Thinking about upgrading your phone and wondering if your old device can help you save some cash? Verizon's trade-in program is a fantastic way to do just that! It allows you to get credit for your used smartphones, tablets, and even smartwatches, which you can then apply towards a new device, accessories, or even your monthly bill. This guide will walk you through every step of processing a trade-in with Verizon, making the process smooth and easy.
How to Process a Trade-In with Verizon: Your Comprehensive Guide
Are you ready to unlock the value of your old device and get closer to that new gadget you've been eyeing? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Determine Your Device's Eligibility and Estimated Value
Before you do anything else, the first and most exciting step is to find out what your current device is actually worth! This is where the magic begins, as you start to see how much credit you could potentially receive.
Sub-heading: Check Basic Eligibility
What can you trade in? Verizon accepts a wide range of devices, including:
Smartphones (Apple, Android, etc.)
Tablets
Smartwatches
Basic phones
Mobile hotspot devices
Netbooks
Certain prepaid phones (3G active for 6+ months, 4G activated with at least one month's payment made).
What can't you trade in? Devices like Vehicle Diagnostics, Delphi Connect, or Samsung Galaxy Camera® are generally not accepted.
Is your device paid off? This is a crucial point. If your device has an active device payment agreement balance on your Verizon bill, it generally must be paid off before you can trade it in, unless a specific promotional offer allows for a remaining balance. Check the terms of any current promotions carefully.
Sub-heading: Get an Estimated Trade-In Value
Verizon makes it very easy to get an initial estimate for your device.
Visit the Verizon Trade-In Page: Go to the official Verizon website and navigate to their Device Trade-In page (you can usually find this by searching "Verizon trade-in" or looking under "Shop" or "Deals").
Provide Device Details: You'll be prompted to enter information about your device, such as:
Make (e.g., Apple, Samsung, Google)
Model (e.g., iPhone 14 Pro Max, Galaxy S23 Ultra, Pixel 8)
Storage capacity
Carrier (if applicable)
Condition: This is critical for an accurate estimate. Be honest about the condition of your device. Common condition categories include:
Great/Excellent: Minimal to no scratches, powers on, all functions work, no cracks.
Good: Light scratches or scuffs, powers on, all functions work, no cracks.
Fair: More substantial scratches/scuffs/dents, minor screen scratches, powers on, functions work, no major damage.
Damaged: Cracked screen (front or back), water damage, battery damage (swelling, leaking, hot to touch), or not powering on. Even damaged devices might have some trade-in value, especially during specific promotions, but it will be significantly lower.
Receive Your Estimate: Based on the information you provide, Verizon will give you an estimated trade-in value. This can be a straight market value or a promotional value (often higher) if you're upgrading or adding a new line under a specific deal.
Keep in mind: This is an estimate. The final value is confirmed after Verizon receives and inspects your device.
Step 2: Prepare Your Device for Trade-In
This is a critical step to protect your personal data and ensure a smooth trade-in process. Do not skip any of these sub-steps!
Sub-heading: Back Up Your Data
Why it's important: Your device holds a wealth of personal information: photos, contacts, messages, apps, documents, and more. Backing it up ensures you don't lose anything important before wiping the device.
How to do it:
For iPhones: Use iCloud (Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now) or connect to a computer and use Finder (macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes (Windows or older macOS).
For Android phones: Use Google Drive (Settings > Google > Backup), your phone's built-in backup solution (e.g., Samsung Cloud), or connect to a computer to transfer files manually.
Sub-heading: Disable Security Features (Find My iPhone/Find My Device)
Why it's important: These features prevent unauthorized use of your device. If they're still active when you send it in, Verizon cannot process the trade-in, and your device will be returned to you.
How to do it:
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.
For Android phones: Go to Settings > Security & location (or similar) > Find My Device, and toggle it off. You might also need to remove your Google account from the device.
Sub-heading: Perform a Factory Reset
Why it's important: This completely erases all data and settings from your device, returning it to its original factory state. This is your ultimate safeguard for personal data.
How to do it:
For iPhones: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset [Device] > Erase All Content and Settings. You may need to enter your passcode and Apple ID password.
