We’ve all been there. That heart-stopping moment when your cell phone slips from your fingers, and crashes towards a hard – or wet – surface. Sometimes, you get lucky. You pick it up and everything works fine.
Other times, not so much.
So when you have a broken phone in your hand, how do you know whether your best option is to repair it or replace it? Here are a few guidelines to help you make that decision.
Part of the question depends on the pre-disaster state of your phone. Was it brand new? Did you have insurance? Is your contract up for renewal? The answers to these questions will help you determine that right course of action.
If you phone is brand new, then you might want to consider repair. Especially if your phone is new AND expensive. On average, most cell phone repairs cost less than $100 and can be completed in under an hour. A big perk to repair is that all of your phone’s setting, picture, and contacts can be saved.
If you have purchased an insurance program, then contact your insurance company in order to process your claim. Be aware that there is a deductible involved (usually between $100-150), and you must wait for the claim to be processed and for the replacement phone to be shipped to your home. Keep in mind that in most cases the replacement phone will be a refurbished phone, not a brand new one.
If you are eligible for an upgrade, this might be the time to make the switch. Often a new phone will come free or at a significantly reduced price. However, always remember that upgrades involve signing a new contract, so you should plan on staying with your carrier for an additional two years.
Above all, never feel rushed into a decision. While it may be inconvenient to have a dead cell phone, you don’t want to make a quick decision that you will later regret. By researching your options, you will be able to know what the best choice is for your situation.
