Thinking about upgrading your phone and wondering how much Verizon will pay for your old device? You've come to the right place! Trading in your old phone can significantly reduce the cost of a new one, and Verizon offers a robust trade-in program that can be quite beneficial. However, the exact amount you'll receive depends on several factors. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from assessing your phone's value to maximizing your trade-in credit.
Ready to unlock the hidden value in your old phone? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understand How Verizon Determines Trade-In Value
Before you even think about packing up your phone, it's crucial to understand the criteria Verizon uses to assess its value. This isn't a one-size-fits-all process; several elements come into play.
1.1 Device Make and Model
This is perhaps the most significant factor. Newer, high-end smartphones from popular brands like Apple (iPhones), Samsung (Galaxy series), and Google (Pixel series) will generally fetch a much higher trade-in value than older, less popular, or budget-friendly models. For example, a recent iPhone Pro Max will be worth significantly more than an older Android basic phone.
1.2 Device Condition
The physical and functional condition of your phone plays a critical role. Verizon categorizes devices based on their condition, and this directly impacts the trade-in offer.
Good Condition: This typically means the phone powers on and stays on, has no cracks or damage to the front display, no liquid damage, and no internal moisture. It should be fully functional with all buttons working. This is where you'll get the highest value.
Damaged Condition: If your phone has a cracked screen, significant dents, or issues with buttons or ports, its value will be considerably reduced. However, Verizon often still accepts damaged devices, especially during promotional periods, though the credit will be lower.
Non-Functional: If the phone doesn't power on, has severe liquid damage, or is otherwise completely unusable, it will likely have little to no trade-in value, though Verizon may still offer to recycle it responsibly.
1.3 Storage Capacity
For many smartphones, especially iPhones and high-end Androids, the storage capacity (e.g., 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB) directly influences the trade-in value. Phones with larger storage capacities typically receive more credit.
1.4 Current Promotions and Offers
This is where you can really maximize your trade-in. Verizon frequently runs special promotions that offer significantly enhanced trade-in values, often tied to purchasing a new device on a specific unlimited plan. These promotions can turn a modest market value into a substantial credit, sometimes even making a new phone "free" after credits are applied. These deals often require:
New line activation or upgrade on an eligible unlimited plan.
Specific phone models to be traded in.
The trade-in device to be from a qualifying manufacturer (e.g., Apple, Samsung, Google, Motorola).
The trade-in device to have been active on your Verizon account for a certain period (e.g., 60 days) for existing customer upgrades.
Step 2: Get an Estimated Trade-In Value
Now that you understand the factors, it's time to get a concrete estimate. Verizon provides easy ways to do this.
2.1 Using Verizon's Online Trade-In Tool (Recommended)
The most convenient way to get an estimate is by using Verizon's dedicated trade-in website.
Visit the Verizon Trade-In Page: Go to
verizon.com/tradein Select Your Device: You'll be prompted to enter information about the device you want to trade in. This includes the make, model, and storage capacity.
Answer Condition Questions: You'll then be asked a few simple questions about the device's condition, such as:
"Does the device power on and stay on?"
"Is the front display cracked or damaged?"
"Is there any liquid damage or internal moisture?"
"Is 'Find My Phone' (or equivalent) disabled?"
Be honest with your answers, as the final appraisal will confirm the condition.
Get Your Estimate: Based on your input, Verizon will provide an estimated trade-in value. This value might be a direct credit amount or, more commonly during promotions, an "up to" amount that will be applied as bill credits over a specific period (e.g., 24 or 36 months) when combined with a new device purchase.
2.2 Visiting a Verizon Store
If you prefer an in-person assessment, you can always visit a Verizon retail store.
Bring Your Device: A store associate can visually inspect your phone and help you go through the trade-in process on the spot.
Instant Appraisal: In most cases, they can provide an instant appraisal and apply the credit immediately if you're purchasing a new device in-store. This can be particularly useful if you want to ensure your device qualifies for a promotional offer.
Step 3: Preparing Your Phone for Trade-In
Once you have your estimated value and are ready to proceed, proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth trade-in and protecting your personal data.
3.1 Back Up Your Data
This is a critical step! Before erasing anything, make sure all your important data—photos, videos, contacts, messages, apps, and documents—is backed up.
For iPhones: Use iCloud Backup (Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup) or connect to a computer and back up via Finder (macOS Catalina and later) or iTunes (Windows/older macOS).
For Android Phones: Use Google Drive (Settings > Google > Backup), your phone's built-in backup service (e.g., Samsung Cloud), or connect to a computer to transfer files manually.
3.2 Disable Security Features (Find My iPhone/Find My Device)
This is absolutely essential. If these features are not disabled, Verizon will not be able to process your trade-in, and your device will be returned to you.
For iPhones: Go to Settings > [your name] > Find My > Find My iPhone, and toggle it off. You'll need to enter your Apple ID password. Then, sign out of your Apple ID completely (Settings > [your name] > Sign Out).
For Android Phones: Go to Settings > Security (or Biometrics and security) > Find My Device, and ensure it's turned off. You should also remove your Google account from the device (Settings > Accounts > Google > Remove account).
3.3 Factory Reset Your Device
This will erase all personal data and settings, restoring your phone to its original factory state.
For iPhones: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. Follow the on-screen prompts.
For Android Phones: Go to Settings > System > Reset options (or General management > Reset) > Erase all data (factory reset). You might need to enter your PIN or pattern.
3.4 Remove SIM Card and Memory Cards
SIM Card: Make sure to remove your SIM card. You'll need this for your new phone or to keep your number active.
Memory Card (if applicable): If your Android phone has an external SD card, remove it.
