> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://handbook.mattermost.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://handbook.mattermost.com/operations/workplace/it/hardware-buy-back-policy.md).

# Hardware buy back policy

Mattermost provides staff members with the opportunity to retain or purchase their company-issued hardware (laptops, desktops, phones, tablets, etc.) during a scheduled refresh or upon offboarding.![image](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/8870b5ab-2af3-46f3-8c21-84615e0577a2)

## Eligibility & Pricing

Hardware value is determined by the length of the staff member's tenure at the time of the request: • Tenure of 1+ Year: Staff members offboarding after at least 1 full calendar year of service (and receipt of new equipment) may keep their primary device at no cost. • Tenure of Less Than 1 Year: Staff members offboarding prior to one year of service, or those receiving an early hardware refresh, may purchase their device at current market value. ![image](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/72924788-3d41-4dc7-81ef-34aec4c6e580)

## Refresh Cycles

Hardware is typically eligible for a refresh every three years from the date of the hardware's purchase, regardless of the staff member's start date. For guidance on purchasing new equipment, please consult the How to Spend Company Money policy.![image](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/a56ac4c9-a56b-4f24-b869-009f14ef6666)

## Purchase Process

If a buyout is requested:

1. Valuation: IT will email the staff member with the determined market value of the device.
2. Confirmation: If the staff member elects to proceed, the Accounting Department will provide payment instructions.
3. Completion: Ownership is officially transferred once payment is confirmed. ![image](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/acde4e92-680d-46dd-835c-172963c9a98d)

## Security & Compliance Requirements

To ensure data security, staff members who retain their hardware must: • Sanitize the Device: Completely wipe the device and reinstall a base operating system. • Remove Mattermost Data: Delete all company-supplied software, configurations, and proprietary data. • Attestation: Sign a compliance document acknowledging that no confidential Mattermost software or data has been retained. ![image](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/cb6a0662-3b02-4eea-8578-42129b207057)

**If staff members opt not to keep or purchase their existing hardware, they will need to return them to Mattermost.**