With smartphones getting more and more expensive with each new release, getting the most money for your old phone is becoming increasingly more important. Whether you're opting to get cash for your phone or prefer to trade your phone in for a new one, it's important to look at exactly what your phone is worth vs how much you're getting. If you're looking for fast, easy cash, there are several companies, such as Gazelle, Flipsy.com and ecoATM that will give you fast cash for your old phone. Or, if you prefer to upgrade your phone, your carrier may offer you a big discount on your old phone when you purchase a new one. These are both quick and painless ways to get money or a credit for your phone, without the hassle of trying to sell to a private seller. If you're trying to find the best ways to trade in your cell phone for cash or upgrade, keep reading to see the top questions and answers.
While upgrading your old phone to a new phone through your carrier is certainly the easiest way to get credit for your old phone, you're likely to get more if you trade in your phone for cash or sell it outright to a private party. If you're going to use that cash to buy a new phone, however, you might be better off simply upgrading your phone.
With Gazelle, you simply input your phone information on the website to see what your phone is worth and then ship your phone using a prepaid box. Once your phone is received and the condition verified, you'll receive your payment in the form of a check, an Amazon gift card, or through PayPal.
ecoATM has kiosks in hundreds of locations across the United States. Simply put your phone information into the kiosk and agree to the payment amount, insert your phone, and you'll walk away with cash in your pocket. This service is best for older phones that are cluttering up your home, but won't give you the most payout for newer phones.
Flipsy.com allows you to sell your phone through verified online phone buyback stores, and claims you'll get as much as 30 percent more for your phone than you would through a carrier upgrade. Flipsy.com can take a bit more time to sell, but may also result in more money in your pocket, so if you're not in a hurry to sell, this can be a great option.
Online selling sites, such as eBay and Amazon are great options if you want to sell your phone directly. While this may take more time than other options, you may end up getting more for your phone than you would otherwise, especially if the phone is in good condition.
Depending on where you choose to sell, there may be certain criteria your phone must meet in order to receive a decent payout. Check each trade in site to find out which one is the best option for you if your phone is not currently working. Most carriers require your phone to be free of major damage and power on in order to trade the phone in for an upgrade.
Most major carriers, such as AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon, will allow you to upgrade your phone regularly, even if you're still making payments. Some carriers require that you've paid off a certain amount of the balance before upgrading. Talk to your carrier to find out whether your phone is currently eligible for an upgrade.
You can purchase a new phone on both Gazelle and through Flipsy.com, which may help you save on your new cell phone and pay significantly less than you might pay through your carrier.