[
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "If%20I%20am%20upgrading%20a%20phone%20from%20Boost%20Mobile%2C%20do%20I%20need%20to%20returnt%20he%20old%20phone%3F"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "It depends on *how* you're upgrading with Boost Mobile\u2014specifically, whether you\u2019re trading in your old phone as part of the upgrade, and what your plan\u2019s terms are. Here are a few scenarios and what they mean for your old device:\n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udd04 1. Upgrading with a Trade-In (or through the Infinite Access Program)\n\nIf you\u2019re using **Boost Mobile\u2019s trade-in program** or upgrading through the **Infinite Access plan**, then yes\u2014you\u2019ll need to send your old phone back under certain conditions. Here\u2019s how it works:\n\n- **Trade-in Program**: When you pick a new phone and choose the trade-in option, Boost sends a trade-in kit along with the new phone. You\u2019re expected to ship your old device (after wiping it clean) back to Boost within **30 days**. If the phone is in good shape and matches what you described, you\u2019ll get account credit. If it\u2019s damaged, your credit might be reduced or the trade-in rejected. ([help.boostmobile.com](https://help.boostmobile.com/docs/web-trade-ins?utm_source=openai))\n\n- **Infinite Access Annual Upgrade** (for Galaxy Series phones): Under the Infinite Access plan, if you want to take the annual upgrade you\u2019re eligible for, you must **trade in the phone you have under that plan** and return a phone with the same IMEI in acceptable condition. If you don\u2019t return the old phone, Boost will charge you the **remaining balance** on that device. ([boostmobile.com](https://www.boostmobile.com/content/dam/harmony/us/en/docs/InfiniteAccessforGalaxyTerms5.13.2026.pdf?utm_source=openai))\n\n---\n\n## \u2699\ufe0f 2. Buying a New Phone Without a Trade-In\n\nIf you simply want a new phone without doing a trade-in, then **no**, you generally do *not* have to return the old one. You can keep using your old phone if it\u2019s unlocked and compatible (or as a backup, sell it, donate it, etc.). There\u2019s no requirement to send it back in this scenario. However, always check your specific financing agreement or offer terms in case there\u2019s a clause that requires a return or payment of remaining balances. ([boostmobile.com](https://www.boostmobile.com/content/dam/harmony/us/en/docs/InfiniteAccessforGalaxyTerms5.13.2026.pdf?utm_source=openai))\n\n---\n\n## \u26a0\ufe0f Other Things to Watch Out For\n\n- **Condition & Lock Status**: If Boost agrees to accept your old device, it usually must be in good working condition. For Apple devices, for example, you\u2019ll need to turn off things like **Find My iPhone** and remove activation locks. ([help.boostmobile.com](https://help.boostmobile.com/docs/upgrade?utm_source=openai))\n\n- **Timeline**: Boost sets deadlines. For trade-ins, you typically have **30 days** from when the new device ships to send in your old one. Exceeding that window may reduce or invalidate your credit. ([help.boostmobile.com](https://help.boostmobile.com/docs/web-trade-ins?utm_source=openai))\n\n- **Outstanding Balances**: If the old phone was financed under a contract or plan and you don\u2019t return it as required (for example under Infinite Access), you may owe the remaining finance balance. ([boostmobile.com](https://www.boostmobile.com/content/dam/harmony/us/en/docs/InfiniteAccessforGalaxyTerms5.13.2026.pdf?utm_source=openai))\n\n---\n\nIf you tell me **which upgrade route** you're taking (trade-in? Infinite Access? Buying without trading in?) I can check the specific terms for your case so you\u2019re sure what you\u2019ll need to do."
    }
]