Two thermal pads bond the bottom of the SSD to the motherboard. Depending on their age and condition, it may take some force to separate the SSD from the pads.

Grip the SSD by its edges near the screw notch and lift to separate it from the thermal pads underneath—it should pop up at a slight angle.

Lift with gradual force. If the SSD detaches from the pads unexpectedly, you may pull up too hard and damage the socket.

If the SSD isn't budging, try using the flat end of a spudger to pry up the edge of the SSD with the screw notch.