RECYCLING OLD TECHNOLOGY

Sometimes it seems that the only thing harder to get rid of than old electronics is old couches. Television sets, desktop computers, monitors, printers, tablets and even old smartphones have a tendency to hang around, even after their usefulness has run out. Most municipal garbage services advise not to throw these items in the trash, which can leave you out of luck when it comes to disposing of old technology. Thankfully, there are ways to get rid of old tech, some of which are actually quite convenient. Here are some helpful tips:

Ready to move on from your iPhone 6? You can get cash for that. Photo credit: Zeynep Demir / Shutterstock.com
Ready to move on from your iPhone 6? You can get cash for that. Photo credit: Zeynep Demir/Shutterstock.com

1. Replace and trade in old phones

Many wireless providers allow you to trade in old phones when upgrading to the newest model. In fact, T-Mobile accepts iPhone 6s and other older devices, so even a previous-generation smartphone that is still perfectly good can be traded in for a new one.

Once you upgrade your device, you will receive a bubble pack that is pre-stamped and pre-paid. Simply mail in your old phone, and you will receive a check one to two weeks later for the value of the device. Yes, not only do you get rid of your old smartphone, you can get cash back, too. Not a bad deal, right?

Next page: Tip #2

By Jessica Oaks

Jessica Oaks is associate editor for Freshly Techy and a freelance writer covering technology, healthcare, finance, fashion, travel and more.