Mobile Phone Insurance
Protection for your smartphone against damage, loss, and theft.
Typical cost: $8 – $20 per month
What Is Mobile Phone Insurance?
Mobile phone insurance protects your smartphone investment by covering repair or replacement costs when your device is damaged, lost, or stolen. With flagship phones costing $1,000 or more, a cracked screen or water damage without coverage can be a costly surprise.
Coverage Options
You can get mobile phone insurance through your wireless carrier, device manufacturer (like AppleCare+), credit card benefits, standalone insurers, or your homeowners/renters insurance. Each option has different pricing, deductibles, and coverage terms.
Is It Worth It?
Mobile phone insurance makes sense for expensive flagship devices, clumsy users, or those without emergency savings for a replacement. For older or budget phones, self-insuring by setting aside money may be more cost-effective than paying ongoing premiums.
What's covered
Accidental Damage
Covers cracked screens, water damage, and other physical damage from drops and accidents.
Theft Protection
Replaces your phone if it is stolen, typically requiring a police report.
Loss Coverage
Some plans cover lost phones, though this is often excluded or has higher deductibles.
Mechanical Breakdown
Covers hardware failures after the manufacturer warranty expires.
Battery Replacement
Some plans include battery replacement when capacity degrades significantly.
Worldwide Coverage
Protection that travels with you for international trips.
Pros and cons
Advantages
- Protects expensive flagship smartphone investments
- Lower deductibles than full device replacement cost
- Convenient claims process through carrier or manufacturer
- AppleCare+ includes technical support
- Some plans offer same-day screen repairs
- Peace of mind for accident-prone users
Considerations
- Monthly premiums add up over time
- Deductibles of $29-$275 per claim depending on plan and damage
- Replacement devices may be refurbished, not new
- Claims limits may restrict number of replacements per year
- Pre-existing damage not covered
- Lost phone coverage often excluded or limited
Frequently asked questions
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