Today, smartphones do more than just make phone calls. We use them to check email, play games, listen to music, take pictures, browse the web, get directions, and more. These devices have become an integral part of our daily lives. As such, there are many reasons to get cell phone insurance and protect these important investments.
Cell Phone Insurance Covers Scenarios That Warranties Don’t
While a warranty will cover problems such as software defects and mechanical failures, it won’t cover other issues like user damage, loss, or theft. Unfortunately, cell phone theft is a growing problem and it all comes down to how we typically use our phones. Many people are guilty of walking along the streets with their phones out and only paying attention to what’s on their screen. This is just like walking down the sidewalk holding out $500 in cash. In fact, there were around 1.2 million smartphones stolen in the United States in 2013.
Cell Phone Insurance Is Affordable
Depending on the type of smartphone you have, cell phone insurance will usually cost you between $6 and $12 a month. You’ll also have to pay a deductible that will also depend on the type of phone you have. This will cost you between $50 and $200. With this coverage, you can get your smartphone replaced if anything happens to it, regardless of whether it’s your fault or not.
Filing a Claim Is Very Easy
If something happens to your phone, making a claim is simple. All you have to do is go online or make a call to your insurance company and give them details about your phone and the incident that is causing you to make a claim. Once your insurance company has this information, it only takes a few minutes to process your claim. After the claim is approved, you can usually get a replacement phone shipped to you in just a few days or you can even pick up a new phone at designated stores.
When you’re looking for an insurance company, research their claims process and learn about their customer service. For example, an Assurant review shows that this company is easy to work with and claims are filed quickly. This is important for people who need a replacement phone as soon as possible.
Replacing a Cell Phone Is Expensive
Signing a contract with your cell phone carrier helps bring your cost of a new smartphone from around $600 down to about $100. Unfortunately, nearly one-third of smartphone owners have damaged or lost their phones. Even worse, most smartphones were destroyed or damaged within the first ten weeks of ownership. This means whether your phone falls in the toilet or you drop it on the pavement and crack the screen, you’re on the hook for buying a new phone out of pocket.
If you’re considering whether you need cell phone insurance, keep in mind what the average plan covers, how much it usually costs per month, and the benefits of having insurance.