Step 4: Completing the Trade-In Process
You've prepared your phone, now it's time to officially submit it for trade-in.
4.1 Online Trade-In Submission
If you initiated the trade-in online:
Receive Shipping Materials: Verizon will typically send you a prepaid shipping label and sometimes a special packaging kit via email or mail.
Package Your Device Securely: Follow the instructions carefully to package your device. Use adequate padding to prevent damage during transit. A damaged device received by Verizon will result in a lower or zero trade-in value.
Ship It Back: Take your securely packaged device to the designated carrier (usually UPS or USPS) as indicated on the shipping label. Keep the tracking number! This is your proof of shipment and allows you to monitor its progress.
Tracking Your Trade-In: You can often track the status of your trade-in submission on the Verizon website using your submission ID.
4.2 In-Store Trade-In
If you decided to complete the trade-in at a Verizon store:
Bring Prepared Device: Ensure your phone is backed up, security features are disabled, and it's factory reset.
Hand Over to Associate: The associate will conduct a final inspection and confirm the trade-in value.
Instant Credit (often): If the trade-in is part of a new purchase, the credit might be applied directly to your purchase or as an immediate account credit.
Step 5: Receiving Your Trade-In Credit
How and when you receive your trade-in credit depends on whether it's a promotional offer or a standard market value trade.
5.1 Standard Market Value Trade-In
Online: If you traded in online for a market value, you'll typically receive a Verizon e-Gift Card via email within 4-6 weeks or a one-time bill credit within 1-2 bill cycles after Verizon receives and processes your device.
In-Store: You may receive an instant credit towards your purchase or a one-time bill credit on your next statement.
5.2 Promotional Trade-In Credit
Recurring Bill Credits: The vast majority of high-value trade-in promotions are fulfilled through monthly bill credits applied over the term of your new device payment agreement (e.g., 24 or 36 months).
Example: If you get an "$800 off" promotion for a new phone, and your old phone's market value is $100, you'll typically receive $100 as an immediate credit (if in-store or as a one-time bill credit) and the remaining $700 as monthly credits over the device payment term.
Important: These credits are contingent on you maintaining the eligible plan and line for the entire duration. If you cancel service, pay off the device early, or change to an ineligible plan, the remaining promotional credits will stop, and you'll be responsible for the full remaining balance of the new device.
Timing: Promotional credits usually begin appearing on your bill within 1-2 billing cycles after Verizon receives and processes your trade-in.
Step 6: Maximizing Your Trade-In Value
Here are some pro tips to get the most out of your old phone:
6.1 Keep Your Phone in Pristine Condition
This is the easiest way to ensure a higher market value. Use a case and screen protector from day one!
6.2 Trade-In During Promotional Periods
Keep an eye on Verizon's deals page and promotional announcements. They frequently offer enhanced trade-in values for new device purchases, especially around new phone launches (e.g., new iPhones, Samsung Galaxies). These can significantly boost your credit.
6.3 Check Eligibility for "Any Condition" Offers
Occasionally, Verizon will run "trade in any phone, any condition" promotions, often for a guaranteed high trade-in value towards a new device. If your phone is damaged, these are the times to trade it in!
6.4 Understand the Commitment
For promotional trade-ins, be aware that the full credit is usually spread out over a long period. Make sure you're comfortable with the terms and commitment to your new plan and device payment agreement.
6.5 Don't Forget Accessories
While not directly part of the phone trade-in, remember to sell or recycle any old accessories (chargers, headphones) separately, as they don't contribute to the phone's trade-in value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check my phone's current estimated trade-in value with Verizon?
Go to
How to prepare my phone for a Verizon trade-in?
Back up all your data, disable "Find My iPhone" or "Find My Device," perform a factory reset to erase all personal information, and remove your SIM card and any memory cards.
How to send my trade-in phone to Verizon?
Verizon will provide a prepaid shipping label via email. Securely package your phone and drop it off at the designated carrier (usually UPS or USPS). Always keep your tracking number.
How long does it take to get my trade-in credit from Verizon?
For online standard trade-ins, expect an e-gift card within 4-6 weeks or a bill credit within 1-2 bill cycles. For promotional trade-ins, recurring bill credits typically start within 1-2 bill cycles after Verizon receives your device. In-store trade-ins often provide instant credit.
How to track my Verizon trade-in submission status?
You can track your trade-in by visiting the Trade-In Resource Center on Verizon's website and entering your submission ID.
How to know if my damaged phone will be accepted by Verizon for trade-in?
Verizon often accepts damaged devices, but the trade-in value will be lower. During specific promotions ("any condition" deals), even heavily damaged phones might qualify for significant credit. Always use the online trade-in tool to get an accurate estimate for your specific damaged device.
How to ensure I get the maximum trade-in value from Verizon?
Keep your phone in excellent condition, trade it in during strong promotional periods (especially around new phone launches), and always be honest about its condition when getting an estimate.
How will my Verizon trade-in credit be applied?
It's usually applied as monthly bill credits over your new device's payment agreement term for promotional trade-ins, or as a one-time bill credit or Verizon e-gift card for standard market value trades.
How to qualify for the highest trade-in promotions?
Highest promotions typically require you to purchase a new, eligible device on an eligible unlimited plan (often the highest tier plans) and trade in a qualifying phone from a major manufacturer (Apple, Samsung, Google, Motorola). Sometimes a new line activation is required.
How to avoid losing my Verizon trade-in credits?
To keep your promotional bill credits, you must maintain the eligible wireless plan and continue your device payment agreement for the full term (e.g., 24 or 36 months). Paying off the device early or changing to an ineligible plan will usually cause the remaining promotional credits to stop.