How to Donate a Cell Phone

by Aksana Nikolai

Overview

It has become increasingly common for cell phone users to get a new phone every few years. As a result, you may have a collection of old cell phones. Many of these used cell phones are still in working condition yet end up collecting dust. But that need not be the case. You can recycle your cell phones and their handsets. Your donation can help soldiers stationed abroad or be used as an emergency lifeline for a domestic violence victim or senior citizen.

Donate any old cell phones you have accumulated over the years.

Step 1

Contact your wireless provider to cancel the account linked to the phone you wish to donate if you have not already done so.
Step 2

Delete any information stored on the phone such as phone book entries, text messages and call log. (See Resources.)
Step 3

Choose a donation program.
Step 4

Print a shipping label from the organization's website and mail the phone in a padded envelope. Alternatively, leave the phone at one of the organization's drop-off locations.
Step 5

Print a donation receipt and keep it on file for your records.

1
Computer Shipping label Padded envelope Donation receipt
Computer
Shipping label
Padded envelope
Donation receipt
Some programs accept cell phone donations even if they are missing accompanying wireless accessories such as chargers.
Some programs accept cell phone donations even if they are missing accompanying wireless accessories such as chargers.

Overview