees, can change at any time and vary by state and store. Verify current details with Staples or your local store before visiting.
This page is an independent informational guide. Castle Ink is not affiliated with or endorsed by Staples. Staples' name and trademarks are referenced only to describe a widely recognized consumer recycling service.