Mar 27, 2023
PureTalk Makes Trading in Your Cell Phone Easy
Reading time: 7 minutes
Trading in your cell phone is a great way to save money on the purchase of a new one. And if you’ve had your old phone for two years or so, it’s likely you’ll get twenty-five percent of its value. Considering how expensive new cell phones can be, that’s not a bad chunk of change to be able to put toward a new one. So how do you trade in your old phone? In this post, we share the steps to do so with PureTalk. It’s hassle free and fast.
How it works
During the purchase of a new cell phone, you can choose to trade in your current cell phone. Even new customers! Once you create and confirm your trade, PureTalk sends you a shipping kit containing all the necessary materials for the safe transit of your old cell phone to Phobio, our trusted trade-in partner. Once Phobio receives your cell phone and inspects it, we credit the payment method used when purchasing your new device.
How long does it take?
The entire trade-in process usually takes about 3-4 weeks.
Do I have to be a current PureTalk customer to trade-in my cell phone?
No. Current and new customers purchasing a new phone from PureTalk can trade in their current device for credit towards the payment method used during the purchase of a new cell phone.
What cell phones are eligible for PureTalk’s trade-in program?
Select iPhone and Android Mobile phones are compatible phones and are eligible for trade-in.
What information do I need to know and provide to PureTalk when trading in my cell phone?
You will need to know and provide your cell phone ID, also known as its IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number.
To find your cell phone’s imei number:
On iPhone:
Go to Settings, then tap General, then tap About. The number will either appear immediately or you’ll have to scroll down a bit. It depends upon which model iPhone you have.
On Android:
Go to Settings, then tap About, then tap Phone. The number will either appear immediately or you’ll have to scroll down a bit. It depends upon what phone you have.
OR visit PureTalk's “In the Know” series video on finding your IMEI number here!
Is there anything I need to do to my cell phone before I send it off to Phobio?
Yes. Before your old cell phone leaves your hands, make sure you delete all your data. Text messages, emails, photos, other media, and apps should be backed up to storage for the sake of safety. Then go into Settings and restore all of them to the original factory settings.
You also need to disable the Activation Lock, i.e. Find My iPhone, Find My Device, before sending it in.
It is very important that activation lock (ie: Find My iPhone, Find My Device) is disabled before sending your cell phone to Phobio. If the activation lock is on when your cell phone is received, it will be deemed ineligible for trade in and will be returned you with no trade in value credited to your payment method.
Is there anything else that could prevent my cell phone from being eligible for trade in?
Cell phones with signs of battery swelling are not eligible for trade-in. These can overheat and catch fire. Be aware that damaged, defective or recalled batteries are also forbidden for air transport.
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Now that you know how the PureTalk trade in program works, how to prepare your phone before mailing it, and the issues that could prevent you from receiving credit toward the purchase of a new cell phone, you probably have a few questions. Following are those we’re asked pretty frequently.
Device Trade-In FAQs
How do I track my trade?
After you complete a purchase with a trade-in, PureTalk will send you several emails regarding your trade. Each of these emails has a "Trade Status" button that links to a site that enables you to check on the status of your trade, including FedEx tracking information.
What if I didn’t receive a shipping kit or the one I got is incomplete?
Let us know immediately, and we’ll take care of it. We’ll get a new shipping kit sent to you, or we can email you a new shipping label. Simply contact PureTalk Customer Support at 877-820-7873.
What is the best way to ship my old device to Phobio?
The best and safest way to ship your old device to Phobio is through your local, staffed, Federal Express office. Please refrain from using a FedEx drop box as this can result in delays. When you bring your phone in its shipping kit to Federal Express, request a receipt for your records.
When can I expect to receive my trade in credit?
You will receive a credit towards the payment method you used to make your new device purchase within 5-7 business days after your cell phone has been received by Phobio and the inspection has been completed. If you have not received your credit within 7 business days of your trade payment confirmation, please contact PureTalk Customer Support at 877-820-7873.
What if I change my mind about trading my cell phone after I ship it?
Once a device ships, ownership transfers to Phobio per the Terms and Conditions.
Why was my trade-in offer revised?
Phobio inspects devices upon arrival to verify reported conditions. If the conditions are not verified, you will receive notification of the revision via email. At this point, you may accept the revised offer, or have the device returned to you at no cost.
Now that you know how easy it is to trade in with PureTalk, discover our blazing fast high-speed data, nationwide coverage and Mix and Match low-cost cell phone plans! Get the unlimited data plan that's right for you.
