Amazon Protection Plan 2023 (What‘s Covered, Claims + More)
Hey friend! Shopping online at Amazon has opened up a world of possibilities. But when you’re buying expensive tech gadgets, appliances, and other big-ticket items, accidents happen. Damage from drops or spills. Theft if you’re traveling with your laptop or phone. Mechanical breakdowns after the manufacturer’s warranty runs out.
You don’t want to be stuck paying hundreds for repairs or full price for a replacement if something happens to your purchase. But is an Amazon protection plan worth it for that peace of mind?
I’ve done the research to break down exactly what Amazon protection plans cover, how claims work, what they cost, and whether the protection is worth it for you. Let’s dive in!
What are Amazon Protection Plans?
Amazon protection plans provide extended warranty coverage for many products bought on Amazon against:
- Accidental damage from handling (drops, spills, cracks, etc)
- Theft or loss
- Mechanical breakdown after the manufacturer’s warranty ends
Plans vary based on the product type and coverage tier selected. You can purchase protection during checkout or within 30 days of your order.
Coverage kicks in after any manufacturer warranty expires. For new items, that‘s usually 1-2 years from purchase before Amazon‘s plan coverage starts.
Let’s look at what kind of products are eligible for protection and what damages or issues Amazon plans actually cover.
What Products Can You Get Protection Plans For on Amazon?
Amazon offers protection plans for all types of eligible purchases across categories like:
- Electronics: Phones, tablets, laptops, TVs, gaming systems, cameras
- Smart home tech: Alexa/Echo, security systems, thermostats
- Major appliances: Refrigerators, dishwashers, washers/dryers
- Furniture: Mattresses, sofas, desks
- Fitness: Treadmills, exercise bikes
- Musical instruments: Guitars, pianos, drum sets
- Jewelry: Rings, watches, necklaces
- Baby gear: Car seats, strollers, high chairs
According to an Amazon spokesperson, protection plans are available for "tens of millions" of eligible items across over 30 categories on Amazon.com.
If an item qualifies, you’ll see the option to “Add gift options” or “Add protection plan” on the checkout page. Amazon also lets you add plans for some items already purchased within 30 days.
What Does Amazon Protection Cover Against Damage, Theft or Breakdown?
Amazon protection plans provide coverage for:
Accidental damage – Damage from drops, cracks, spills, power surges that occur during normal everyday use after the manufacturer’s warranty ends.
Examples: Cracked phone screen, coffee spilled on laptop, TV tipped over and broken
Theft or loss – You must file a valid police report for theft claims. Loss protection covers leaving an item behind or having it fall out of your bag.
Examples: Phone pickpocketed, laptop left in airport, tablet lost under airline seat
Mechanical breakdown – Repair costs if a product stops working properly due to an internal electrical or mechanical failure past the manufacturer‘s warranty.
Examples: Dishwasher pump failure, refrigerator compressor stops cooling, TV backlight malfunctions
According to SquareTrade research, 31% of electronics fail in the first year after purchase, and that number jumps to 50% by year two. With Amazon protection, mechanical breakdowns like these are covered for multiple years beyond the regular warranty.
What Damage is NOT Covered by Amazon Protection Plans?
While very comprehensive, Amazon protection plans do not cover every type of damage, including:
- Pre-existing damage before plan purchase
- Intentional or reckless damage
- Cosmetic damage like scratches that don’t affect function
- Unauthorized repairs by unapproved servicers
- Gradual reduced performance due to normal wear and tear over time
- Damage while using products for commercial/business purposes
Theft exclusions depend on the product, but may include theft from vehicles without proof of forced entry.
It’s essential to check the full terms and conditions for exclusions specific to your item before purchasing protection. Accidental damage must always be from normal use and handling only. Intentional damage is not covered.
How Much Do Amazon Protection Plans Cost?
Protection plan prices vary based on the product, coverage tier selected, and length of the plan. Amazon discloses that plans cost 4% to 10% of the product’s original purchase price, on average.
Here are some examples of Amazon protection plan costs for popular items:
Electronics Protection Plans
| Device | Term | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Smartphone | 2 years | $129 |
| Laptop <$300 | 3 years | $39 |
| iPad | 2 years | $109 |
| Smartwatch | 2 years | $59 |
| Camera | 4 years | $299 |
Appliance Protection Plans
| Appliance | Term | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 5 years | $319 |
| Dishwasher | 4 years | $159 |
| Washer/Dryer Set | 5 years | $399 |
| Range | 5 years | $239 |
Other Protection Plans
| Item | Term | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Smart TV 55" | 3 years | $79 |
| Patio Furniture Set | 3 years | $149 |
| Mattress | 10 years | $359 |
| Gaming Console | 4 years | $349 |
For more expensive items like appliances and TVs, plans can cost over $300 depending on retail price. Monthly protection plan payments are also available on select items if you prefer to pay over time.
How Do Amazon Protection Plan Tiers and Options Differ?
Amazon offers different tiers of protection plans with varying levels of coverage. Higher tiers provide more comprehensive coverage, usually for more years.
Here is an overview of the common protection plan tiers for electronics like laptops, tablets and phones:
Basic Coverage Tier
- 2 years accidental damage protection
- Theft and loss coverage
- No coverage for mechanical breakdown
- Cheapest tier with most exclusions
Standard Coverage Tier
- 2-3 years accidental damage protection
- Theft, loss and mechanical breakdown covered
- Most popular tier for value
Premium Coverage Tier
- 3-4 years comprehensive protection
- Accidental damage, theft, loss, breakdowns
- May include tech support benefits
- Highest cost but most coverage time
When purchasing protection, compare the tiers and options to choose the right plan duration and coverage scope for your needs – and budget. Higher tiers provide peace of mind but cost more upfront.
