We recommend the best products through an independent review process, and advertisers do not influence our picks. We may receive compensation if you visit partners we recommend. Read our advertiser disclosure for more info.
Unexpected cellphone repairs or replacements can leave you on the hook for several hundred dollars, but the right cellphone insurance policy can help make it more affordable. When you purchase a policy from one of the best cellphone insurance providers, you'll pay a monthly or annual premium, typically between $5 and $20 a month, and if the device is damaged, lost, or stolen, you can repair or replace it for a fraction of the market value by paying a deductible.
Many insurance policies offer similar coverage, but it’s important to thoroughly review each provider and policy before making a decision. The best policies are cost-effective, with low deductibles, making it easy to file a claim. Additional factors like bundling discounts, multi-device options, and customer reviews can also be useful when selecting a provider. Read on to determine which provider best fits your needs.
Best Cellphone Insurance Providers of 2023
- Best Overall: Asurion
- Best for Families: SquareTrade
- Best for iPhones: AppleCare+
- Best for Samsung Phones: Samsung Care+
- Best for Policy Budget: AKKO
- Best for Options: Progressive
Best Overall : Asurion
:fill(transparent):max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/asurion-0bd2ba2b8b964c58b14e1f24378ee44d.jpg)
Asurion
- Deductible: $29 to $499
- Average monthly premium: $12 to $15 per month (single device) $45 per month (multiple devices)
- Available policies: Single device, multiple devices
We chose Asurion as our best overall provider because of its affordable and comprehensive coverage, with an easy claim process.
Works directly with several top wireless providers
Easy claims process
Robust coverage that includes loss
Higher deductibles for some devices
Doesn’t offer the lowest premiums on the market
Many cellphone providers allow customers to add insurance to their monthly bill, and Verizon, AT&T, USCellular, or Sprint customers have direct access to Asurion’s coverage. This coverage is affordable, the claims process is easy, and customers are generally satisfied with their experience. These factors make Asurion the best overall cellphone insurance provider on our list.
Asurion policyholders are covered if their device is lost, stolen, or damaged (e.g., broken screens and liquid damage). Plans also cover device defects, as well as some failures and device issues linked to normal wear and tear, like dust accumulation or internal heat and humidity problems.
The Asurion online claims portal makes it easy to submit a claim, and policyholders can typically expect a replacement phone to arrive via mail in as little as 24 hours. Not all damaged devices require a replacement, however. Customers with a cracked screen or those who want to work directly with a technician can take their issue to one of Asurion's more than 650 stores, which are being rebranded as Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions. For added convenience, they can also schedule a home or office visit with an Asurion technician. With so many repair options, it’s easy for customers to find one that works best.
Plans & Pricing
Purchasing options vary by cell provider, device type (e.g., smartphones and watches), and plan. Deductibles for replacement phones also vary by device, with more expensive or newer phones carrying larger deductibles. Screen repairs, which often don’t require a replacement phone, are more affordable.
Best for Families : SquareTrade
:fill(transparent):max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SquareTrade-bb8e0242bfe04cf2a979740224681435.jpg)
SquareTrade
- Deductible: $25-149
- Average monthly premium: $8.99 to $19.99 per month
- Available policies: Single plan, family plan
SquareTrade’s affordable rates, multi-device policies, and higher annual claim allowances make this provider the best option for families.
Coverage for all phones regardless of make, model, or age
Four to eight claims allowed per year
Competitive rates for family plan
Mail-in repairs are slow
Deductible may be higher for older phones
SquareTrade is backed by Allstate and is marketed as one of the most affordable cellphone insurance plans available. It offers low-cost, multi-device plans with more claim allowances than many other insurance providers. Combined, these factors make SquareTrade our choice for cellphone insurance that can cover the whole family.
SquareTrade insurance covers all cellphone makes and models regardless of carrier or age. Plans cover cracked screens, touchscreen failures, liquid damage, speak/audio failure, battery failure, and charging port failure.
Coverage includes on-premise (e.g., in the home, office, a coffee shop, etc.), same-day repairs, and repairs made at a local repair shop. Or, if preferred, the client can also mail in the phone for repairs, a process that typically takes two to five days.
While many cellphone insurance providers limit annual claims to two per plan, SquareTrade allows for up to four claims per year per individual device plan. Family plans allow for up to eight claims per year, which can be particularly helpful for families with multiple devices, both cellular and otherwise.
Plans & Pricing
SquareTrade premiums start at $8.99 a month for a single device, but customers can insure multiple devices for just $19.99 a month. Deductibles are a flat $25-149.
SquareTrade also offers an upgrade ($12.99 per month) that adds additional benefits like premium tech support, Allstate Roadside Assistance, and identity theft recovery.
Best for iPhones : AppleCare+
:fill(transparent):max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Apple_Care-59f6e389ebfa434eb130f4d0c0945f70.jpg)
AppleCare+
- Deductible: $29 to $149
- Average monthly premium: $9.99 per month
- Available policies: AppleCare+, AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss
AppleCare+ provides affordable coverage that is specific to iPhone and other Apple devices, making it the best option for iPhone users.
