How do free iPhone trade-in deals work?
You hand in an eligible phone and the carrier credits up to the new iPhone's full price, paid as monthly bill credits over 24–36 months on a qualifying plan. Apple Trade In pays less, but upfront and with no plan required.
- Promotions may give full credit even for damaged phones
- Turn off Find My before trading in
- Credits can stop if you change to a cheaper plan
How trade-in deals make an iPhone free
Free iPhone trade-in deals work like this: carriers accept your old phone and give you credit toward a new iPhone. During promotions the credit can equal the entire price of the new phone, even for old or cracked devices, but it is paid as monthly bill credits on a qualifying plan.
Apple's own trade-in pays a fixed value upfront, which is lower but has no plan strings attached.
Carrier vs Apple vs third-party trade-in
| Trade-in with | Value | Paid as | Strings attached |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier promotion | Up to full iPhone price | Monthly credits (24–36 mo) | Premium plan, stay the full term |
| Apple Trade In | Fixed market value | Instant credit or gift card | None |
| Resale / buyback sites | Market value | Cash or PayPal | Phone must match description |
Not sure which option fits you?
Answer 5 quick questions and the Phone Finder matches you with programs, providers and deals.
What your old iPhone might be worth
| Old phone | Typical promo credit | Typical cash value |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 11 | Often full credit in promos | $80–$150 |
| iPhone 12 | Often full credit in promos | $120–$200 |
| iPhone 13 | Full credit common | $180–$280 |
| Samsung Galaxy S21+ | Frequently accepted | $80–$160 |
Cash values vary widely by storage and condition. Get quotes from several buyers.
How do you get the most for your trade-in?
- Check the eligible device list Promotions list which models get full credit. Older phones may get less.
- Back up and turn off Find My Settings → your name → Find My → turn off Find My iPhone, then erase the device.
- Remove SIM and accessories Keep your case and charger, since they're not needed.
- Get the terms in writing Screenshot the promo page showing credit amount and duration.
- Track your credits Credits often start on your 2nd or 3rd bill. Contact support if they don't.
Is a trade-in right for you?
What's good
- Newest iPhones for $0
- Old or damaged phones still valuable in promos
- Easy in-store process
Watch out for
- Long commitment
- Premium plan required
- You lose resale value of the old phone
Here is how a “free” carrier iPhone works: an iPhone 17 Pro Max is financed over 36 months, and the carrier credits your bill the same amount each month. The phone ends up free, but only if you keep a qualifying plan for the full term.
| Example | |
|---|---|
| Retail price | $1199 |
| Term | 36 months |
| Monthly device charge | $33.31 |
| Monthly promo credit | −$33.31 |
| You pay for the phone | $0 if you stay the full term |
| If you leave after 12 months | about $799 still owed |
Mistakes that cost you trade-in credit
- Leaving Find My iPhone on. The trade-in is rejected or delayed until Activation Lock is removed.
- Sending the wrong model. Credit is based on the model you declared. A mismatch can drop the value to near zero.
- Missing the shipping deadline. Mail-in trade-ins usually must arrive within 30 days.
- Changing plans too soon. Promo credits usually require keeping a qualifying plan for the whole term.
- Not tracking credits. Check every bill and keep your trade-in confirmation email.
Trade-in vs selling your old phone
Trade in when…
- Promo credits can exceed the phone's cash value
- One transaction in store
- Works even for damaged phones in some promos
Sell instead when…
- Credits are locked to one carrier
- Cash sales give you money now, with no plan required
- You lose flexibility to switch
If the promo credit is only slightly higher than cash value, selling may be better. You keep the freedom to use a cheaper plan or a Lifeline provider.
Frequently asked questions
Can I trade in a broken iPhone for a free one?
Some carrier promotions give full credit for eligible phones in any condition. Check the terms before you rely on it.
Do I have to add a line for a trade-in deal?
Not always. Many promotions work on upgrades, but the best credits often require a new line or specific plan.
What happens to my credits if I switch plans?
Dropping to a cheaper plan can void the remaining credits. Read the plan requirements carefully.
Sources & last update
Last reviewed . We check program rules against official FCC and USAC guidance and update pages when rules, income limits or offers change. Spot something out of date? Tell us.