Ready to upgrade your tech and potentially save a bundle? Trading in your old phone to Verizon is a fantastic way to offset the cost of a new device or even get bill credits. It's a process that can seem a little daunting at first, but with this detailed, step-by-step guide, you'll navigate it like a pro. Let's dive in!
The Ultimate Guide: How to Trade In Your Phone to Verizon
So, you've got that old smartphone collecting dust, maybe a crack or two on the screen, or perhaps it's just feeling a bit sluggish. Why not turn that forgotten tech into real value for your next Verizon device? Trading in is not just about getting a discount; it's also an environmentally friendly way to dispose of your electronics. Verizon makes the process relatively straightforward, whether you prefer the convenience of online submission or the personal touch of an in-store visit.
Let's get started on unlocking that value!
Step 1: Assess Your Device & Your Goals – What's Your Phone Worth?
Before you do anything else, let's figure out what you're working with and what you hope to achieve. This initial assessment is crucial for a smooth trade-in experience.
Sub-heading: What's the Condition of Your Phone?
Verizon evaluates trade-in devices based on their make, model, and condition. Be honest with yourself here, as an accurate assessment will prevent surprises later.
"Great" Condition: The device powers on, holds a charge, has no cracks or significant damage to the screen or body, and all features work. Minor scuffs are usually okay.
"Very Good" Condition: Similar to "Great," but might have slightly more noticeable scratches or scuffs.
"Good" Condition: More substantial scratches, scuffs, or dents on the phone case, and minor scratches on the screen.
"Damaged" or "Not Working": This includes cracked screens, water damage, severe physical damage, or a device that simply won't turn on. Even damaged phones might have some trade-in value, especially during specific promotions.
Sub-heading: What Are You Hoping to Get Out Of It?
Are you looking for an immediate discount on a new phone, or would you prefer a Verizon Gift Card or account credit for future use? Your goal can influence how you proceed.
New Device Purchase: Often, the highest promotional trade-in values are tied to purchasing a new device on a device payment agreement. The trade-in value is typically applied as bill credits over the term of the agreement (e.g., 36 months).
Account Credit/Gift Card: If you're not ready to buy a new phone, you can still trade in your old one for a Verizon account credit or a virtual gift card, which can be used for almost anything Verizon sells, including accessories, future purchases, or even applied to your bill.
Sub-heading: Check for Special Promotions
Verizon frequently runs promotions that offer enhanced trade-in values, sometimes even for devices in "any condition." It's absolutely worth checking their "Deals" or "Promotions" section on their website before starting the process. These deals can significantly increase your trade-in benefit.
Step 2: Get an Estimated Trade-In Value – Online or In-Store
Now that you have a clear picture of your device's condition and your goals, it's time to find out its estimated value.
Sub-heading: Using Verizon's Online Trade-in Tool (Recommended for Most)
This is often the quickest and most convenient way to get an initial estimate.
Visit the Verizon Trade-in Page: Go to Verizon's official website and search for "trade-in" or navigate directly to their trade-in program page.
Enter Device Information: You'll be prompted to provide details about your phone, such as:
Make and Model: Select your phone's brand (e.g., Apple, Samsung, Google, Motorola) and then the specific model.
Storage Capacity: Choose the correct storage size (e.g., 64GB, 128GB, 256GB).
Condition Questions: Answer a series of questions truthfully about your device's condition (does it power on, are there screen cracks, is the battery damaged, etc.).
IMEI/Device ID: You may be asked to enter your device's IMEI number. You can usually find this by dialing *#06# on your phone, in the phone's settings (About Phone), or on the SIM tray.
Receive Your Estimate: Based on your input, Verizon will provide an estimated trade-in value. If there's a current promotion you qualify for, it will usually show both the market value and any additional promotional value.
Sub-heading: Visiting a Verizon Corporate Store
If you prefer a face-to-face interaction or want an instant appraisal, a Verizon corporate store is a good option.