How Do I Actually Purchase an Amazon Protection Plan?
Buying a protection plan through Amazon is straightforward:
During Initial Purchase
When checking out, you’ll see the option to “Add gift options” or “Add protection plan.” Select a plan tier and term then add it to your cart.
Within 30 Days of Purchase
Go to “Your Orders” in your Amazon account and find the item. Click “View available plans” to add one within 30 days.
For Existing Devices
Visit Protection Plans on Amazon and enter your product’s info to see if it’s already eligible for coverage. Only select products qualify.
When purchasing, make sure to select the right tier, term length, and purchase within 30 days of ordering the product. Protection plans are tied to specific items using the order ID or serial number and can‘t be transferred.
How Do I File A Claim with My Amazon Protection Plan?
Making a claim with Amazon protection is designed to be simple if you ever need to use it:
Step 1: Contact Amazon via the phone number or website link provided in your protection plan confirmation email and documentation.
Step 2: Explain the situation and damage or issue with your product. Provide any necessary documentation like a police report.
Step 3: Amazon will send you the next steps to ship your item for assessment, or schedule an authorized repair facility to evaluate on-site.
Step 4: Amazon will keep you informed throughout the claims process and notify you once your issue is resolved with a repair, replacement, or settlement.
Many claims can be fully resolved within 2 weeks. Amazon also provides the option for expedited shipping or on-site repairs to get you back up and running as soon as possible.
How Does Amazon Resolve Protection Plan Claims?
When you file a valid protection plan claim, common resolution options include:
Repair
Amazon will cover the cost of repair by an authorized, brand-approved repair shop for your specific product. This is common for minor damage to electronics and appliances.
Replacement
If uneconomical to repair, you will receive a new, refurbished or Amazon-certified replacement product of the same model or an upgraded comparable model.
Settlement
For products damaged beyond repair, Amazon may issue a settlement check or gift card for the prorated value or applicable limits.
Geek Squad Visit
For large electronics, Amazon can dispatch a Geek Squad agent to perform repairs on-site in your home. Not available in all regions.
The exact resolution depends on the damage, the repair costs, and the remaining value of the product. Amazon aims to make you whole again as cost-effectively as possible.
Can I Get a Refund on an Unused Amazon Protection Plan?
Good news – Amazon allows you to cancel any unused protection plan for a full or prorated refund at any time when you no longer need the coverage:
Within 30 days: You get a full 100% refund if no claims have been made yet.
After 30 days: The refund amount is prorated based on the remaining time left, minus a cancellation fee.
To request a cancellation, call Amazon support or go through “Your Orders” and select “Return or replace items” on your protection plan order. The refund will be quickly processed to your original payment method.
This provides great flexibility if you change your mind or no longer need the protection plan you purchased.
What Other Protection Plans Does Amazon Offer?
In addition to their own protection plans, Amazon provides plans through partners:
Asurion – Leading insurance provider with plans for theft, loss, accidents plus tech support.
Allstate Protection Plans – Total protection including appliances, furniture, electronics and more.
SquareTrade – Known for extended warranty protection against defects.
New Leaf Service Plans – Specialized repair plans for appliances and home systems.
Amazon makes it easy to compare plans from multiple providers during checkout and choose the provider, coverage and duration you want.
Are Amazon Protection Plans Really Worth the Cost?
Now that you know what Amazon protection plans cover and how they work, are they really worth buying? Let‘s compare the pros and cons:
Pros of Adding Protection
- Covers accidental damage not under regular warranties
- Protects against theft or loss of portable items
- Provides longer coverage for mechanical failures
- Convenient claims and support through Amazon
- Often cheaper than paying for repairs without coverage
- Various plan tiers to fit needs and budget
Cons of Protection Plans
- Added upfront cost of 4-10% of item price
- May still have deductibles or fees per claim
- Doesn‘t cover cosmetic damage or normal wear and tear
- Exclusions apply like some theft and pre-existing damage
- Requires being careful to purchase within 30 days
Whether protection makes sense depends on a few factors:
How accident-prone are you? If you have a history of damaging phones or laptops, protection can pay for itself quickly compared to repair costs. But if you are very careful, basic warranties may suffice.
How long will you own the item? Plans amortize best for gadgets and appliances you plan to own for 3+ years. Shorter term items may not warrant the cost.
What is your risk tolerance? If you know paying hundreds in repairs would be difficult, protection brings peace of mind. But if you could afford replacement cost, it may not be necessary.
What is your shopping style? As a bargain hunter, protection may seem an unnecessary upcharge, but for pickier shoppers wanting premium coverage it provides great value.
Consider your personal needs, risk of damage based on your habits, and the length of ownership. For very expensive electronics, appliances, and devices with high repair costs, protection is usually a smart investment for added peace of mind.
The Bottom Line
Amazon makes it quick and easy to add protection plans from them or partners like Asurion and Allstate during checkout for many purchases.
Plans provide extensive coverage beyond the manufacturer warranty for accidental damage, theft, loss or breakdowns. Costs range from 4-10% of the item price depending on tier. Protection lasts 2-5 years for most eligible electronics, appliances, furniture, jewelry and more.
Filing claims is straightforward through Amazon’s 24/7 support. They aim to conveniently repair, replace or reimburse you based on the issue. Plans can also be canceled for a prorated refund if no longer needed.
So consider your personal habits, intended ownership length, and risk tolerance. For expensive, accident-prone items used long-term, protection provides great value. Give yourself peace of mind on your next Amazon purchase by adding a protection plan during checkout.
I hope this guide gave you a clear idea of what Amazon protection plans offer. Let me know if you have any other questions!