Trading in your old iPhone with Verizon can be a fantastic way to save money on a new device, reduce electronic waste, and keep yourself updated with the latest technology. Whether you're an existing Verizon customer or looking to switch, their trade-in program offers various benefits. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and successful trade-in experience.
Unlocking Your Next iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide to Trading In with Verizon
So, you're ready to upgrade your iPhone and considering trading in your current one with Verizon? Excellent choice! Trading in can significantly reduce the cost of your new device and is a responsible way to dispose of old electronics. Let's dive into the detailed steps to make this process as easy as possible for you.
Step 1: Engage and Assess Your Current iPhone's Value
Before you do anything else, let's figure out what your current iPhone is worth! This is the most exciting part, as it directly impacts how much you'll save on your new device.
Sub-heading: Understanding the Trade-In Value
Verizon determines your iPhone's trade-in value based on several factors:
Model and Storage: Newer models and those with higher storage capacities generally yield a better value.
Condition: This is crucial. Is your screen cracked? Does it power on? Are there significant scuffs or dents? Verizon assesses the physical and functional condition. Devices in "Great" condition with minimal wear will get the highest value. Even devices with some damage (like a cracked screen) might still qualify, though for a reduced amount.
Promotional Offers: Verizon frequently runs special promotions that offer enhanced trade-in values, often making older or more damaged phones worth significantly more towards a new phone and specific plans. Always check for these!
Sub-heading: Getting an Estimate
You have a couple of convenient ways to get an estimated trade-in value:
Online via Verizon's Trade-in Page:
Visit the official Verizon Trade-in page (
verizon.com/tradein You'll be prompted to provide information about your device, such as its make, model, and condition. Be honest about the condition to avoid discrepancies later.
If you're already a Verizon customer, sign in to My Verizon for a quicker process, as it might pre-populate your device information and show you personalized offers.
Answer a few questions about your iPhone's functionality (does it power on, are there screen cracks, etc.).
Verizon will then provide an estimated trade-in value.
In-Store at a Verizon Company Store:
If you prefer a hands-on approach, visit a Verizon Company Store (note: authorized retailers may not accept trade-ins or offer the same programs).
A store representative will assess your device on the spot and give you an instant appraisal. This can be great for immediate clarity.
Step 2: Choose Your New iPhone and Trade-in Option
Once you have an idea of your current iPhone's worth, it's time for the fun part – picking out your new device!
Sub-heading: Selecting Your New iPhone
Browse Verizon's extensive selection of iPhones. Consider what features are important to you:
Latest Model vs. Previous Generation: Do you need the absolute newest iPhone, or would a slightly older model suit your needs and potentially be more affordable?
Storage Capacity: How much storage do you typically use?
Color and Features: Personalize your choice!
Sub-heading: Understanding Trade-in Payout Options
Verizon offers various ways to receive your trade-in credit:
Account Credit Applied Over Time (Promotional Value): This is common for promotional offers where you get a higher trade-in value. The credit is usually applied to your bill over a certain number of months (e.g., 24 or 36 months) as long as you maintain an eligible plan and line. This is often the most lucrative option if you qualify for a promotion.
Instant Credit (Market Value): If you're eligible for instant credit and not participating in a promotional offer, the trade-in value can be directly applied to the cost of your new device at the time of purchase. Any remaining credit might be applied as a one-time account credit.
Verizon Gift Card or PayPal Credit (Market Value): If you're not upgrading a device or not a Verizon customer, you might have the option to receive the trade-in value as a Verizon Gift Card or a PayPal credit. This is typically the market value of the device, not a promotional value.
Step 3: Prepare Your iPhone for Trade-In (Crucial Steps!)
This is a critical step to protect your personal data and ensure a smooth trade-in. Do NOT skip any of these steps.
Sub-heading: Backup Your iPhone's Data
iCloud Backup: The easiest method for most.
Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi.
Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
Toggle on "Backup This iPhone" and tap "Back Up Now." Ensure the backup completes.
Computer Backup (Mac or PC):
Mac (macOS Catalina or later): Connect your iPhone to your Mac, open Finder, select your iPhone in the sidebar, and click "Back Up Now." You can also choose to encrypt your backup for added security.
PC (iTunes): Connect your iPhone to your PC, open iTunes, click the iPhone icon, and select "Back Up Now."
Sub-heading: Unpair Apple Watch (if applicable)
If you have an Apple Watch paired with your iPhone, unpair it before proceeding. This ensures the watch is no longer linked to your device. Go to the Apple Watch app on your iPhone, tap "My Watch," then "All Watches," and tap the "i" next to your watch. Select "Unpair Apple Watch."
Sub-heading: Sign Out of iCloud, iTunes & App Store
This is extremely important to remove your personal accounts and disable Activation Lock.
iOS 10.3 or later: Go to Settings > [Your Name]. Scroll down and tap Sign Out. Enter your Apple ID password and tap "Turn Off."
iOS 10.2 or earlier: Go to Settings > iCloud > Sign Out. Then go to Settings > iTunes & App Store > Apple ID > Sign Out.