Did you know….
The average family of four that switches to PureTalk cell phone service saves $75 a month for a total of $900 a year. (To say nothing of how much we help seniors save!)
With PureTalk, you get the best cell service for less and the best cell phone plans – not to mention the most cost-effective and best unlimited plans that really take into account how much high-speed data you truly need – anywhere. You can get the best cell phones and the high-speed data unlimited plan that's best for you.
You also get the best cell phone coverage in 30+ countries including Canada and Mexico and a referral program that can save you big time on your PureTalk service. Beyond that there’s the fact that you can bring your own phone and keep your number (or get a new phone!). And if that’s not enough to help you make the switch to PureTalk wireless service, we offer a 30-day money back guarantee.
In addition, at PureTalk, we believe that nothing is more important than family. That’s why we’re happy to help you find the right cell phones – and wireless service plans with unlimited data – for your child and your entire family.
What Our Customers Are Saying
“First of all, this is a great veteran owned company and a company that loves America. The phone service is great and the customer service is wonderful. They offer a choice of android devices and Apple so you can get a new phone or bring your old one. I wish every company was like this.” Vinson Johnson, 5-star review via Trustpilot
Cell Phone Plans for Families
Did you know that PureTalk offers plans that start at just $25 a month for unlimited talk and text and unlimited data that's blazing fast? We do. And our Family Plans let you choose the right unlimited data plan for each family member. You can have any number of lines and choose the perfect wireless plan for each one. Your family members get exactly what they need, including exactly how much unlimited data they need, and you never pay for anything they don't. Whatever your family's size or unlimited data needs may be, you're sure to save a bundle!
Cell Phone Plans for Seniors
Did you know that most seniors use less than 2GB of data per month? PureTalk offers great plans for seniors that let you pay only for what you – and they – actually want – and nothing you don’t based upon how much data - high speed data - they really use. And with PureTalk you get the same great cell phone service and blazing fast coverage while saving money each month.
At PureTalk, we don’t think you should pay for data you don’t need and aren’t going to use. Switch today and receive great service and blazing-fast coverage while saving money each month.
Choose from PureTalk’s most popular plans for great cell service
$25/month: Unlimited Talk & Text; 4GB Data
$30/month: Unlimited Talk & Text; 6GB Data
Depending upon how much data you need, you can always add more!
Simply go into your account portal and add more. When next month rolls around, if you need less data, you can go right back into your portal and reduce it. Simply log onto PureTalk.com, click on My Account, and select Manage My Data. Make your changes, save them, and log out. It’s that simple.
Traveling outside the US?
Think of PureTalk as your travel partner. Get the best cellphone coverage in 30+ countries including Canada and Mexico with PureTalk International Roaming.
How it works:
1.
Travel to your international destination.
Every plan includes up to $20/month of international credits, so your phone will work in 30+ countries automatically. No SIM swapping or apps required!
2.
Use your phone internationally like you do at home.
When you arrive at your destination, you’ll automatically have up to $20 of international credits. When you make a call, send texts, or use data it will be deducted from your credit balance. Check the rate finder above to see the international rate for your destination.
3.
No overages or surprise charges.
If you use all of your existing international credit, you will not be charged any fees. If you need more international credits, just log into your account portal and select the International roaming add-on. (Credits do not rollover)
PureTalk’s International Roaming means:
- Constant connectivity.
- No pricey roaming charges.
- No additional devices to lug around.
In addition to our no contract, low cost, unlimited talk and text cell phone plans, PureTalk offers Canada- and Mexico-bound customers great value and something even more important: peace of mind. PureTalk’s International Roaming is the best $10 you’ll ever spend. Add it with one click and stay connected.
Other mobile virtual network operator companies have referral programs, but none come close to PureTalk’s
At PureTalk, when you refer your friends, you reward yourself.
When you join PureTalk, you’re given a unique referral link you can share with friends and family. For each friend who signs up through your unique link, you receive a $20 credit applied to your account, and your friend receives a $20 credit applied to their account. Best of all, there are no limits. You can refer as many friends as you want, and you will get a $20 credit for every single one of them.
Everything you need to know about the PureTalk Customer Referral Program:
1. Each customer has a unique referral link to share with friends. For each friend who signs up through your unique link, you will receive a $20 bill credit applied to your account, and your friend will receive a $20 credit applied to their account.
2. There are no limits to how many friends you can refer with PureTalk's Customer Referral Program. Refer all of your friends and get a $20 credit for every single one of them.
