Phone Insurance: How It Works, Coverage & If It's Worth It
Guide to cell phone insurance and AT&T Protect AdvantageSM
In this article, you’ll learn:
- What is AT&T Protect Advantage?
- How does AT&T Protect Advantage work?
- Is phone insurance worth it?
- What does AT&T Protect Advantage cover?
- How much does AT&T Protect Advantage cost?
- Does AT&T Protect Advantage cover a lost phone?
- Does AT&T Protect Advantage cover theft?
- Does AT&T Protect Advantage cover phone damage from drops?
- Does AT&T Protect Advantage cover water damage and spills?
- AT&T Protect Advantage vs. AT&T HomeTech Protection
What is AT&T Protect Advantage?
AT&T Protect Advantage is AT&T’s protection program for cell phones, tablets, and smartwatches. The program is offered in partnership with Asurion. Sometimes called “phone insurance,” it offers much more than that. It protects your device before it’s ever lost, stolen, or broken. And, if you do need a repair or replacement device, AT&T Protect Advantage has you covered.
With Protect Advantage, you can choose to protect one device with the Protect Advantage plan, or you can choose Protect Advantage Multi-Device to protect the eligible devices on your account.
If you choose not to enroll in Protect Advantage or another device protection program, you won’t have any coverage if your device is accidentally damaged, lost, or stolen.
How does AT&T Protect Advantage work?
AT&T Protect Advantage covers you if your device is lost, stolen, or broken.
You can sign up for Protect Advantage at two times:
- Within 30 days of purchasing your device
- During open enrollment periods
Each Protect Advantage plan includes an unlimited number of claims,1 $0 unlimited screen and back glass repairs,2 same-day replacement and setup,3 unlimited battery replacements,4 and ProTech expert support.
1Maximum device value of $3,500 per claim.
2Unlimited Screen and Back Glass Repairs are available in select areas. Newly launched device models may not be eligible for repair. Visit https://www.asurion.com/claims/att/ or call 888.562.8662 to check current eligibility. Same-day repair option depends on claim approval time, parts and technician availability. Eligible devices and available areas are both subject to change at any time. Repairs will be available for certain devices, in select locations, which are subject to change at any time.
3Available for select devices in select areas and is subject to parts and technician availability. Claims must be filed and approved by 4 p.m. (local time). Eligibility is determined at time of claim approval and is contingent on certain criteria. Claims may be fulfilled with new or AT&T Certified Pre-Owned equipment of the same model or other models of like kind and quality and may be previously opened, used, refurbished or remanufactured, and/or may contain original or nonoriginal replacement parts. Colors, features and accessory compatibility are not guaranteed.
4Subject to eligible wireless phones outside of manufacturer's warranty period that power on but fail to hold an adequate charge after ProTech diagnostic testing. Available for select devices in select areas. Battery replacements come with a 60-day limited warranty.
5Unlimited photo and video storage: Video size limitations may apply.
Is phone insurance worth it?
The cost of buying a new smartphone outright can easily be more than $1,000. If you have to replace your cell phone unexpectedly, the out-of-pocket cost can be a big burden. For many people, a device protection plan is worthwhile. If your phone gets lost, stolen, or broken, you’re covered (limitations apply).
Some people may feel they don’t need device protection. That may be the case if:
- Your phone is paid off, and you have money saved for unexpected expenses.
- You have a backup device, so being without a phone for a while would be okay.
- You’re tech savvy and can manage a new device activation and data transfer on your own.
Even if you meet these criteria, you might still find device protection gives you peace of mind.
What does AT&T Protect Advantage include?
AT&T Protect Advantage—a protection program for cell phones, tablets and smartwatches—offers two plans. If your device is lost, stolen or broken, you’re covered.
Each Protect Advantage plan includes:
- Unlimited claims¹
- $0 unlimited screen and back glass repairs²
- Same-day replacement and setup³
- Unlimited battery replacements⁴
- Access to ProTech expert support
With these benefits, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your devices are protected every step of the way.
1Maximum device value of $3,500 per claim.
2Unlimited Screen and Back Glass Repairs are available in select areas. Newly launched device models may not be eligible for repair. Visit https://www.asurion.com/claims/att/ or call 888.562.8662 to check current eligibility. Same-day repair option depends on claim approval time, parts and technician availability. Eligible devices and available areas are both subject to change at any time. Repairs will be available for certain devices, in select locations, which are subject to change at any time.
3Available for select devices in select areas and is subject to parts and technician availability. Claims must be filed and approved by 4 p.m. (local time). Eligibility is determined at time of claim approval and is contingent on certain criteria. Claims may be fulfilled with new or AT&T Certified Pre-Owned equipment of the same model or other models of like kind and quality and may be previously opened, used, refurbished or remanufactured, and/or may contain original or nonoriginal replacement parts. Colors, features and accessory compatibility are not guaranteed.
