Frequently Asked Questions

What types of organizations are eligible to collect?

Any individual, any organization, and any group is eligible to receive funds through Absolute Recycling.

What is the minimum amount of phones to collect before shipping?

25 phones. Other cellular recyclers have a minimum of 100 phones before accepting a shipment. Since we do pay the shipping costs to have your box sent to us, we ask that you please collect at least 25 handsets before requesting pickup.

How much is each used cell phone worth?

Depending on the model and market value, there is no limit to how much a used cell phone is worth. Some newer models are worth well over $300. Though not all phones are worth this much, your organization will receive the fair market value for every phone sent.

What type of phones can be collected?

Collect wireless phones. Cordless phones intended for home use are not acceptable. All cellular or PCS hand-carried phones will be accepted.

Must every phone be in working order?

It is preferred that you send phones that are working to the best of your knowledge, so that these may be evaluated for your payment. But you are welcome to send broken phones too. Non-working phones will be recycled and disposed of according to EPA regulations.

Where do the phones go?

The working phones that have value are refurbished and sold in countries where that model's technology will work and is in demand. Some phones may have functional technology but have no market value. These go into an emergency 911 handset program for the elderly and battered women shelters. Finally, there are phones that have no value and are not re-marketed. These units are recycled in accordance with all applicable federal, state and local regulations.

Do you accept accessories, owner’s manuals, and chargers?

No, Absolute does not accept accessories such as earpieces, chargers, manuals, etc. However, Absolute encourages you to include the cell phone batteries with your shipment, as batteries contain many toxic substances and should be recycled properly.

How do I send the phones to you without paying anything?

When you have gathered 25+ cell phones, please call or email us with your shipping address, and the weight of each box. We do the rest! We will schedule to have Fed-Ex come to your location, they will already have shipping labels to put on the boxes.

How do I prepare the box for shipment?

Stuff the box with packing material (bubble wrap or newspaper) to protect the phones during shipment. Then completely seal the boxes with heavy duty tape.

When can I expect the payment check to arrive?

Absolute will mail your organization a check within 3-4 days of when we receive your shipment of phones.

Are phone donations tax deductible?

The value of the phones qualifies as a tax deductible donation. Please contact your personal tax professional to make sure that this is applicable to you.