Locate a Verizon Company Store: Use Verizon's store locator and filter for "Verizon Company Store," as authorized retailers do not always accept trade-ins directly or offer the same immediate appraisal benefits.
Bring Your Device: Take your phone to the store. A sales associate will visually inspect your device and ask you a few questions about its functionality.
Instant Appraisal: They will provide you with an on-the-spot appraisal and discuss your options for applying the credit. This can be great for peace of mind, as the condition is verified in front of you.
Step 3: Prepare Your Phone for Trade-In – The Critical Steps!
This step is non-negotiable for your privacy and to ensure a successful trade-in. Do NOT skip these vital preparations.
Sub-heading: Back Up Your Data
This is paramount! Once you trade in your phone, all data on it will be wiped and cannot be recovered.
Cloud Backup: For iPhones, use iCloud. For Android phones, use Google Drive or your device manufacturer's cloud service (e.g., Samsung Cloud).
Computer Backup: You can also back up photos, videos, and other files to a computer or an external hard drive.
Sub-heading: Disable Find My Device/Activation Lock
This is one of the most common reasons for trade-in rejections. Verizon needs to be able to activate the device.
For iPhones (iOS): Go to Settings > Your Name (Apple ID) > Find My > Find My iPhone, and turn it off. You may need to enter your Apple ID password.
For Android Phones: The steps vary slightly by manufacturer, but generally go to Settings > Security & Location (or Biometrics and Security) > Find My Device, and turn it off. Also, remove your Google account(s) from the device.
Sub-heading: Factory Reset Your Phone
This securely wipes all your personal data from the device.
For iPhones (iOS): Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. You'll need to enter your passcode and Apple ID password.
For Android Phones: Go to Settings > System (or General Management) > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset). You may need to enter your PIN or pattern.
Sub-heading: Remove SIM Card and SD Card
SIM Card: Make sure to remove your SIM card. You'll need this for your new phone or to keep your current line active if you're not upgrading immediately.
SD Card (if applicable): If your phone has an external SD card slot, remove it. Verizon will not return these.
Sub-heading: Remove Accessories
Do NOT send chargers, cables, cases, or other accessories with your trade-in. These items have no trade-in value and will not be returned to you. Only send the device itself with its battery in place.
Step 4: Complete the Trade-In Process – Online or In-Store
Now that your phone is prepped, it's time to officially submit your trade-in.
Sub-heading: Online Trade-In (Shipping Your Device)
If you chose the online route, follow these instructions carefully:
Confirm Your Trade-in Order: After getting your estimate, if you're happy with it, proceed to confirm your trade-in order. This will often be tied to a new device purchase or applied as an account credit.
Receive Shipping Instructions: Verizon will provide you with a prepaid shipping label and instructions. This might come via email or as part of your online order confirmation.
Packaging Your Device:
Option 1: UPS Store Drop-off with QR Code: Verizon often provides a UPS QR code. You can take your unpackaged device to a UPS drop-off location, and they will pack and ship it for you. This is often the easiest option.
Option 2: Use Your Own Packaging: If you receive a label but no kit, securely pack your phone in a sturdy box with adequate padding to prevent damage during transit. Only send one device per package.
Option 3: Shipping Kit: In some cases, Verizon might send you a pre-paid shipping kit.
Ship Your Device: Drop off your packaged phone at the designated carrier location (usually UPS). Keep your tracking number!
Sub-heading: In-Store Trade-In (Immediate Turn-in)
If you opted for the in-store appraisal, the process is even more streamlined:
Verification: The Verizon associate will verify the condition of your device against your prior assessment.
Complete Paperwork: You'll fill out any necessary documentation.
Hand Over Your Phone: Once everything is confirmed, you hand over your old device.
Receive Immediate Credit (for eligible promotions): For many in-store trade-ins, you can receive an instant appraisal and the credit applied immediately towards your new purchase or bill. This is a significant advantage of in-store trade-ins.
Step 5: Track Your Trade-In & Receive Your Credit
The process isn't over until you've received your credit!
Sub-heading: Tracking Your Shipment (Online Trade-in)
Use the tracking number provided by Verizon or the shipping carrier (UPS) to monitor your device's journey to Verizon's processing center.
Sub-heading: Device Inspection and Final Appraisal
Once Verizon receives your device, it will undergo a final inspection to confirm its condition matches your description.
If the condition differs, Verizon may adjust the final appraised value. They will typically notify you if there's a significant change.
Sub-heading: Receiving Your Credit
The timeline and method of receiving your credit depend on how you set up your trade-in:
Account Credit (for new device purchases): If your trade-in is part of a promotion for a new device payment plan, the promotional credit is usually applied to your Verizon account as recurring bill credits over 1-2 billing cycles (e.g., 36 months). The market value of the phone is typically part of this overall promotional credit.
Account Credit (general): If you opted for general account credit, it typically appears within 1-2 billing cycles after Verizon receives and appraises your device.
Verizon Gift Card: If you chose a Verizon Gift Card, it's usually sent to your email address within about 2 weeks from the time Verizon receives your device and you accept the agreements.
Important Considerations:
Payment Agreements: If your device has an active device payment agreement balance, it generally must be paid off before you can trade it in, unless you qualify for a specific promotional offer that allows for a remaining balance. Always check the terms of the promotion.
Promotional Credit Reversal: Be aware that if your trade-in credit is tied to a promotional offer (e.g., requiring you to maintain a certain plan or stay on a device payment agreement), the promotional credits may be reversed if you no longer meet the eligibility requirements (e.g., canceling service, paying off your device early). You will, however, still receive the market value of your device.
Lost/Stolen Devices: Verizon will not accept devices reported as lost or stolen.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to successfully trading in your phone to Verizon and enjoying the benefits!
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
Here are some quick answers to common questions about trading in your phone to Verizon:
How to Check My Phone's Eligibility for Trade-In? You can check eligibility by visiting the Verizon Trade-in page on their website and entering your device's make, model, and condition. The tool will give you an estimated value and indicate if it qualifies for current promotions.
How to Find My Phone's IMEI Number? Dial *#06# on your phone's dialer, look in your phone's Settings (usually under "About Phone" or "Status"), or find it printed on the SIM tray or original device packaging.
How to Back Up My Data Before Trading In? For iPhones, use iCloud or iTunes/Finder. For Android, use Google Drive backup, your phone's manufacturer-specific cloud service, or transfer files to a computer.
How to Factory Reset My Phone for Trade-In? For iPhones, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. For Android, go to Settings > System (or General Management) > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset). Ensure you've disabled any activation locks first.
How to Disable Find My iPhone/Android Before Trade-In? For iPhones, go to Settings > Your Name (Apple ID) > Find My > Find My iPhone and turn it off. For Android, remove your Google account(s) and disable "Find My Device" in security settings.
How to Ship My Trade-In Phone to Verizon? Verizon typically provides a prepaid shipping label or a UPS QR code. With the QR code, UPS can pack and ship it for you. Otherwise, securely pack your wiped device in a sturdy box and use the provided label to mail it.
How to Track My Verizon Trade-In Status? You can track your trade-in through the My Verizon app or by logging into your My Verizon account online under the "Orders" or "Trade-in Tracker" section.
How to Know If My Damaged Phone Has Trade-In Value? Even damaged phones (like those with cracked screens) can have trade-in value, especially during specific "any condition" promotions. Use Verizon's online trade-in tool to get an estimate based on its actual condition.
How to Get My Trade-In Credit Applied to My Bill? If your trade-in is part of a promotional offer with a new device purchase, the credit is usually applied as recurring bill credits over the device payment agreement term (e.g., 36 months). If you opted for general account credit, it will appear on your bill within 1-2 cycles.
How to Contact Verizon Support for Trade-In Questions? You can contact Verizon customer service by phone, through their online chat support, or by visiting a Verizon corporate store for assistance with any trade-in related questions.