In this article, we will show you how to dispose of an old phone and make money, but before that, there are a few things you need to understand. Many people have phones but are attached to them, afraid of losing their personal data, or don't know what to do with them, so we keep the devices we no longer use. On the other hand, by recycling, selling, or reselling your device, you're reducing waste and making money in the process.
Prepare your old phone for disposal
Before you get rid of your old phone—whether you're selling it, recycling it, or donating it—there are a few important steps to take to protect your data and maximise its value.
1. Back up your data
Before anything else, make sure to back up all your important data. You can back up your phone to Google Drive or transfer files to a computer
2. Factory reset the device
This is important to protect your privacy. Each phone brand has its own reset process, but it's usually found under Settings > System > Reset.
3. Remove the SIM and SD cards
Don't forget to remove your SIM card and any SD memory cards. These may still contain personal data, and you can reuse them in a new device.
4. Physically clean the phone
If you're planning on selling the phone, cleaning it with a soft cloth can make a big difference in the appearance of the device. Remove smudges, dust, and fingerprints. If you have all the original accessories, this can increase your phone's resale value.
Factors that determine resale value
• Top brands like Apple and Samsung sell at higher prices.
• A phone in good condition, with no scratches, cracks, or screen issues, will sell for a higher price.
• Having the original box, charger, or unused earphones can increase the resale price slightly.
How to check the estimated price online
Several platforms can help you quickly find out how much your old phone is worth:
• Swappa: A user-to-user marketplace where you can see how much phones similar to yours are actually selling for.
• Eco ATM: Provides a quick estimate online and instant cash payments at kiosks in malls and stores.
Where to sell or trade in your old phone
Once your phone is cleaned, reset, and ready for use, the next step is choosing the best place to sell or trade it in. There are several reliable options, each with its own pros and cons, depending on how quickly you want to sell, how much money you want to make, and how much effort you're willing to put in.
1. Online marketplaces
• eBay: Great for reaching a wide audience and making the most money possible. Just make sure to take clear photos and write an honest description.
• Facebook: This Marketplace is better, where you can meet buyers in person and receive payments directly.
• Swappa: It verifies listings and offers buyer protection, making it safer than many peer-to-peer platforms.
2. Trade-in Programs
Apple, Samsung, Best Buy, and Amazon all offer trade-in programs.
• This is a hassle-free option, although you may earn a little less than selling it yourself.
• This is best for those who want convenience and plan to upgrade.
3. Kiosk Services
Eco ATM: These are self-service kiosks often located in shopping malls or grocery stores.
• You put in your old phone, the machine evaluates it, and you get cash immediately.
• It's quick and easy, but usually pays less than selling online.
• It's a good option if you want to get rid of your phone quickly and don't mind making a little less.
4. Local repair shops and resellers
• Many local phone repair shops buy used phones to repair or use as parts.
• Resellers may also offer store credit or cash, depending on the condition of the phone.
• It's a good idea to check with a few nearby stores to compare offers.
Recycle responsibly if it has no value
If your old phone is too damaged, old, or non-functional to be sold or replaced, don't just throw it in the trash. Instead, recycle it through responsible channels designed for electronic waste (e-waste).
1. Certified e-waste recycling centres
Look for local recycling centres certified to handle electronic waste.
• Look for: R2 (responsible recycling) certification
These programs ensure that your phone is recycled ethically, with minimal impact on the environment.
2. Phone manufacturer recycling programs
Many major phone brands offer free recycling services for old devices:
• Apple's recycling program lets you mail in your old phone, even if it's worth nothing, for proper disposal.
• Samsung, LG, and Google also offer similar recycling services through their websites.
• These programs ensure that your device is recycled safely and sustainably, often at no cost to you.
3. Local electronic waste collection programs
• These programs are usually organised by local governments, schools, or community organisations.
• They're a convenient and environmentally friendly way to safely get rid of broken or outdated electronics.
Responsible recycling of your old phone helps reduce environmental damage, preserve valuable resources, and support a cleaner planet. Even if your phone isn't worth the money, it's still worth doing the right thing.
Bonus: Donate to a cause (still a form of value)
Donating your phone to a charitable organisation gives it a second life and helps someone in need, whether it's a student, a senior, or someone in a crisis situation.
1. Give your phone a second life through charity
Many nonprofit organisations accept used phones to support important causes:
• Some refurbish them and distribute them to low-income families, survivors of domestic violence, or veterans.
• Others sell phones to raise money for healthcare, education, or housing programs.
This is a great option if you're more interested in doing good than making money—and it helps reduce e-waste, too.
2. Tax deduction opportunities
• When filing taxes, you can include it as a charitable contribution.
• This way, even if you didn't sell the phone outright, you can still get some financial benefit.
Final tips to maximise your returns
If you're hoping to make the most money possible from your old phone, a few smart strategies can help you increase its value and get a better deal.
1. Keep the original box and accessories
Buyers love the complete package. If you still have the original box, charger, earphones, and other accessories that came with the phone, include them when selling.
• A phone with its original packaging looks more attractive and trustworthy.
It also shows that the device has been well-cared for, which can increase buyer confidence and the selling price.
2. Sell during peak demand periods
• Back-to-school season, holidays, or right after a new model is released (when people are looking for a good deal on an older model).
• During these times, buyers are actively shopping, and you’re more likely to get more money.
3. Compare multiple options before choosing one
Take the time to compare prices on different platforms:
• Check peer-to-peer prices on Swappa, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace.
• Visit local repair shops or use online tools like Gazelle to evaluate your options.
This extra step ensures that you choose the method that offers the best combination of price, convenience, and speed.
Conclusion
Finally, we will discuss how to dispose of an old phone and make money. Whether you want to sell it, recycle it, donate it, or replace it with another one, there are plenty of ways to benefit financially and environmentally.
To recap the main points
• Prepare your phone by backing up data, factory resetting, and cleaning it for resale.
• Find out its value by considering the brand, model, and condition, and use a tool like Swappa or Gazelle to check the estimate.
• Explore your selling options through online marketplaces, trade-in programs, kiosk services, or local repair shops.
• If your phone has no value, recycle it responsibly through certified e-waste centers or donate it to a cause that can benefit from it.
• Follow the final tips, like keeping the original accessories and selling at the right time to get maximum value.
By taking just a few moments to properly dispose of your old phone, you're making a positive impact on the environment. Plus, you can earn some extra cash and avoid contributing to the growing problem of electronic waste.
