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Buying and selling used curriculum safely

What you may resell, what not to copy, and the scams to watch for.

You may resell a book you bought: the Copyright Act's first-sale rule, 17 U.S.C. 109, lets the owner of a lawfully made copy sell it. Do not sell copies you made. The CPSC says it is unsafe to sell recalled products, and the FTC warns that a buyer who overpays by check and asks for a refund is running a scam.

Checked October 29, 2026.

By Peabody editors.

Can I legally resell my used homeschool books?

Yes. Section 109(a) of the Copyright Act lets the owner of a lawfully made copy sell or otherwise dispose of that copy without the copyright owner's permission. That covers textbooks and workbooks you bought. It does not cover copies you made: don't sell photocopies, scans or downloads, and don't buy them. Digital licenses may have their own terms.

How do I buy used curriculum safely?

  • Buy from a seller you can check, with pictures of the actual books and a clear return rule.
  • Check the edition. A newer edition may not match the teacher's guide or tests.
  • Ask whether pages are written in, and whether the answer key is included.
  • Be wary of "digital copies" of whole programs for a few dollars; they are often unauthorized copies.
  • Pay with a method that has buyer protection, and don't pay by gift card or wire.

How do I sell used curriculum safely?

  • Describe condition honestly and list the edition.
  • Never share your home address publicly; ship from a post office or meet in a public place.
  • Refuse a check for more than the price. The FTC calls an overpayment with a request to refund the difference a scam; even when the funds show in your account, "that doesn't mean it's a good check".

What about used toys, games and kits?

The CPSC says its rules apply to anyone who sells consumer products, including individuals holding yard sales, and points resellers to its guide for screening hazardous products. Check anything meant for children against the CPSC's recalls before you sell or buy it.

Does Peabody run a marketplace?

No, and it never will. A sale between strangers brings scams, copied files and home addresses. Peabody Homeschool has no store, no ads and no affiliate links. To save money without buying, see free curricula, compared.

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