Certified Apple parts and technicians
Theft and loss policy options
Low premiums
Only covers Apple devices
Additional application steps if starting a policy 60 or more days after initial iPhone purchase
A new iPhone can easily cost close to $1,000, which can make insurance a smart investment. While most cellphone insurance providers will happily cover iPhones, customers looking for the best insurance may want to go straight to the source. AppleCare+ makes it easy to protect a phone and get ongoing support from experts who understand the hardware, operating system, and applications that make Apple products unique. That’s why we’ve selected AppleCare+ as the best option for iPhone users.
AppleCare offers two different policies: AppleCare+ and AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss. Both policies cover up to two incidents of accidental damage protection annually and offer coverage if a battery retains 80% or less of its original charging capacity. AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss provides additional coverage if the device is lost or stolen.
An AppleCare+ account also gives 24/7 priority access to Apple experts via phone or chat, onsite services (e.g., screen repairs), express replacement services, and mail-in repair options with prepaid shipping. AppleCare+ customers can also take their device to any Apple Store or Apple Authorized service provider for in-person repairs and troubleshooting.
For customers considering AppleCare+, it’s best to add the policy within 60 days of purchasing the iPhone. If that window has closed, a visit to an Apple Store may be required to add a policy.
Plans & Pricing
Prices vary based on the iPhone model the customer wishes to insure. AppleCare+ insurance on new models typically costs $9.99 per month or $199 for a fixed term of two years. AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss will run about $11.49 per month.
Deductibles vary based on the incident type. The deductible for screen repairs is $29, while other types of damage typically result in a $99 deductible. If the phone is lost or stolen, expect a $149 deductible.
Best for Samsung Phones : Samsung Care+
:fill(transparent):max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Samsung_Care_Plus-fe2a933f7da84a8dbf0cbd6193ca0102.jpg)
Samsung Care+
- Deductible: $0 to $99
- Average monthly premium: $3.99 to $19.99 per month
- Available policies: Varies by device
Samsung Care+ offers expert support and a $0 deductible for mechanical breakdowns, making it a great option for Samsung phone owners.
Expert Samsung support
Low premiums for some devices
$0 deductible for mechanical breakdown claims
High premiums for some devices
Only for Samsung users
Samsung has been a leader in cellphone technology, so it makes sense that it also offers an insurance product to cover its phones. Like AppleCare+, Samsung Care+ leverages the expertise of Samsung technicians to offer affordable and reliable repairs for Samsung users. This makes Samsung Care+ the best provider for Samsung users.
Samsung Care+ insurance policies cover accidental damage, liquid spills, and screen cracks. Policyholders also get an extended warranty that protects against mechanical and electrical breakdowns after the 12-month manufacturer warranty expires.
Samsung Care+ customers can take advantage of 24/7 support, and if a phone needs repairs, they can rest assured that they'll receive original Samsung parts and that a Samsung expert will repair their phone.
Plans & Pricing
The prices of Samsung Care+ policies fill a range, depending on the device being insured. Deductible costs depend on the reason for service (e.g., accidental damage or a screen repair).
Best for Policy Budget : AKKO
:fill(transparent):max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Akko-8ebffd49a71649bc9d41efdc1f4cd4e3.jpg)
AKKO
- Deductible: $29 to $99
- Average monthly premium: $6–$12 per month (single device); $12–$15 (multiple devices)
- Available policies: Phone Only, Everything Protected
AKKO’s unique approach to cellphone insurance lets policyholders take advantage of some of the lowest premiums in the industry, making it the best provider for cellphone owners on a budget.
Low monthly premiums
Coverage can include other electronic devices
Multi-policy discounts
Student discounts
Lost phones have limitations in coverage
Replacement value is determined by AKKO
AKKO was started in 2019, making it relatively new to the scene, but it's garnered attention for consistently affordable cellphone insurance plans. With coverage options starting as low as $5 a month, AKKO is one of the best providers for anyone on a budget.
One thing that sets AKKO apart from other insurance providers is how it manages claims. Instead of automatically receiving a replacement device, AKKO will give customers cash based on the replacement value of the device minus the deductible. Similarly, if they need to have their phone repaired, AKKO will either send the cash value of the repairs or pay the repair shop directly.
AKKO offers two plans: The Phone Only plan and the Everything Protected plan. Both plans offer basic phone protection, which includes cracked screens, liquid damage, accidental damage (e.g., drops), theft and vandalism, and damages that result from natural disasters (e.g., fire, flood, etc.).
AKKO’s Everything Protected plan extends coverage to up to 25 other electrical items, including any tablets, laptops, and video games that belong to the policyholder.
Plans & Pricing
AKKO’s Phone Only plan starts at $6 to $12 per month, or $5 to $11 a month if the customer pays for the entire year upfront. Deductibles vary based on the make, model, and year of your phone. Repair deductibles typically range from $29 to $75, and replacement deductibles range from $75 to $99.
The Everything Protected option runs from $12 to $15 per month or $120 to $168 when paid for the year. Like the Phone Only plan, deductibles typically range from $29 to $75 for repairs and $75 to $99 for replacements. For students, however, the deductible drops to $49.