4Subject to eligible wireless phones outside of manufacturer's warranty period that power on but fail to hold an adequate charge after ProTech diagnostic testing. Available for select devices in select areas. Battery replacements come with a 60-day limited warranty.
5Unlimited photo and video storage: Video size limitations may apply.
Included with AT&T Protect Advantage
Get live access to ProTech expert support
Plus, with 24/7 access to online tools and services, you can:
- File and track claims
- Optimize your phone services
- Schedule store services
ProTech expert support is available seven days a week: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 12 a.m. ET; Saturday - Sunday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. ET.
How much does AT&T Protect Advantage cost?
AT&T offers two different device protection plans—Protect Advantage and Protect Advantage Multi-Device.
Does AT&T Protect Advantage cover a lost phone?
Yes, AT&T Protect Advantage provides coverage for your device in case of loss, theft, or accidental damage. You can think of it as a safety net that helps prevent having to pay the full amount for phone repairs or a replacement.
Does AT&T Protect Advantage cover theft?
Good news—AT&T Protect Advantage has you covered if your phone is stolen. If you’re already enrolled, file a claim to get a replacement device.
Does AT&T Protect Advantage cover phone damage from drops and falls?
Yes, AT&T Protect Advantage covers accidental damage to your device from drops and falls.
Does AT&T Protect Advantage cover water damage and spills?
Dropped your phone in the toilet? Don’t flush away your savings! With AT&T Protect Advantage, water damage and spills are covered, so you’re protected when accidents happen.
What’s not covered by AT&T Protect Advantage?
While AT&T Protect Advantage covers your device if it’s lost, stolen, or broken, there are some things it doesn’t cover. For complete coverage details, visit Asurion’s site.
What’s the difference between AT&T Protect Advantage and AT&T HomeTech Protection?
AT&T Protect Advantage is AT&T’s protection program for cell phones, tablets, and smartwatches. The program is provided in partnership with Asurion.
AT&T HomeTech Protection is another protection program provided by AT&T in partnership with Asurion. But, unlike AT&T Protect Advantage, HomeTech Protection covers only your home tech devices, no matter where you bought them.* It doesn’t cover devices with a dedicated phone number.
*This plan does not cover smartphones and most devices connected to a data plan. The plan excludes coverage for products that are not owned by you or that are leased or rented, including routers or modems leased from your internet service provider. PCs eligible for coverage under this plan are those equipped with a Windows Operating System version Windows 8 or newer or Android version 1.6 or newer and Apple computers which are equipped with an Apple operating system version OS X (10) or newer or Chrome OS. This plan does not cover loss or theft.
AT&T HomeTech Protection | AT&T Protect AdvantageSM |
|---|---|
Protection program for home electronics—TVs, gaming consoles, laptops, printers, headsets, Wi-Fi only smartwatches and tablets, smart home devices and more | Protection program for cell phones, tablets and smartwatches |
Sign up any time, all year round | Sign up within 30 days of purchasing your device, or during an open enrollment period |
1 plan for your home tech | 2 plans for your connected devices—Protect Advantage and Protect Advantage Multi-Device |
Aggregate $5,000 claim limit per household per 12-month period ($2,000 single claim limit) | Maximum device value of $3,500 per claim |
How to choose the best protection plans for you
Choosing the best plan to protect your cell phone and other devices can be confusing. Protect Advantage covers one device, while Protect Advantage Multi-Device offers protection for eligible devices on your account. Let’s break down some common scenarios:
A single person may benefit from signing up for the AT&T Protect Advantage if they have the following:
- An iPhone and a Wi-Fi-only iPad
- Several smart home devices in their home, including a thermostat and a laptop
They may also get the AT&T HomeTech Protection plan. The iPhone would be covered under the Protect Advantage plan, while all the other devices would be protected under the HomeTech Protection plan.
If you sign up for AT&T Protect Advantage, the protected device must be connected to AT&T’s wireless network and have an assigned phone number. If you sign up for Protect Advantage Multi-Device, as long as the first protected device is connected to AT&T’s wireless network, you can choose to protect tablets not connected to the AT&T wireless network.
A family of four would benefit from the AT&T Protect Advantage Multi-Device plan, along with the AT&T HomeTech Protection plan if they have the following:
- At least one smartphone
- At least one smartwatch with cellular connectivity
- At least one cellular-connected tablet
- Several home tech devices
When you sign up for AT&T Protect Advantage Multi-Device, you only need to identify the first covered device (and it needs to be connected to the AT&T Wireless network). You won’t be required to identify the other devices you want to cover until you need to make a claim. These devices can belong to anyone on your plan. Once you make a claim on a second device, that device will remain covered for twelve months, but you’ll still have the option to choose the remaining two devices you want to cover when it’s time to make another claim. This gives you flexibility to get the coverage you need on your account.