3. Your $20 credit will post to your account after your friend completes their second active month of service.
4. To see which of your friends you have referred to PureTalk, log in to MY ACCOUNT and click the "Referrals" tab at the top of the page. You will see all of your referrals listed in the "Referral Credits" table at the bottom of the page.
5. You can post your referral link anywhere you want. On your social media channels, your blog, in emails, etc. You can grab your unique referral link by logging in to My Account and clicking the Referrals tab.
6. There are two ways you can earn referral credits. Your friend can use your unique referral link or enter your phone number at checkout when asked if a friend referred him.
Don’t forget: Remind those you are referring to PureTalk to enter your phone number at checkout IF they’ve forgotten to sign up through your referral link.
With the PureTalk referral program you can earn as many credits as you have friends and save even more on the plan of your choice!
What Our Customers Are Saying
“When I called the company, they were so helpful and easy to understand. When I purchased new cell phones and needed to activate the eSim, it only took a few minutes. Customer service and tech support were so considerate in assisting this non-techy person.” Brenda Novodvorsky, 5-star review via Trustpilot
PureTalk’s Risk-Free, 30-Day Money Back Guarantee makes it easy to give us a try
We all know how frustrating it can be to make a big purchase and then realize you made the wrong choice. What a hassle. If you ordered something online, you need to pack it up and send it back. If you purchased something from a store like Target, for instance, well you’re most likely stuck with it because nobody makes it back before the refund window closes. Ok, maybe you do. But most mortals don’t. There just isn’t enough time in the day and, honestly, who can remember where they put the receipt?
At PureTalk, we get it. We know that choosing a wireless provider is a big purchase. That’s why we make it easy to change your mind with just a phone call.
What our customers are saying:
I was hesitant to leave AT&T though my bill kept increasing decade after decade. But my brother insisted I try PureTalk. So, one day I did. From the first conversation I had, I knew the customer service was first rate. In fact, I put them up there with Apple support, which is my gold standard. The customer service at PureTalk is excellent. They employ knowledgeable, well -spoken young people who use patience, kindness and clarity to communicate. I am so happy with PureTalk! Lynellen Carmoney, 5-star review via Trustpilot
Make the switch without breaking a sweat
Like you, we work hard for our money so we understand that if you spend it on something that doesn’t meet your needs, that’s a big problem. That’s why we developed our Money Back Guarantee, so there’s no risk when you sign up. You can make the switch without breaking a sweat. We’re confident you’ll love your PureTalk service, but if we’re wrong, just give us a buzz. Let us know that you need a refund, and we’ll make things right.
Really. In addition to all the things PureTalk offers – great savings, blazing fast data, and freedom from contracts – we give you 30 days to see if we’re the right fit for you. You have until your next bill date, or until you’ve used 500 minutes or 500 MB of data usage, (whichever comes first), to contact customer service and request a refund. We mean it when we say, “Love our service or your money back.”
Your satisfaction is guaranteed
We have total faith in our product and our people to deliver on PureTalk’s promise of excellent coverage and customer service. But, we understand that sometimes things just don’t work out. That’s why you can get a refund in two simple steps.
Refunds in two simple steps
1.) Call us at 877-820-7873
2.) Cancel your service and request your refund
Earning your trust is important to us
The overpriced carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile don’t seem to care if you’re worried about making a big change. They expect you to sign up with them simply because you know their name.
Not PureTalk.
Here at PureTalk, we want to make sure you feel good about making a change in your wireless carrier. Earning your trust is important to us. That’s why PureTalk’s Money Back Guarantee gives you 30 days to see why PureTalk fits your needs perfectly or, if it doesn’t, to request a full refund. To qualify for a refund you just need to cancel any time before your next bill date, or before you use 500 minutes of talk or 500 MB of data, whichever comes first. You’ll receive the money you paid for your plan right back onto your credit or debit card within 2 weeks, no questions asked.
Find the plan that’s right for you
What our customers are saying:
Great service. Great price. Extremely helpful customer service. I’ve had them all. This company is the best mobile phone company I’ve ever had! Mr. Smith, 5-star review via Trustpilot
Why choose PureTalk?
When you choose PureTalk, you’re choosing to support a company whose values align with your own. You’re choosing to support a company whose CEO is a U.S. veteran. And you’re also choosing to support American jobs: 100% of our customer service is based right here in the United States.
Plus, with PureTalk, you can bring your phone and keep your phone number or choose from our terrific selection of cell phones, including the latest iPhones and Androids.