Though customers can’t insure more than one cellphone per plan, they can save 5% to 15% when they bundle more than one policy.
Best for Options : Progressive
- Deductible: $75
- Average monthly premium: $8 to $10 per month
- Available policies: Single device, multiple devices
Progressive lets cellphone insurance customers customize their policy based on device type, coverage amount, and policy term, making this well-known insurer a great provider for customers who want options.
Multi-device plans
Customizable coverage
Discount for Progressive customers
Full payment required for two- and three-year policies
Does not cover manufacturer defects
Progressive is widely known for its homeowners and auto policies, but it also has a device protection plan that covers smartphones, laptops, tablets, gaming systems, and more. The coverage is highly customizable and offers affordable multi-device plans that make Progressive perfect for anyone looking for a policy with plenty of options.
Progressive’s phone and device insurance policies cover theft and damages, including water damage; drops and accidental damage; cracked screens; and fire, flood, and natural disaster-related damages. Coverage begins as soon as the policy starts, regardless of how old the phone is. Progressive’s device protection plan does not include manufacturer defects or problems that stem from normal wear and tear.
As a bonus, customers can bundle several device protection policies, which means they can easily insure every phone in the family as well as any additional devices like video games, laptops, and more.
Plans & Pricing
Protection plans are highly customizable, but customers can typically secure basic coverage for as little as $8 to $10 a month per device with a $75 deductible, and existing Progressive customers can save 5% on their premium.
While selecting coverage, customers have the option to select the coverage amount ($199 to $1,599) and policy term (one to three years) for each device. They can save more by selecting the two- or three-year policy option, though they’ll need to pay for the plan in full. If the customer prefers monthly payments, they’ll likely need to select the one-year policy option.
Final Verdict
Cellphone insurance can help customers protect their devices and avoid costly repairs or replacements. In some cases, finding the right insurance provider may be as easy as signing up for insurance through a wireless provider or the device manufacturer. That’s true for providers like Asurion, AppleCare+, and Samsung Care+.
Another great place where customers can find coverage is through their home or auto insurance provider. Both Progressive and AllState (SquareTrade) have cellphone insurance plans that offer competitive premiums and deductibles—perhaps unlocking existing customer savings. If neither of those options is ideal, new and alternative providers like AKKO may provide suitable coverage at affordable rates.
Compare the Best Cellphone Insurance
Company | Deductible | Average Monthly Premium | Types of Phones Covered | Available Policies |
---|---|---|---|---|
Asurion
Best Overall |
$29 to $499 | $12 to $15 per month (single device) $45 per month (multiple devices) | Various | Single device, multiple devices |
SquareTrade
Best for Families |
$25-149 | $8.99 to $19.99 per month | Various | Single plan, family plan |
AppleCare+
Best for iPhones |
$29 to $149 | $9.99 per month | iPhones | AppleCare+, AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss |
Samsung Care+
Best for Samsung Phones |
$0 to $99 | $3.99 to $19.99 per month | Samsung | Varies by device |
AKKO
Best for Policy Budget |
$29 to $99 | $6 to $12 per month (single device) $12 - $15 (multiple devices) | Various | Phone Only, Everything Protected |
Progressive
Best for Options |
$75 | $8 to $10 per month | Various | Single device, multiple devices |
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Why Get a Protection Plan for a Cell Phone?
Cellphone insurance covers different types of damage that may impair or prevent a phone from working. Though coverage can vary based on the provider, as well as the age of and type of phone, many policies include the following:
- Accidental damage (e.g., drops)
- Liquid damage (e.g., spills or submersion)
- Mechanical issues
- Theft and sometimes loss
-
How Much Is Cell Phone Insurance on Average?
The cost of cellphone insurance can vary based on the make, model, and age of the phone as well as the insurance provider you select. Generally, policies are available for anywhere from $5 to $20 a month, with most falling squarely in the middle.
-
Is Cell Phone Insurance Worth the Cost?
Cell phone insurance may be a worthwhile expense if you frequently damage or lose your phone or if you can’t afford the upfront costs associated with repairs or device replacements. This is particularly true for smartphones, which can cost several hundred dollars to replace.
Cellphone insurance may also make sense if you’re financing a phone and would need to pay off the damaged phone while also purchasing a new one.
-
Can You Get Cell Phone Insurance After Purchase?
Yes, although, you may need to go through some additional steps. For instance, AppleCare+ customers can insure their iPhones within 60 days of purchase. After that point, customers must take their phone to an Apple retail location for an inspection before they can purchase a policy.
Methodology
We researched 11 companies offering cellphone insurance and evaluated each insurer based on factors such as cost, coverage, policy options, and customer feedback. First, we considered what each policy covered, with a focus on policies that covered accidental damage, liquid spills/submersion, and theft, at a minimum. Then we reviewed the premiums and deductibles to find the most affordable and comprehensive policies. Finally, we identified any additional benefits or features to match each provider with a specific customer profile.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-1356378445-816dca1e9b6142a8831ce52887256d4c.jpg)