For Android phones: The steps vary slightly by manufacturer, but generally: Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset). You might need to enter your PIN or pattern.
Sub-heading: Remove SIM Card and Memory Cards
Why it's important: Your SIM card contains your phone number and carrier information. Memory cards (like microSD cards) might contain additional personal data. Verizon will not return these if you send them in.
How to do it: Use a SIM ejector tool (usually included with your phone) or a paperclip to open the SIM card tray. Carefully remove the SIM card and any memory cards.
Sub-heading: Remove Accessories
Why it's important: Keep your cases, screen protectors, chargers, and any other accessories. Verizon only needs the device itself. They will not return these items.
Step 3: Initiate the Trade-In Process
Now that your device is prepped, it's time to officially start the trade-in with Verizon. You have a couple of convenient options.
Sub-heading: Online Trade-In (Most Common)
Complete Your New Purchase/Upgrade: If you're getting a new device, complete that purchase first on the Verizon website. During the checkout process, you'll typically be given the option to trade in an old device.
Select Trade-In Option: Follow the prompts to select "Trade in an old device." You'll reconfirm your device's make, model, and condition.
Confirm Trade-In Value: The estimated trade-in value will be displayed again. Review it carefully and confirm your acceptance.
Choose Shipping Method: Verizon offers several ways to send your device:
Verizon-provided shipping kit: They can send you a pre-paid shipping label and packaging materials. This is often the most convenient.
Use your own packaging with a provided label: You'll receive instructions and a shipping label to print.
UPS drop-off with QR code: You might receive a QR code that UPS can scan to print a label and package your device for you.
Important: Ensure you understand the specific instructions for your chosen method.
Receive Confirmation Email: After completing the online submission, you'll receive a confirmation email with your trade-in submission ID and shipping instructions. Keep this email safe! It's your proof of initiation.
Sub-heading: In-Store Trade-In (Instant Appraisal)
Find a Verizon Company Store: Use the Verizon Store Locator to find a Verizon Company Store. Authorized retailers may not always accept trade-ins directly or offer instant credit.
Bring Your Prepped Device: Bring your device (with data backed up, security features disabled, and factory reset) to the store.
On-Site Appraisal: A Verizon representative will visually inspect your device, confirm its condition, and verify the IMEI. They will provide you with an instant appraisal and the final trade-in value.
Receive Instant Credit/Receipt: If you agree to the value, the credit will often be applied immediately towards your new purchase or as an account credit. You will also receive a physical receipt documenting the trade-in. This receipt is your proof of trade-in and extremely valuable if any issues arise.
Step 4: Ship or Drop Off Your Device
This is the point of no return for your old device! Make sure you follow the instructions precisely.
Sub-heading: Shipping Your Device (Online Trade-In)
Package Carefully: If using your own packaging, ensure the device is securely protected with bubble wrap or other cushioning material in a sturdy box. If using a Verizon kit, follow their packing instructions.
Attach Shipping Label: Affix the provided pre-paid shipping label clearly to the package.
Ship Promptly: Send your device within the timeframe specified by Verizon (usually 30 days from initiating the trade-in). Shipping it late can lead to a lower value or even rejection.
Get Tracking: If possible, obtain a tracking number for your package and monitor its journey. This is crucial for proving shipment if there are any discrepancies later.
Sub-heading: Dropping Off Your Device (In-Store Trade-In)
Hand Over Device: Simply hand your prepped device to the Verizon representative.
Verify IMEI: The representative will verify the IMEI on the spot.
Receive Confirmation: Ensure you get a physical receipt that confirms the trade-in, the device details, and the agreed-upon value.
Step 5: Receive Your Trade-In Credit
After your device is received and inspected by Verizon, your credit will be processed.
Sub-heading: Online Trade-In Credit Application
Email Confirmation: You'll typically receive an email confirmation once Verizon receives your device.
Final Appraisal: After inspection (usually within a few days of receipt), you'll receive another email with the final appraised value. This should match your initial estimate if the condition was accurately described. If there's a discrepancy, you'll usually be notified.
