What To Do With An Old Phone That Won’t Turn On: Get Cash with ecoATM
Ever find yourself clinging to a broken phone that simply won’t turn on? It can be frustrating, and that’s also the case if you’re not sure what your options are. Fortunately, ecoATM is here to help!
Even if a smartphone is faulty or doesn’t turn on, ecoATM will accept it for recycling. With over 7,000 kiosk locations across the United States and a process that takes 7 minutes or less, it’s one of the easiest ways to responsibly offload a device you no longer use. In some instances, like with newer phone models, you could even be able to get cash for an old phone that won’t turn on!
We know that letting go of an old phone isn’t always easy - it may hold sentimental value or bring back memories. But tossing it in the trash isn’t just wasteful - it’s an environmental concern. The EPA estimates that only 12.5% of e-waste is currently recycled, which means most discarded devices are harming the planet and squandering recoverable materials. The cell phone recycling industry was valued at $8.4 billion in 2025, underscoring just how much recoverable value is being left on the table. By selling your old phone to ecoATM, you’re not just clearing out a junk drawer - you’re contributing to a more sustainable future. Just keep in mind that sellers have to be 18 years or older to use a kiosk, and if your device has visible damage, expect a cash offer that may be 15% to 40% lower compared to what a phone in perfect condition would fetch.
How Does ecoATM Work?
With over 7,000 automated kiosks located across the United States, finding an ecoATM near you is easier than ever. Our kiosks are designed to recycle used phones in a protected and ethical manner - and we’ll buy them even if they’re broken!
Selling your old phone at an ecoATM kiosk is fast, easy, and issue-free - taking 7 minutes or less from start to finish. Let’s talk about how it works:
- Locate an ecoATM nearby: Visit the ecoATM website or download our mobile app to find the closest kiosk. With thousands of locations across the country, there’s likely one near you. Bonus: if you use the app to get a price estimate ahead of time, that offer is valid for 7 days, subject to the kiosk’s in-person evaluation.
- Get your phone ready: Remove your SIM card, memory cards, and any accessories from your old phone. To protect your privacy, be sure to wipe your personal data before arriving. If you’re unsure how to do this, you can find step-by-step instructions here.
- Stop at the ecoATM kiosk: Bring your old phone to the kiosk and follow the on-screen instructions. The kiosk will examine your device to identify its make, model, and condition. Note that visible damage can reduce your offer by anywhere from 15% to 40% compared to a phone in perfect condition, so it’s worth cleaning up your device before your visit if possible.
- Get an offer: Based on your phone’s condition and current market value, the kiosk will generate a cash offer. Even if your phone is broken or won’t turn on, you may still receive payment for it.
- Accept the offer: Happy with the offer? Accept it and the kiosk will immediately dispense your cash on the spot. Please note that you must be 18 years or older to sell a device at an ecoATM kiosk. If you’re weighing your options, see how ecoATM compares to Best Buy trade-in before you decide.
Why Should You Use ecoATM to Recycle Your Old Phone?
You can help the environment and also make some extra cash by selling your old phone to ecoATM. When you drop off your device at one of our kiosks, you can rest assured it will be recycled - extracting and reusing helpful materials so less new resources are needed and less electronic waste ends up in landfills.
That matters more than ever. The EPA estimates that only 12.5% of e-waste is currently recycled, which means most old devices are still being thrown away instead of responsibly handled. With the cell phone recycling industry valued at $8.4 billion in 2025, it’s clear how important responsible device disposal is for the planet - it’s a growing priority for consumers everywhere. Every phone you bring to ecoATM helps move that needle in the right direction.
ecoATM is also dedicated to advancing environmental responsibility and sustainability. To make sure that recycling is safe and environmentally sound, we abide by strict rules and policies. To date, ecoATM has collected tens of millions of devices - a meaningful contribution to tackling the widespread e-waste problem.
By picking ecoATM, you’re joining forces with a business that supports a cleaner future and goes hand in hand with your values.
Sell Your Old Phone with ecoATM
Don’t let your old phone collect dust or add to the growing e-waste problem. Visit one of ecoATM’s 7,000+ kiosk locations across the United States and sell your old phone for cash in 7 minutes or less - even if it won’t turn on. You’ll receive a fair assessment on the spot and get paid immediately.
Before heading out, you can even check your estimated offer on the ecoATM app. App prices are valid for 7 days, subject to kiosk evaluation. Keep in mind that visible damage can reduce an offer by 15%-40% compared to a device in perfect condition, so it’s worth knowing what to expect ahead of time. Remember that you have to be 18 years or older to sell a device at an ecoATM kiosk.
ecoATM is only a quick search away. Find a location close to you and join the e-cycling movement to start earning!
