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How to Trade In a Damaged Smartphone

Disclose the condition accurately and compare damaged-device promotions with repair, resale, and standard trade-in value.

The short answer

Disclose the condition accurately and compare damaged-device promotions with repair, resale, and standard trade-in value.

Step by step

  1. Check whether the phone powers on and document the screen, back, cameras, charging port, buttons, and water indicators.

  2. Read the program's exact definition of eligible damage and whether the offer changes after inspection.

  3. Compare the net value of trading as-is, repairing first, selling for parts, or recycling securely.

  4. Back up and erase the phone, remove activation locks, and photograph its condition and serial number before shipping.

  5. Use the provided tracked packaging and monitor the final appraisal and bill credits.

Before you finish

Keep screenshots, receipts, chat transcripts, confirmation numbers, and the first bill after a change. Carrier terms and account eligibility can change, so verify the final price and conditions directly before submitting an order.

Continue with the related SaveOnPhone guide