What Our Customers Are Saying
“We switched from AT&T and we have not noticed any difference in coverage. We have not needed to contact customer support often. When we do, it’s great that we can quickly talk to a live representative!” Tiffany M. 5-star review via Trustpilot
“Pure Talk may not be for technophiles, but it serves my needs perfectly at a terrific price. What I really love about them is how helpful and delightful their support people are.” Michael R. 5-star review via TrustPilot
“I am so glad I switched to PureTalk. The customer service is fantastic which is so rare these days. But most of all I live in a small apartment and I have my own internet and it didn’t matter where I was in the room, calls dropped constantly. But I have not had any problems since I switched to PureTalk.” Jennifer Hersh 5-star review via TrustPilot
Don’t wait. Pick a plan now that meets your needs, suits your lifestyle, and helps you save!
Money Back Guarantee Frequently Asked Questions
Is PureTalk’s 30-day Money Back Guarantee for real?
It is. We have great faith in our product and our people to deliver on PureTalk’s promise of excellent coverage and customer service. But we understand that sometimes things just don’t work out. So, if you’re not totally satisfied with your PureTalk service within the first 30-days of using it, until you’ve used 500 minutes, or 500 MB of data usage, (whichever comes first) just call us at 877-820-7873 to cancel your service and request your refund.
If I activate my service today, how long do I have to cancel?
You have until your next bill date, or until you’ve used 500 minutes or 500 MB of data usage, (whichever comes first), to contact customer service and request a refund.
If I call and cancel my service, will I automatically be refunded?
No, when you call and speak with a PureTalk customer service representative to cancel your service you must specifically request your refund in order to begin the process.
Where can I find the date of my next bill?
The date of your next bill is available online in your account portal. Don’t feel like logging in? Simply call 611 for the information.
What if I purchased your service but never activated it?
Not a problem. If a line is never activated, you still have up to 30 days from the date of delivery to request a refund.
How do I get my refund and how long does it take?
Refunds are issued in accordance with your original form of payment so, if you used your credit or debit card, you’ll see the refund as a credit on your statement. As for timing, refunds are typically processed within just 2 weeks.
Does the Money Back Guarantee apply to the phone I purchased from PureTalk?
No, it does not. Devices are not included in our Money Back Guarantee. You can see our full device policy here.
What if I decide to cancel after 30 days?
Unfortunately, the limit for refund is within the first 30 days of service, or the first 500 minutes of talk, or 500MB of data used, whichever comes first, but we’re confident that it will be long enough to realize PureTalk is perfect for your needs. Once the Money Back Guarantee period ends, no refunds are issued, however you are still able to cancel your service at any time.
Get your money back in two simple steps
1.) Call us at 877-820-7873
2.) Cancel your service and request your refund
Terms & Conditions
Device purchases are not covered under the Money Back Guarantee. Please see full device policy here.
Customer has until their next bill date, or 500 minutes or 500 MB of data usage (whichever comes first) to contact customer service to request a refund. Your next bill date is viewable online by logging into the customer portal or by dialing 611 from your PureTalk™ phone. Customer’s monthly service plan, SIM card, and any applicable taxes are eligible for a refund. If a line is never activated, customer has up to 30 days from the date of delivery to request a refund. Refunds will be issued in accordance with the original form of payment. Please allow up to 2 weeks for refund processing. PureTalk™ does not charge an early termination fee. Device purchases are not covered under this policy.
After your Money Back Guarantee trial period ends, no refunds will be issued for any portion of unused monthly service plan. However, customer will not be billed on their next billing date.
What our customers are saying:
I love PureTalk! The service coverage is great. The personnel are friendly, knowledgeable and go the extra mile to solve your issue! Rita Jones, 5-star review via Trustpilot
It’s good to do business with a cell company that is more closely aligned with my values! Everyone I’ve talked to at PureTalk is very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly! Keep up the good work! Colby P., 5-star review via Trustpilot
“This service is an excellent value, with customer service techs who are polite and professional.” B.L. Bethel, 5-star review via Trustpilot
“The company was very quick and I could understand them. The sales agent I dealt with called me back in a timely manner. They sold me an ESIM and is was activated within 15 minutes with a new number. Very courteous staff.” Jason, 5-star review via Trustpilot
“I spoke with a representative who was sharp, easy to understand and had the answer to my question about international service. Pure Talk has saved us $60 a month. I don’t notice any change in coverage or call clarity.” Patricia Grant, 5-star review via Trustpilot
Posted 1 year ago