Have you recently upgraded your phone with Verizon, and now you're wondering what to do with your old device? Perhaps you're considering returning a newly purchased phone that didn't quite meet your expectations, or maybe you participated in a trade-in program. Whatever your situation, understanding Verizon's return policies and timelines is crucial to avoid unexpected charges or lost value. Let's dive deep into everything you need to know about returning your old phone to Verizon!
How Long Do I Have to Return My Old Phone to Verizon? A Comprehensive Guide
The answer to "how long do I have to return my old phone to Verizon" isn't a simple, single number, as it depends on the reason for your return. Verizon has different policies and timelines for general returns/exchanges, warranty replacements, and trade-ins. Let's break down each scenario:
Step 1: Identify Your Return Scenario
Before you do anything else, it's essential to pinpoint why you're returning your phone. Are you:
Returning a new device for a refund or exchange? (e.g., you bought a new phone and decided you don't like it or want a different model).
Returning a malfunctioning device under warranty? (e.g., your new phone isn't working correctly, and it's still within the warranty period).
Sending in an old device as part of a trade-in program? (e.g., you received a promotional credit for trading in your old phone when upgrading).
Once you've identified your scenario, proceed to the relevant step below.
Step 2: Understanding the Return Windows
This is where the timing truly comes into play. Verizon has specific windows for each type of return.
For General Returns and Exchanges (Buyer's Remorse)
The Golden Rule: 30 Days. For most mobile devices and accessories purchased directly from Verizon (online, via the My Verizon app, by phone, or at a Verizon store), you generally have 30 days from the date of purchase to return or exchange the merchandise.
Important Considerations:
Condition Matters: The device must be in like-new condition, accompanied by the original packaging, shipping carton, and your receipt.
Restocking Fee: A restocking fee of $50 typically applies to returns or exchanges of a mobile device (excluding Hawaii). There is no restocking fee for returned accessories.
Service Termination: Returning your merchandise does not automatically terminate your service. If you wish to cancel your service, you must contact Verizon Customer Service separately.
Authorized Retailers: If you purchased your device from a Verizon Authorized Retailer (like Best Buy, Target, etc.), you must return or exchange it at that specific location, and their return policy will apply. Make sure to check their individual policies!
For Warranty Replacements
Manufacturer's Warranty Period: If your device is malfunctioning due to a defect and is still under the manufacturer's warranty (typically one year from the purchase date), Verizon will generally facilitate a warranty replacement. This isn't a "return" in the traditional sense, but rather an exchange for a Certified Like-New Replacement device.
Key Point: The timeline for sending back your defective device will be communicated to you by Verizon when they process your warranty claim. It's usually a reasonable period to allow for the replacement to arrive and for you to transfer your data. Always follow their specific instructions provided with the replacement.
For Device Trade-Ins
The Trade-In Window: Generally 30 Days. If you're trading in an old phone as part of an upgrade or promotion, you typically have 30 days from the date you initiated the trade-in order or received your new device (whichever is applicable according to the specific trade-in terms) to send in your old device.
Critical Details for Trade-Ins:
Finality of Trade-Ins: Once you send in your trade-in device and Verizon receives and processes it, the trade-in is final. You generally cannot get your old device back, even if you change your mind later or cancel your service.
Condition and Eligibility: The value of your trade-in is based on the make, model, and condition of the device you described. If the device's actual condition upon inspection doesn't match your description, or if it's not eligible (e.g., damaged battery, not unlocked), your trade-in value may be adjusted or even denied.
Promotional vs. Market Value: If your trade-in was part of a promotional offer, the full promotional credit is often applied over a number of billing cycles (e.g., 36 months). If you cancel service or don't meet the promotion's terms, you may lose the promotional credit and only receive the market value of the device, or potentially be charged back for credits already applied.
No Restocking Fee (for trade-ins): Unlike general returns, trade-ins typically don't incur a restocking fee.
Step 3: Preparing Your Phone for Return or Trade-In
Regardless of the reason, properly preparing your device is paramount to a smooth return process and to protect your personal data.
A. Back Up Your Data
Don't Skip This! Before wiping your phone, ensure all your photos, videos, contacts, and other important data are backed up.
For iPhones: Use iCloud or iTunes.
For Android phones: Use Google Drive backup, your phone's built-in backup service (e.g., Samsung Cloud), or transfer files manually to a computer.
B. Disable Find My iPhone/Find My Device and Remove Accounts
Crucial Step! This is perhaps the most important step to ensure Verizon can accept your return or trade-in.
For iPhones: Go to Settings > your Apple ID (your name) > Find My > Find My iPhone, and toggle it off. You will need your Apple ID password. Then, sign out of your Apple ID entirely by going to Settings > your Apple ID (your name) and scrolling down to "Sign Out."
For Android phones: Go to Settings > Accounts (or Accounts and backup) > Google, and remove your Google account(s) from the device. Also, ensure "Find My Device" (sometimes found under Security or Biometrics and security settings) is turned off. The exact path may vary slightly by Android version and phone manufacturer.
C. Perform a Factory Reset (Wipe All Data)
This step completely erases all personal data from your device, restoring it to its original factory settings.
