Are you planning on getting the new iPhone 6? If so, what are you going to do with your old phone? One option is to sell it. Businesses offer cash on the spot for your used electronics.
Bill Hendrix, who buys old cell phones for a living, said if you're thinking of selling, there are a few things you need to know.
Here's a general guide for getting the most money for your old technology:
Hendrix said condition and carrier are the two biggest factors when dealing in used cellphones.
"If it's cracked, it's going to decrease the value; if its all scratched up, it's going to decrease the value," he explained.
Phones using AT&T or T-Mobile service have the highest resale value.
"That's what people want, because of the versatility," he said. "They can be unlocked and they can be taken to any carrier."
Other providers don't offer that option.
Hendrix said when you bring your phone in, clean it up and fully charge the battery. Remove the phone from your account and bring a copy of your bill to prove that nothing is owed on the account.
For security, perform a factory reset. Remember to remove the SD and SIM card on Samsung phones.
Hendrix said do your research. Get quotes from several other businesses to get an idea what your phone is worth. He cautioned about using online services though.
"I've never known one person, ever, to send in a phone to an online store and get what it actually was quoted," he added.
Hendrix said regardless of your phone's value, you should never just throw it in the trash.
Chain stores that will recycle:
Find a recycling center near you:
Find out about electronics trade-in programs from Consumer Reports: