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If you’re paying out of pocket for phone insurance, you may want to reconsider. You can likely get very similar protection simply by using the right credit card to pay your monthly phone bill.

It’s literally that easy. Many credit cards will automatically cover you and others on your phone plan against damage or theft when you use them to pay your wireless bill. But each card comes with its own coverage caps, deductibles and ancillary benefits that can make your quest for the perfect option a bit complicated.

Methodology

Our team of experts evaluated over 20 cards that offer cell phone protection, evaluating factors such as rewards value, sign-up bonus value and annual fees. Using a data-based approach, we narrowed down the list to the top 10 credit cards that scored highly based on our weightings. Read our full methodology below.

Show summary

All information about American Express? Business Gold Card, Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express and The Business Platinum Card? from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Key takeaways
2X
Earn 2 miles per dollar on all eligible purchases
5X
Earn 5 miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals when booking via Capital One Travel
10X
Earn 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars when booking via Capital One Travel
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
5/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best credit card with cell phone insurance
Learn More
On CardRatings’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles
Annual fee
$395
Regular APR
19.99% – 29.99% (Variable)
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Excellent
Why we picked it

The Venture X is elite at just about everything — cell phone insurance included. When you pay your monthly phone bill with this card, you’ll be covered up to $800 per claim, capped at two claims and $1,600 per 12-month period. You’ll be subject to a reasonable $50 deductible on each claim. This premium card does charge a $395 annual fee, but travelers can offset that price tag. From its $300 annual credit to cover Capital One Travel bookings to its airport lounge access, the Venture X helps you save when you hit the road.

+ Pros
  • Earn 2 miles per dollar on non-bonus categories with no cap
  • Annual $300 credit toward Capital One Travel bookings
  • 10,000 bonus miles each account anniversary
– Cons
  • May charge an above-average APR
  • Charges a $395 annual fee
  • Rewards are best suited for travel and are worth much less if you redeem for cash back
Highlights
  • 2x miles on most purchases
  • 5x miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
  • 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • 10,000 bonus miles each account anniversary
  • $300 annual travel credit
  • Ability to transfer miles to more than a dozen partners Access to airport lounges through Priority Pass, Plaza Premium Group and Capital One Lounges
  • 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening

Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card

Key takeaways
2%
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card
Rates & Fees
3.5/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best for a low deductible and flat-rate rewards
Apply Now
On Wells Fargo’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus

Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months

$200 Cash Rewards
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Good, Excellent
Why we picked it

The Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card (Rates & Fees) offers surprisingly robust cell phone insurance for a no annual fee credit card. Pay your phone bill with the card and you’ll automatically receive up to $600 in coverage per claim, capped at two claims and $1,200 per 12-month period. While this isn’t the highest dollar amount you can get with a credit card, you’ll only have to pay a $25 deductible — the lowest of any card on our list. The Wells Fargo Active Cash earns 2% cash rewards on purchases, making it a decent card for all your spending — including your phone bill.

+ Pros
  • Welcome bonus of $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months
  • Offers cell phone protection
  • 0% APR offer on new purchases and balance transfers for?12 months (then 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter)
– Cons
  • Charges 3% foreign transaction fee
  • No bonus rewards categories
  • Limited perks
Highlights
  • Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
  • Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
  • 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
  • $0 annual fee.
  • No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
  • Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature? Concierge.
  • Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.

Chase Freedom Flex?

*

The information for the Chase Freedom Flex? has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Key takeaways
5%
Earn 5% cash back in categories that rotate quarterly on up to $1,500 when enrolled
5%
5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards?
3%
3% on dining and drugstores and 1% on all other purchases
Chase Freedom Flex?
3.6/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best no annual fee card
Welcome bonus

Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 5% cash back on combined gas station and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year

$200 bonus + 5% on Gas and Grocery (excluding Target and Walmart)
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
20.49% – 29.24% Variable
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Excellent, Good
Why we picked it

The Freedom Flex offers high-octane rewards and ongoing benefits for no annual fee. These include a 0% introductory annual percentage rate (APR) on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months (then a 20.49% – 29.24% Variable APR) and 5% cash back in rotating categories on up to $1,500 in combined spending each quarter (then 1%). Concerning phone insurance, you’ll receive up to $800 in coverage per claim (with a maximum of two claims and $1,000 per 12-month period) when you pay your monthly bill with the card. You’ll need to pay a $50 deductible per claim. This is ample per-claim coverage, though its yearly cap is lower than the caps on other cards on this list.

+ Pros
  • Earn 5% back on eligible travel and purchases in rotating categories
  • 15-month 0% intro APR (then 20.49% – 29.24% Variable APR)
  • No annual fee
– Cons
  • Quarterly cash back category capped at $1,500 in combined purchases each quarter
  • Charges a foreign transaction fee
  • Redemption options don’t include transferring to airline and hotel loyalty partners
Highlights
  • Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
  • 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
  • 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel?, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
  • 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49%-29.24%.
  • No annual fee – You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex? card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health – Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
  • Member FDIC

Wells Fargo Autograph? Card

Key takeaways
3X
Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up – like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans
1X
Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases
Wells Fargo Autograph? Card
Rates & Fees
3.1/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best for bonus points on wireless payments and no annual fee
Apply Now
On Wells Fargo’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus

Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value.

20,000 bonus points
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Good, Excellent
Why we picked it

The Wells Fargo Autograph? Card (rates and fees) is the most rewarding no annual fee credit card you can use to pay your monthly phone bill. You’ll earn 3 points per dollar for spending on phone plans (and on other everyday expenses, such as dining and travel). The Autograph Card provides phone coverage up to $600 per claim, with a maximum of two claims and $1,200 per 12-month period. You’ll need to pay just a $25 deductible per claim.

+ Pros
  • Welcome bonus is valued at $200
  • 3x points on a wide range of spending categories
  • No foreign transaction fee
– Cons
  • Welcome bonus spend threshold of $1,000
  • 12-month 0% intro APR (then 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR ongoing) does not include balance transfers and is shorter than some other offers
  • Low base rewards rate
Highlights
  • Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
  • Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value.
  • Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up – like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
  • $0 annual fee.
  • 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
  • Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
  • Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.
  • Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature? Concierge.

The Business Platinum Card? from American Express

*

The information for the The Business Platinum Card? from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Key takeaways
5x
Earn 5x Membership Rewards? points on flights and prepaid hotels on American Express Travel
1.5X
Earn 1.5x points on eligible purchases at U.S. construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year
1X
Earn 1x points on other eligible purchases
The Business Platinum Card? from American Express
4.9/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best for small businesses
Welcome bonus

Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards? points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.

Earn 150,000 points
Annual fee
$695
Regular APR
19.49% – 28.49% Variable
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Good, Excellent
Why we picked it

The Amex Business Platinum (terms apply, see rates and fees) sets itself apart with up to $10 per month in credits when you use the card to pay your phone bill and enroll in the benefit. That amounts to up to $120 in annual rebates on your mobile service. When it comes to phone protection1, the card offers up to $800 in coverage per claim, with a maximum of two claims per 12-month period. You’ll pay a $50 deductible on each claim. If you’ve got a small business (or even a side hustle), you could qualify for this card.

This card’s annual fee is $695, however, so you’ll have to decide whether its benefits are enough to justify the price point. Benefits include up to $400 to reimburse Dell purchases each year and up to $200 each year to offset incidental fees on an eligible airline. Enrollment is required for both of these benefits.

+ Pros
  • Substantial welcome bonus offer
  • Potential to earn over $1,000 in statement credits each year
  • Hotel elite status and airport lounge access
– Cons
  • High annual fee
  • High minimum spending requirement to unlock welcome bonus
  • Base rewards rate is 1 point per dollar
Highlights

All information about The Business Platinum Card? from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.

American Express? Business Gold Card

*

The information for the American Express? Business Gold Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Key takeaways
4X
Earn 4X points in the 2 select categories where you spend the most each month (4X points applies to the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these 2 categories each calendar year, then earn 1 point per dollar)
3X
Earn 3X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on Amex Travel; Earn 1X points on all other purchases
American Express? Business Gold Card
4.3/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best business card for bonus points on wireless payments
Welcome bonus

Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards? points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.

Earn 100,000 points
Annual fee
$375
Regular APR
19.49% – 28.49% Variable
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Excellent/Good
Why we picked it

For businesses with lots of wireless expenses, the Amex Business Gold (terms apply, see rates and fees) offers just about the best return available. That’s because the card earns 4 American Express Membership Rewards? points per dollar on monthly wireless phone service charges from a U.S. service provider when that spending category is one of your top two from a list of options in a given month. You’ll earn 4 points per dollar on up to $150,000 per calendar year in combined spending (then 1 point per dollar). When you use this card to pay your phone bill, you’ll receive protection1 up to $800 per claim with a cap of two claims per 12-month period. You’ll pay a $50 deductible.

+ Pros
  • Opportunity to earn 4 points per dollar on gas purchases
  • High-value redemption options via airline and hotel partners
  • Monthly credits toward FedEx and more
– Cons
  • 4x bonus points capped at $150,000 of eligible purchases annually
  • Charges a $375 annual fee
  • Rewards are best suited for travel and not ideal if you prefer cash back
Highlights
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards? points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
  • 0% Intro APR ¤ for 6 months from the date of account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time, then a 19.49% to 28.49% variable APR.*
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards? points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards? points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
  • Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
  • Get up to a $12.95 statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.*
  • The Business Gold Card now comes in three metal designs: Gold, Rose Gold and Limited Edition White Gold. White Gold design is only available while supplies last. Make your selection when you apply on Americanexpress.com.
  • *Terms Apply

All information about American Express? Business Gold Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.

Ink Business Preferred? Credit Card

Key takeaways
3x
Earn 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, shipping purchases, Internet, cable and phone services, advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year
1x
Earn 1 point per dollar on all other purchases, with no limit to the amount you can earn
Ink Business Preferred? Credit Card
4.9/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best for high-value phones
Apply Now
On Chase Bank USA, NA’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus

Earn 90,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

90,000 bonus points
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
21.24%-26.24% Variable
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Good, Excellent
Why we picked it

The Ink Business Preferred offers by far the highest phone insurance limit among cards on this list. When you pay your monthly phone bill with the card, you’ll receive up to $1,000 in coverage per claim, with a maximum of three claims per 12-month period. Unfortunately, you’ll also be subject to a $100 deductible on each claim, which is the biggest of the cards on this list. To boot, you’ll earn 3x Chase Ultimate Rewards? points on the first $150,000 in combined spending each year (then 1x) on phone services, internet and cable services, travel, shipping, and social media and search engine advertising. This will give you a powerful return in addition to top-tier coverage.

+ Pros
  • Points are worth 25% more when used through Chase Travel?
  • Earn 90,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening
  • Points can be transferred to participating loyalty programs
– Cons
  • $95 annual fee
  • No 0% introductory APR
  • Bonus rewards capped at $150,000 in spending across bonus categories each year
Highlights
  • Earn 90k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel?
  • Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
  • Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
  • With Zero Liability you won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
  • Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more – your points don’t expire as long as your account is open
  • Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel?
  • Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
  • Member FDIC

The Platinum Card? from American Express

Key takeaways
5X
Earn 5 Membership Rewards? Points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel and on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex travel. The airline benefit is limited to the first $500,000 in purchases per calendar year.
1X
Earn 1 point for every dollar spent on other eligible purchases
Partner Offer
The Platinum Card? from American Express
Rates & Fees / Terms Apply
4.5/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best for luxury travel perks
Apply Now
On American Express’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards? Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 80,000 points
Annual fee
$695
Regular APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Excellent, Good
Why we picked it

We rate the Amex Platinum (terms apply, see rates and fees) as the best travel card for luxury benefits. Perks include the most comprehensive airport lounge access offered by a rewards card and hotel and airline benefits that can catapult the quality of your travel experience. The card also offers up to $800 in phone protection1 per claim, with a maximum of two claims per 12-month period. You’re subject to a $50 deductible per claim.

The card’s $695 annual fee is enough to spook a lot of would-be card holders. But before you write the Amex Platinum off, examine its myriad valuable benefits to decide if the card can save you money in the long run. If you can organically receive more than $695 in value each year, the card is worth considering.

+ Pros
  • Generous welcome bonus offer
  • Premium benefits including statement credits, hotel elite status and airport lounge access
  • Top-notch travel and purchase protections
– Cons
  • High annual fee
  • Base rewards rate is just 1 point per dollar on most purchases
  • Statement credits and perks can be hard to maximize
Highlights
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards? Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards? Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards? Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts? or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card?. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card? on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection? can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card? to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card?.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
  • $199 CLEAR? Plus Credit: CLEAR? Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
  • Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck? (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card?. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card?. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card? to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.¤
  • Terms Apply.

Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express

*

The information for the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Key takeaways
14X
Earn 14x Hilton Honors bonus points on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio
7X
Earn 7x points on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies, and at U.S. restaurants
3X
Earn 3x points on other eligible purchases
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express
4.9/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best hotel card
Welcome bonus

Limited Time Offer. Earn 175,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases on the card within your first 6 months of card membership. Offer ends 7/31/2024.

Earn 175,000 points
Annual fee
$550
Regular APR
20.99% – 29.99% variable
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Good/Excellent
Why we picked it

No co-branded hotel credit card on the market brings more elite perks to the table than the Amex Hilton Aspire Card. With perks such as an annual free night reward, up to $400 to reimburse Hilton resort spending each year and up to $200 in flight credit per year (enrollment required), this card’s $550 annual fee isn’t always difficult to rationalize. When you pay your monthly phone bill with this card, you’ll receive up to $800 in coverage per claim, capped at two claims per 12-month period. You’ll pay a $50 deductible on each claim.

+ Pros
  • Generous welcome bonus offer
  • Automatic top-tier Hilton Diamond elite status
  • Up to $400 per year in statement credits toward Hilton Resort purchases
– Cons
  • High annual fee
  • Hilton statement credits are doled out as up to $200 semi-annually
  • No airport lounge access
Highlights
  • Limited Time Offer. Earn 175,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases on the card within your first 6 months of card membership. Offer ends 7/31/2024.
  • Earn 14 points for every dollar spent when you make eligible purchases on your card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton Portfolio
  • Earn 7 points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases on your card for: Flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies and U.S. restaurants
  • Earn 3 bonus points per dollar spent on other eligible purchases
  • Up to $400 in statement credits each year of card membership ($200 semi-annually) for eligible purchases at participating Hilton Resorts
  • Complimentary Diamond status
  • Annual free night reward, terms apply
  • Up to $200 flight credit ($50 in statement credits each quarter)

All information about Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.

Delta SkyMiles? Reserve American Express Card

Key takeaways
3X
Earn 3 miles per dollar on Delta flights and Delta Vacations?
1X
Earn 1 mile per dollar for all other eligible purchases
Partner Offer
Delta SkyMiles? Reserve American Express Card
Rates & Fees / Terms Apply
3.7/5

The CNN Underscored Money editorial team has developed a star rating so you can see the best card for specific categories. While we believe this card excels in this category, its overall star rating may differ.

Best airline card
Apply Now
On American Express’s Secure Website
Welcome bonus

Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 60,000 bonus miles
Annual fee
$650
Regular APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Credit score

Credit score ranges are based on FICO? credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Excellent, Good
Why we picked it

The Delta SkyMiles Reserve (terms apply, see rates and fees) is an elite airline credit card for Delta flyers also seeking cell phone insurance1. You’ll get up to $800 per claim (up to two claims per 12-month period), with a $50 deductible on each claim. Beyond that, the card provides Delta Sky Club membership (which otherwise costs $695 per year), an annual companion certificate for eligible round-trip flights, the first checked bag free for you and up to eight passengers on the same reservation and lots more. Its $650 annual fee isn’t an easy pill to swallow, but it’s a no-brainer for someone who would otherwise pay for Delta Sky Club membership (though access is changing for the worse in early 2025).

+ Pros
  • Cardholders receive complimentary Delta Sky Club access when they fly Delta
  • Free first checked bag and priority boarding on Delta flights
  • Annual companion certificate
– Cons
  • $650 annual fee
  • Must be flying Delta to access Delta Sky Clubs
  • Non-Delta purchases only earn 1 mile per dollar
Highlights
  • Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter. Once all 15 Visits have been used, Eligible Card Members may purchase additional Delta Sky Club Visits at a per-Visit rate of $50 per person using the Card.
  • Receive four Delta Sky Club? One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly Delta so you can share the experience with family and friends.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion? Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
  • Receive $2,500 Medallion? Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
  • Earn $1 Medallion? Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles? Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
  • Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+?, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • $240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles? Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $20 each month in statement credits. Enrollment required.
  • $120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your Delta SkyMiles? Reserve American Express Card to pay for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
  • Delta SkyMiles? Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • With your Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
  • Delta SkyMiles? Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • $650 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Our picks at a glance

Annual feeWelcome bonusBest forCell phone insurance coverage limit and deductible
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
$395
75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening
Cell phone insurance
$800 per claim, $50 deductible
Wells Fargo Active Cash? Card
$0
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months
Low deductible and flat-rate rewards
$600 per claim, $25 deductible
Chase Freedom Flex? * The information for the Chase Freedom Flex? has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
$0
$200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first three months from account opening
No annual fee
$800 per claim (up to $1,000 per 12 months), $50 deductible
Wells Fargo Autograph? Card
$0
20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first three months
Bonus points on wireless payments and no annual fee
$600 per claim, $25 deductible
The Business Platinum Card? from American Express * The information for the The Business Platinum Card? from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
$695
150,000 Membership Rewards? points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases with the card within the first three months of card membership
Small businesses
$800 per claim, $50 deductible1
American Express? Business Gold Card * The information for the American Express? Business Gold Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
$375
100,000 Membership Rewards? points after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months of opening an account
Businesses looking to earn bonus points on wireless payments
$800 per claim, $50 deductible1
Ink Business Preferred? Credit Card
$95
90,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening
High-value phones
$1,000 per claim, $100 deductible
The Platinum Card? from American Express
$695
80,000 Membership Rewards? points after you spend $8,000 on purchases within the first six months of account opening
Luxury travel perks
$800 per claim, $50 deductible1
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express * The information for the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
$550
175,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first six months of opening an account
Hotels
$800 per claim, $50 deductible
Delta SkyMiles? Reserve American Express Card
$650
60,000 miles after spending $5,000 on eligible purchases in the first six months of card membership
Airlines
$800 per claim, $50 deductible1

All information about American Express? Business Gold Card, Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express and The Business Platinum Card? from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.

How to activate credit card cell phone insurance

To activate credit card cell phone insurance, all you need to do is pay your wireless bill with the credit card offering protection. As long as you paid your phone bill with the card in the month before your phone was damaged or stolen, you’ll typically be covered.

Credit cards often cover all the cell phone lines on your bill, though exact details can vary by card issuer.

What is covered by credit card phone insurance?

