Can You Sell Your Unpaid AT&T Phone?
Posted on 19th Nov 2020 17:04:02 in General, Selling

Click here if you are looking to sell your unpaid T-Mobile device.


When you sell an unpaid phone or device, you have to keep in mind that just because you no longer own the phone does not mean that your responsibilities disappear too. 


Many phone companies, such as AT&T, make it clear that if you sell an unpaid phone and neglect the payments, it could affect you and the new phone owner. 


If you are looking to sell your unpaid phone without jeopardizing yourself or someone else, keep reading


The AT&T Contract

In AT&T’s terms of service, it states that when you sign the contract, you agree to make all required payments as needed. 


If you fail to meet your obligations, AT&T reserves the right to cancel your service and terminate your contract. 


This occurs if: 

  • You fail to make required payments when due 

  • Your credit has deteriorated and they believe there’s a chance of non-payment 

  • You refuse to pay required any advance payments

     

What Happens if I Don’t Make Payments? 

Unlike T-Mobile, AT&T will not blacklist your phone when there are several missed payments. 


Instead, they lock your phone. A locked phone is one that can only be used with the carrier’s service. All AT&T devices come locked, and can only be used with a compatible SIM card. 


Only after the phone is paid in full and all requirements are met is when a phone can be unlocked, meaning that buyers under other carriers have access to the device. 


How do I Sell my Unpaid Phone?

You will have the most luck selling your phone if it is completely paid off, but if this is not the case there are still options. 


If you are selling your phone directly to someone else, the first thing you should do to have a successful transaction is to notify the buyer that the phone is unpaid and locked. 


Many times, people are not properly notified of the risks and are left with a phone they can’t even use. 


You can also sell your phone to buy-back companies such as Tech Reboot, which gives you an instant cash quote and pays more than any other service. 


Above everything else, the most important thing you can do for yourself and the buyer is making sure you are making your payments on time.


This will give you a good reputation if you ever need to sell an unpaid phone again, and gives you the freedom to switch carriers and get a new phone.