extended warranties Archives - Rick's Daily Tips

Does your Apple device qualify for a free replacement battery?

Posted on January 29, 2024

For reasons I explained in this post, I usually recommend skipping the extended warranty when you buy a new computer or mobile device.

That being said, plenty of folks disagree with me, and that’s fine.

If having your new computer or other device covered by an extended warranty gives you a warm and fuzzy feeling and lets you sleep well at night, then I’d say it’s money well spent.

And guess what? If you happen to have an Apple device that’s covered by an AppleCare Protection Plan, it might already qualify to receive a new battery at no charge under the plan. [Read more…]

Q&A: Should I buy an extended warranty for my new computer?

Posted on October 4, 2022

Note: The links in this post are affiliate links.

Question from Angela: Rick, I have a question about extended warranties.

I bought a new laptop last Saturday and as the cashier was ringing me up she tried her best to talk me into buying a 2 year extended warranty for almost $100.

I paid just a little over $300 for the laptop and $100 seemed excessive to me, so I declined.

Do you think I made the right decision? I have up to 30 days to change my mind and go back and buy it.

Rick’s answer: Angela, this is only my personal opinion and plenty of folks will disagree, but I think you made exactly the right choice in declining the extended warranty. [Read more…]

Why you probably should skip your carrier’s insurance on your smart phone

Posted on February 7, 2017

Are you paying a monthly fee to your cell carrier to cover repairs to your phone should something happen to it? If you are, you’re probably paying way too much for what could amount to very little coverage.

Depending on the carrier and phone, you could be paying upwards of $15 per month for a plan that has a whopping $200 deductible!

In my opinion, carrier insurance (AKA an extended warranty) is rarely a good deal, even when it does actually “pay off”. Which brings me to my next point… [Read more…]