Credit Application:
Account Credit: For market value trades or non-promotional trade-ins, the credit is typically applied to your Verizon account within 1-2 bill cycles.
Verizon Gift Card: In some cases, or if you're not a Verizon customer yet, you might receive a Verizon e-Gift Card via email, usually within 2 weeks of device receipt.
Promotional Credits: If your trade-in was part of a promotional offer, the value is often applied as recurring bill credits over the term of your new device payment agreement (e.g., 24 or 36 months).
Instant Credit: If you qualified for instant credit online, the value was already applied to your new device purchase. Be aware of potential chargebacks if Verizon does not receive your device or if its condition doesn't match your description.
Sub-heading: In-Store Trade-In Credit Application
Instant Credit: The primary benefit of in-store trade-ins is often instant credit applied directly to your new device purchase or as a one-time bill credit.
Step 6: Track Your Trade-In Status (If Applicable)
For online trade-ins, monitoring the status is always a good idea.
Verizon Trade-In Tracker: Verizon provides an online tool to check the status of your trade-in. You'll typically need your submission ID (from your confirmation email) or the email address used for the submission.
My Verizon Account: If you're an existing Verizon customer, you can usually track the status within your My Verizon account under "Orders" or "Device Trade-In."
Following these steps meticulously will significantly increase your chances of a smooth and successful Verizon trade-in experience, allowing you to maximize the value of your old device and enjoy your new one!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Verizon Trade-Ins
How to get the best value for my Verizon trade-in?
The best value comes from a device in excellent condition with no damage. Always be honest about the condition when getting an estimate. Look out for special promotional offers from Verizon, as these often provide significantly higher trade-in values, sometimes even for damaged devices.
How to prepare my iPhone for trade-in with Verizon?
Before trading in your iPhone, back up all your data (iCloud or computer), turn off Find My iPhone, sign out of iCloud and iTunes & App Store, then perform a factory reset (Erase All Content and Settings). Don't forget to remove your SIM card.
How to prepare my Android phone for trade-in with Verizon?
For an Android phone, back up your data (Google Drive, cloud, or computer), remove your Google account, turn off Find My Device/Factory Reset Protection, then perform a factory reset. Remember to remove your SIM card and any external memory cards.
How to check the status of my Verizon trade-in?
You can check your trade-in status using Verizon's online Trade-In Tracker (requires your submission ID or email) or by logging into your My Verizon account and navigating to your "Orders" or "Device Trade-In" section.
How to know if my device is eligible for a Verizon trade-in promotion?
Eligibility for promotions is usually specified in the terms and conditions of the offer. This might include requirements like the device being active on your Verizon account for a certain period (e.g., 60 days) or specific models being accepted. Always read the fine print!
How to receive my credit after a Verizon trade-in?
For online trade-ins, credits are typically applied to your Verizon account within 1-2 bill cycles or as a Verizon e-Gift Card via email within 2 weeks after your device is received and inspected. In-store trade-ins often provide instant credit. Promotional values are usually applied as recurring bill credits.
How to deal with a damaged device for Verizon trade-in?
Even damaged devices (cracked screen, etc.) can have trade-in value, especially during specific "any condition" promotions. However, the value will be lower than for a device in good condition. Always accurately describe the damage when getting your estimate. If the battery is swollen or leaking, do not ship it; contact Verizon for instructions.
How to ensure my personal data is wiped before a Verizon trade-in?
The most important step is to perform a factory reset after backing up your data and disabling any anti-theft features (like Find My iPhone/Device). This ensures all personal information is thoroughly erased.
How to contact Verizon customer service about a trade-in issue?
If you encounter any issues, you can contact Verizon customer service through their main support lines, chat support on their website, or visit a Verizon Company Store. Have your trade-in submission ID and any relevant receipts or tracking numbers ready.
How to trade in a device that is not fully paid off with Verizon?
Generally, you must pay off any remaining device payment agreement balance on your Verizon bill before trading in the device. However, some specific promotional offers might allow trade-ins with an outstanding balance, but this is an exception, not the rule. Always verify the terms of the specific promotion.
