Why Cell Phone Insurance?
Once primarily considered a voice communications tool, the evolution of cell phones has been fast and significant. Today, most of the high-end models are popularly referred to as "smart phones" and it's no surprise since they pack in a wide variety of productivity tools and entertainment and multimedia options as well, along with the standard fare. Since their prices have also increased proportionately, it is advisable that you safeguard your smart phone with a cell phone insurance policy. For cell phones up to $200, you may not necessarily require cell phone insurance, but for anything that costs more than that, it would always be wise to choose cell phone insurance.
Mostly available for $5 to $7 per month, cell phone insurance may be relatively cheaper in comparison to other types of insurance policies such as healthcare. However, before you actually pick one, it is necessary that you thoroughly read the details of the policy, paying special attention to terms and conditions mentioned in the fine print. The first thing you need to find out is the type of cover being provided by the insurer. Some policies only cover theft whereas others may also provide for accidental loss of your cell phone and damage due to factors beyond your control. Cell phone insurance that covers theft may require you to furnish a police report. So, in case of theft, have it ready along with other documents when filing your cell phone insurance claim.
Another important thing you need to look into is the type of replacement being offered and the time required for making the replacement cell phone available to you. Most insurers will guarantee to provide the same model as replacement, but if you read the fine print, you may find terms such as "Subject to availability". What this means is that the insurer is not bound to provide you the same model you might have lost. However, it is advisable that you do not worry too much about this issue because it is general industry practice and not something intended to cheat customers. If you have any doubts, you can ask your insurer about cell phone models that will be made available to you as replacement in case you lose your existing cell phone.
You also need to ask your insurer about the average time required to process your cell phone insurance claim. If you use your cell phone as more of an office workstation, then you might really get into trouble if the insurer does not process your request in less than a week. Also make sure that the insurer delivers new cell phones as replacements and not refurbished or used ones. In relation to the cost of your cell phone, you might be paying good money as insurance premium. As such, there is no reason as to why you should settle down for used or refurbished cell phones as replacements.
In a cell phone insurance deal, you also have to play your part, which is to take proper care of your cell phone and avoid situations that might result in theft or damage. Your cell phone insurance claim will be admitted only when investigators are satisfied with your side of the story. As such, make sure that you have all the evidences and documents ready when making your cell phone insurance claim. If you follow prescribed guidelines, you will have your replacement cell phone in no time.