6 Smart, Simple Things You Can Do With Your Old Phone

We’ve all got one. Maybe two. Okay, maybe three old phones stashed away in a drawer “just in case.” But, let’s be honest, that backup phone isn’t coming out unless your main one gets run over by a truck and dunked in a lake. Even then, you’d probably still buy a new one.

The truth is, letting your old phone collect dust is like leaving cash on the table. Phones lose value over time, and while a one-year-old model can be worth hundreds, that same phone two years later might barely cover your lunch. Whether it’s an old iPhone, a cracked Samsung, or a pixelated relic from 2014, it’s time to make a plan.

1. Sell It for Cash (Even If It’s Cracked)

Selling your old phone is the quickest way to get value back from it. Even damaged devices have resale value. Especially if the issue is minor like a cracked screen or dead battery. Buyers can repair or harvest parts, so don’t count it out just because it’s not in mint condition.

You’ve got options here. Marketplaces like Swappa, Gazelle, or Decluttr work if you want to handle shipping and customer service. But if you’re looking for fast cash with zero hassle, platforms like BuckUp let you trade in your phone online and get paid instantly. You answer a few questions, ship it off with a prepaid label, and boom! Money in your account.

2. Trade It In for Store Credit

Many retailers and carriers offer trade-in programs when you upgrade your device. Apple, Samsung, Best Buy, and most wireless providers will give you credit toward a new phone or accessory. It’s not always the highest payout, but it’s convenient if you’re planning a purchase anyway.

Before you trade in, check what your phone’s worth using multiple sites. Some trade-in programs will price-match competitors or offer bonuses during promotional events. If you’re loyal to a brand or already due for an upgrade, this can be a quick and painless way to offset the cost.

3. Repurpose It Around the House

Not ready to part with your phone? Give it a second life. Old smartphones make great dedicated devices: turn one into a home security cam, a baby monitor, an e-reader, a music streamer, or a minimalist GPS unit for road trips.

With the right apps, you can also use old phones as smart remotes for your TV, Wi-Fi speakers, or smart home gear. And if you’ve got kids, an old phone (with no SIM card) can be a solid distraction tool, with games, videos, and educational apps installed but no internet access.

4. Donate It to a Good Cause

If you’re feeling generous, old phones can be life-changing for someone else. Many nonprofits and shelters accept used phones to help individuals in crisis stay connected to emergency services, family, or job opportunities. Some programs even refurbish phones and distribute them to people in developing countries.

Organizations like Secure the Call, Cell Phones for Soldiers, and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence accept donations by mail. Just make sure to wipe your data beforehand (more on that below). It’s a tax-deductible act of kindness, and a great way to clear clutter with purpose.

5. Recycle It Responsibly

If your phone is truly beyond repair. Think waterlogged, won’t turn on, or shattered into confetti…it’s time to recycle. But whatever you do, don’t toss it in the trash. Electronics contain hazardous materials that are terrible for the environment and illegal to throw out in many places.

Instead, find a certified e-waste recycling program. Local electronics stores, city-run recycling centers, and big-box retailers like Staples and Best Buy often accept old phones for proper disposal. You can also use Earth911’s locator tool to find a recycling site near you. Recycling protects the planet and keeps you compliant with local laws.

6. Wipe Your Data Before Doing Anything

Before you sell, donate, or recycle your phone, make sure you wipe all personal data. Back up your photos and contacts, then perform a factory reset. This removes your accounts, passwords, text messages, and everything else you wouldn’t want floating around out there.

For iPhones, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. For Android, it’s usually under Settings > System > Reset > Erase All Data. Once reset, double-check that your SIM and SD cards are removed. If you’ve got an iCloud or Google account connected, unlink it first to prevent issues for the next user.

Your Old Phone Is Worth More Than You Think

Letting your old phone sit idle goes beyond clutter and now represents lost opportunity. Whether you want to make fast cash, support a good cause, or reduce electronic waste, there’s a smart next step for that retired device. With the right approach, your old phone can still work for you, even after you’ve stopped using it.

And if you want the simplest way to turn your old device into instant money? You know where to go. (It rhymes with BuckUp. Because it is BuckUp.)