Sub-heading: Deregister iMessage (if switching to non-Apple phone)
If you're switching from an iPhone to a non-Apple phone, it's highly recommended to deregister iMessage. This prevents messages from being sent to your old iPhone via iMessage. You can do this on Apple's website or by removing your SIM card and waiting 24 hours.
Sub-heading: Erase All Content and Settings (Factory Reset)
This step completely wipes all your personal data from the iPhone.
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
You may be asked for your passcode or Apple ID password.
If your device uses eSIM, choose the option to erase your device and the eSIM profile.
Confirm by tapping "Erase [Device]".
Sub-heading: Remove SIM Card and Accessories
Remove your SIM card. You'll need this for your new phone or to keep as a spare.
Remove any screen protectors, cases, or other accessories. Do not send these with your trade-in.
Step 4: Send Your iPhone to Verizon
You have a few options for getting your old iPhone to Verizon.
Sub-heading: Shipping Your Device
If you initiated your trade-in online, Verizon will provide shipping instructions:
Shipping Kit: Verizon might send you a pre-paid shipping kit with a return label.
Print Your Own Label: You might be given a QR code to take to a UPS drop-off location, where they'll pack and ship it, or you'll print a return label to use with your own packaging.
Packaging: If you're using your own materials, pack your iPhone securely to prevent damage during transit. Only send one device per package.
Tracking: Keep the tracking number for your records! This is essential for monitoring your trade-in's journey.
Sub-heading: In-Store Drop-off
If you chose to drop off your device, ensure you go to a Verizon Company Store. No packaging is required, as they will handle it.
The store staff will verify your device's condition on the spot.
Sub-heading: Adhere to the Timeline
Verizon typically requires you to send your trade-in device within 30 days of receiving your new device. Check your confirmation email for the exact timeframe.
Step 5: Receive Your Trade-In Credit
Once Verizon receives and inspects your device, they will finalize the trade-in value and apply the credit.
Sub-heading: Appraisal and Confirmation
You'll receive an email confirmation that your trade-in has been received.
Verizon will then appraise the device based on the information you provided and its actual condition.
You'll get another email with the final appraised value. If the condition doesn't match your description, the value might be adjusted.
Sub-heading: Credit Application
Account Credit: If you qualified for a promotional trade-in, the credit will start appearing on your bill within 1-2 billing cycles and will be applied over the term of your agreement (e.g., 36 months).
Instant Credit/Gift Card/PayPal: If applicable, instant credit is applied at the time of purchase. Gift cards or PayPal credits typically arrive within 2 weeks of Verizon receiving and verifying your device.
Step 6: Track Your Trade-In Status
Stay informed throughout the process!
Verizon offers a Trade-In Tracker tool on their website.
You can also find a "View status" button in your trade-in confirmation email.
This allows you to monitor the shipment, appraisal, and payout status.
10 Related FAQ Questions: How to Trade In Your iPhone with Verizon
Here are some common questions to help you navigate the Verizon iPhone trade-in process:
How to find out my iPhone's estimated trade-in value with Verizon?
You can get an estimated value by visiting the Verizon Trade-in page online and answering a few questions about your iPhone's model and condition, or by visiting a Verizon Company Store for an on-the-spot appraisal.
How to prepare my iPhone for trade-in to protect my data?
Before trading in, you must back up your iPhone (to iCloud or computer), unpair any Apple Watch, sign out of iCloud and iTunes & App Store, and then perform a factory reset ("Erase All Content and Settings"). Finally, remove your SIM card.
How to ensure I get the maximum trade-in value for my iPhone?
To maximize your value, ensure your iPhone is in the best possible condition (no cracks, fully functional). Also, keep an eye out for Verizon's promotional trade-in offers, which often provide significantly higher credits.
How to know if my damaged iPhone is eligible for trade-in?
Verizon often accepts devices with damage, including cracked screens, but the trade-in value will be reduced. Some promotions even accept "any condition" devices, so always check the specific offer terms.
How to send my iPhone to Verizon for trade-in?
After initiating your trade-in online, Verizon will provide shipping instructions, which may include a prepaid shipping kit or a label to print. Alternatively, you can drop off your device at a Verizon Company Store.
How to track the status of my iPhone trade-in with Verizon?
You can track your trade-in status using the "Trade-In Tracker" tool on Verizon's website or by clicking the "View status" button in the confirmation email you received after initiating the trade-in.
How to receive my trade-in credit from Verizon?
Trade-in credit is typically applied as recurring bill credits over a set period (e.g., 36 months) for promotional offers, or as an instant credit towards a new device. Non-promotional trade-ins may also offer Verizon Gift Cards or PayPal credits.
How to know if I have to pay off my current iPhone before trading it in?
Generally, if your iPhone has an active device payment agreement with Verizon, it must be paid off before you can trade it in, unless a specific promotional offer explicitly states it accepts devices with remaining balances.
How to switch from iPhone to Android and still trade in my iPhone with Verizon?
Yes, you can trade in your iPhone even if you're switching to an Android device with Verizon. The process for preparing your iPhone remains the same, including deregistering iMessage.
How to get help if I have issues with my Verizon iPhone trade-in?
If you encounter any issues, you can contact Verizon customer support online, visit a Verizon Company Store, or utilize their online chat function for assistance with your trade-in.