Learn more about how AT&T Protect Advantage and HomeTech Protection work togetherIs Asurion part of AT&T?
Asurion is an independent company from AT&T that provides insurance services. Asurion partnered with AT&T to offer AT&T customers fully rounded cell phone protection and coverage. While AT&T offers insurance plans, Asurion provides coverage and handles claims. If a customer with the AT&T Protect Advantage plan needs to make a claim, it would be processed and fulfilled by Asurion.
If you're looking to fix a cracked screen or file a claim for theft, AT&T and Asurion have got you covered.
How much is the insurance deductible for AT&T Protect Advantage?
The deductible for AT&T insurance can vary depending on the specific device and the selected AT&T protection plan. The deductible estimates are calculated based on the specific device and protection for a single line.
To determine the estimated deductible or claim service fee in advance, add your information in the tool's dedicated fields, as seen in the image. Note that you'll need to start a claim for a precise quote and confirm repair eligibility.
Remember, it's always a good idea to check the specific terms and conditions of your plan for the most accurate information.
How do I contact Asurion AT&T and file a claim?
If you have AT&T Protect Advantage, and your device’s screen cracks, or it stops working due to contact with liquid, AT&T and Asurion have your back. File a claim with Asurion through its dedicated claim page for AT&T customers. And the best part? You’ll have your device or a replacement in hand as soon as the same day.
Asurion also has a dedicated phone number for AT&T customers for filing claims. Just call 888.562.8662 for a seamless claim process.
For technical difficulties with your device, visit the Asurion claim page to use the ProTech support live chat. Expert agents are available to help troubleshoot device issues.
What happens when you file a claim with Asurion?
Once you begin filing a claim, you'll be asked a few questions to determine what's wrong with your device. Next, based on your answers, you'll receive repair or replacement options to choose from. Lastly, you can track your claim to know when to expect to receive your replacement device.
Can you add insurance to an AT&T cell phone anytime?
You have several opportunities to add Protect Advantage insurance to your plan:
- Within 30 days of purchasing your new device
- During one of the open enrollment periods, which occurs twice a year
So, don't forget to periodically check att.com to learn about a new upcoming open enrollment period.
What’s the waiting period for AT&T insurance?
When you subscribe to AT&T Protect Advantage, coverage begins straight away, without any waiting period post-enrollment. However, the Protect Advantage Multi-Device plan works a little differently. For this plan, non-connected tablets have a waiting period. Specifically, a 30-day period must pass after enrollment before these devices are covered.
Other tips to protect your cell phone
Protecting your cell phone from accidental damage and theft can save you some hassle. Here are some simple steps you can take to safeguard your device:
- Buy a sturdy cell phone case to prevent cracks.
- Invest in a screen protector to guard against scratches.
- Consider a phone grip to reduce the risk of drops.
In addition to physical protection, be mindful of your surroundings, especially in high-crime areas where phone theft is more common. If you’re traveling abroad, it’s smart to learn tips to prevent being a victim of cell phone theft.
Enrollment is only available within the first 30 days of a new activation or device upgrade, or during an Open Enrollment period. Device must be in good working order at time of enrollment. You can switch your already-enrolled number to a different plan at any time. Protect Advantage is $16, $19, or $25 per month per mobile number enrolled depending on device tier. Protect Advantage Multi-Device is $50 per month and covers up to 4 eligible devices. Limitations and exclusions apply. See terms and conditions for more information.
1Maximum device value of $3,500 per claim.
2Unlimited Number of Screen and Back Glass Repairs: Select devices are eligible for repair. Visit phoneclaim.com/att for current list of eligible devices. Repairs are available in select locations, based upon parts and technician availability, and other criteria. If a device requires multiple types of repair, for example cracked screen and back glass repair, the device must qualify as an eligible device for each of the needed repairs, or the device will be replaced (replacement deductible/service fee applies). Same day repair option depends upon claim approval time, part and technician availability. Repairs are performed by an Asurion-certified technician and come with a 12-month limited warranty. Repairs may use new or refurbished parts; may contain original or non-original manufacturer parts; and may void the manufacturer warranty.
3Same Day Replacement: Available for select devices in select areas and is subject to parts and technician availability. For Same Day Delivery, claims must be filed and approved by 4 pm. For Same Day Pickup, claims must be filed and approved by 5 pm. Eligibility is determined at time of claim approval and is contingent on certain criteria.
4Unlimited Eligible Battery Replacements: Available for eligible wireless phones outside of manufacturer’s warranty period that power on but fail to hold an adequate charge after ProTech diagnostic testing. Available for select devices in select areas.
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