: Instead of cash, donors typically receive a receipt for tax deduction purposes.

The question of whether thrift stores buy clothes from individuals is a common source of confusion, largely because the terms "thrift store," "consale shop," and "resale boutique" are often used interchangeably despite having distinct business models. The Traditional Thrift Store Model

: Inventory is acquired for free from community members.

: Proceeds from sales are generally used to fund charitable missions, such as job training or community programs. Resale and Buy-Sell-Trade Shops

In the strictest sense, traditional thrift stores do buy clothes from the public. Large-scale operations—particularly non-profits like Goodwill and the Salvation Army —rely almost exclusively on tax-deductible donations.

If you are looking for immediate payment, you are likely looking for a or a buy-sell-trade boutique rather than a traditional thrift store. What Is a Thrift Store? | Goodwill Middle TN