For iPhones: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
For Android phones: Go to Settings > System (or General management) > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset).
D. Remove SIM Card and Memory Card (if applicable)
Don't forget these! Your SIM card contains your phone number and carrier information, and a memory card (like a microSD card) stores personal files. Remove both before sending the phone back. Verizon will not return these to you.
E. Gather All Original Packaging and Accessories
For general returns and exchanges, you'll need to include the original box, charger, battery, instructions, and any other components that came with the device. For trade-ins, usually just the device itself is required, but it's always best to check the specific instructions provided by Verizon.
Step 4: Shipping or Dropping Off Your Device
Once your phone is prepared, it's time to send it back to Verizon. The method will depend on your return type and what options Verizon provided.
A. Online Return/Exchange (for 30-day returns)
Via My Verizon: The easiest way to initiate a return or exchange for a newly purchased device is through your My Verizon account.
Visit My Orders in My Verizon.
Find your order and click or tap Return or Exchange.
Select the product(s) to return and follow the prompts.
You'll typically be able to print a pre-paid shipping label.
Attach the label securely to a sturdy shipping box. Make sure to package the device and all accessories safely to prevent damage during transit.
Keep a copy of the shipping label and tracking number for your records!
B. In-Store Return/Exchange
If you purchased from a Verizon Corporate Store, you can usually return or exchange your device directly at any Verizon Corporate Store.
Ensure you have your receipt and the device in like-new condition with all original packaging.
Note: Authorized Retailers typically do not accept returns for devices purchased elsewhere or for warranty replacements/trade-ins unless explicitly stated by Verizon's trade-in process. Always confirm the type of store.
C. Trade-In Return Options
For trade-ins, Verizon usually offers a few methods:
Prepaid Shipping Kit: Verizon may send you a pre-paid shipping kit specifically for your trade-in. Follow the instructions precisely.
Print Your Own Label: You might be able to print a shipping label from your My Verizon account after initiating the trade-in.
UPS Store Drop-Off: In some cases, Verizon provides a QR code you can take to a UPS Store. They will scan the code, package your device, and ship it for you. This can be a convenient option.
Verizon Store Drop-Off: For some trade-ins, you may have the option to drop off your device at a Verizon Corporate Store. Check your specific trade-in instructions to see if this is available for your situation.
Always retain your shipping receipt and tracking number! This is your proof of shipment and invaluable if any issues arise.
Step 5: Tracking Your Return and Awaiting Confirmation
Once you've shipped or dropped off your device, actively track its journey. Most shipping labels will have a tracking number.
Verizon will typically send you email updates regarding the status of your return or trade-in.
For general returns, expect a refund to be processed within 1-2 billing cycles (for account credits) or up to 3 weeks (for credit card refunds). Cash/check refunds can take up to 7 weeks.
For trade-ins, credit may appear within 1-2 billing cycles or as a Verizon Gift Card within 2 weeks, depending on your chosen payout method and promotion.
FAQ: Your Quick Answers to "How To" Questions
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to returning your old phone to Verizon, with quick answers:
How to Check My Verizon Return Eligibility?
You can review Verizon's official return policy on their website or contact Verizon Customer Service. Generally, mobile devices are eligible for return or exchange within 30 days of purchase if in like-new condition.
How to Find My Order in My Verizon to Start a Return?
Log in to your My Verizon account, navigate to the "Orders" section, and locate the specific order for the device you wish to return. There should be an option to "Return" or "Exchange."
How to Prepare My iPhone for Return to Verizon?
First, back up your data to iCloud or your computer. Then, disable "Find My iPhone" and sign out of your Apple ID. Finally, perform a factory reset ("Erase All Content and Settings"). Remove your SIM card.
How to Prepare My Android Phone for Return to Verizon?
Back up your data to Google Drive or your computer. Disable "Find My Device" and remove all Google accounts. Then, perform a factory reset. Remember to remove your SIM card and any external memory cards.
How to Get a Shipping Label for My Verizon Return?
If you initiate an online return through My Verizon, you will typically be prompted to print a pre-paid shipping label directly from the website.
How to Avoid a Restocking Fee When Returning to Verizon?
Restocking fees of $50 generally apply to mobile device returns and exchanges (excluding Hawaii). Accessories typically do not have a restocking fee. There are no options to "avoid" this fee if your return falls under these terms.
How to Return a Verizon Device Purchased from an Authorized Retailer?
You must return the device to the specific authorized retailer (e.g., Best Buy, Target) where you purchased it. Their return policy will govern the process and timeline.
How to Track My Verizon Trade-In Status?
After initiating a trade-in, you should receive an email with instructions and a link to track your trade-in's status. You can also usually track it within your My Verizon account under the "Orders" or "Trade-in" section.
How to Ensure My Trade-In Value Isn't Reduced by Verizon?
To maximize your trade-in value, ensure your device is in the condition you described (e.g., no cracks, powers on), disable all security locks (Find My Device/iPhone), and perform a factory reset. Send it in within the specified timeframe.
How to Get My Old Phone Back After Trading It In to Verizon?
Generally, you cannot get your old phone back once it has been sent in and processed as a trade-in by Verizon. Trade-ins are considered final once accepted and processed.
