How to make cash on your old phone – A guide to selling your phone in 2025

Got an old phone gathering dust somewhere amongst all your other clutter? You could be sitting on some cash which might come in handy! Everyone feels the pinch in January, or if you’re like us, then every month! Whether you have an old brick laying around somewhere or you’ve upgraded to a shiny new phone – lucky you! Selling your old phone is a great way to earn some extra cash and clear up that all important space in your junk drawer, for more junk!

1. So why sell your old phone? Let look at some reasons as to why you could benefit:

Kerching! That manky old phone could be your golden ticket to some easy cash. Treat yourself to something new or save up for them holiday drinks!
Save the Planet: Instead of throwing away your phone and letting it go to landfill, recycling or selling can help give it a second life – Think of the environment!
Become the next Marie Kondo: Not quite! But letting go of your old devices will free up more space for important things (like more chocolate).

2. How to prep your phone so it’s sale ready:

Let’s put it this way, no one’s buying your device if it looks like it’s been used as part of an exorcism. Get that phone looking as good as new to attract more sales!

Wipe down the screen with a soft cloth and get rid of all of them greasy fingerprints.
Check for any scratches, dents, or chips. Always consider putting on a screen protector or durable case on your phone to help keep it looking presentable.
Glitchy charging port or cracks in the screen? Getting minor issues like this fixed before selling it sometimes outweighs selling it as it is. Plus, you’ll make back the extra cash you’ll get from the sale.

3. Back Up Your Data! Nobody wants to lose them all important food pics you have taken and firework video’s you’ll never watch again!

Before you sell your phone, make sure you back up all your stuff like contact numbers, photos, and documents – Do it now or regret later!

4. Factory Reset Your Phone.

You don’t want the next owner to find your embarrassing texts or questionable search history. A factory reset will wipe your data clean and ensure no private info leaks out.

Here’s where to go to help reset your phone:

iPhone Reset Guide
Samsung Reset Guide

5. Don’t get ghosted!

Now that we’ve helped you get your phone in tip top shape, it’s time to find a buyer. Just like matchmaking, you want someone who is trustworthy and won’t leave you on read.

Check for verified customer feedback. Trustpilot is a good place to start. Have we mentioned we have a 4.9 star review – We can’t all be perfect!
Look for the Phonecheck verification stamp. Not to blow our own trumpet, but we have one!
Make sure communication is flowing! Go with your instincts, if something feels off then you’re probably right.
Beware of scammers. Some sellers may ask you to send your phone before giving you a price. At PhoneBox, we give you a quote upfront, so you’re not left hanging.

Now that you’re an expert, you’ll be ready to sell your old phone like a pro and pocket some extra change! Good luck and may the resale gods be ever in your favor!