With credit card phone insurance, you can generally expect to be reimbursed for eligible stolen, lost or damaged phones up to the actual cost of repair or replacement or the issuer’s specified maximum payout, whichever is less. You’ll only be reimbursed for anything that isn’t covered by another insurance provider.

Typically, damage is something that causes the phone to not work properly, such as a seriously cracked screen. You won’t be covered from simple cosmetic imperfections like scuffs and scratches, and you won’t be reimbursed if you intentionally break the phone. Read the fine print of your card’s insurance to see what kinds of scenarios aren’t covered.

How to choose the right credit card with phone insurance

Credit cards offer a variety of phone insurance plans to fit different needs. Here are some things to consider before making your choice:

  • How much coverage do you need? The maximum claim amount can vary by hundreds of dollars. Deductibles can also vary. If you’ve got an expensive phone, you may prefer a card with a higher coverage limit.
  • Do you prioritize bonus rewards? Not all credit cards offering phone insurance provide bonus rewards for your phone services, but some do. If your wireless bill is a large expense for you, it could be worth focusing on cards with the best rewards rates.
  • How high of an annual fee are you willing to pay? There are no annual fee credit cards that offer phone insurance, and there are $695 annual fee cards that offer phone insurance. The most comprehensive coverage will typically come from cards with fees — but it’s not worth paying an annual fee solely for cell phone coverage.
  • Is the phone for personal or business use? If you’ve got a business that pays for its employee phones, you’ll probably want to lean on a small business credit card for the expense.

Alternatives to credit card phone insurance

Credit card insurance is far from the only option to protect your mobile phone, though it can be the cheapest. Other options that provide some form of coverage include:

  • Manufacturers warranties: You may receive limited coverage for your product from the manufacturer, typically to cover defective products. Some credit cards can extend that warranty by up to a year. This kind of coverage likely won’t extend to damage and theft.
  • Ongoing maintenance plans: A maintenance plan such as AppleCare+ or Samsung Care+ can cover you against damage. You can pay more for coverage against theft and loss.
  • Other insurance: Your wireless provider may offer insurance for a fee. For example, T-Mobile’s Protection<360>? program has coverage starting at $7 per month. Additionally, your phone may be covered by your homeowners or renters insurance or another insurance plan you have. In this case, your credit card insurance will only reimburse you for anything that these insurance plans will not.

Read the fine print on any insurance policy to make sure you understand what’s covered and what your deductible is.

Methodology

Our money and data analytics teams evaluated over 20 credit cards. We then narrowed down our list of the best cards with phone insurance by giving them a star rating out of five based on the following factors and our editorial judgment:

Sign-up bonus value (25%)

Many rewards cards offer bonus cash back, points or miles to consumers who spend a certain amount in their first months with the card. We calculated how much those bonuses are worth using points valuations from The Points Guy, and boosted cards that offer more value.

Rewards value (25%)

Many credit cards earn rewards, but not all credit card points and miles are worth the same amount. We used spending data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and estimates of rewards values from The Points Guy to determine which cards dole out the best rewards value.

Benefits (25%)

Cards that offer benefits such as purchase protection, extended warranty and a 0% introductory APR on purchases and/or balance transfers received a boost.

Select fees (20%)

Cards with no or low annual fees and foreign transaction fees received a boost compared to cards with higher fees and rates.

Annual credits/bonuses (5%)

Credit cards that come with credits and bonuses for spending in categories including groceries, dining, entertainment and gas received a boost.

What didn’t make the cut

Many other credit cards provide some form of phone insurance — but a variety of foibles prevent them from being your best option. Here are a few examples:

  • Choice Privileges? Mastercard? * The information for the Choice Privileges? Mastercard? has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. : While the card offers generous cell phone insurance and a low deductible, its other perks are largely limited to those who regularly stay with Choice hotels.
  • Bilt Mastercard?: Though its cell phone insurance is solid and its deductible is low, the Bilt Rewards program is designed for renters. If you don’t fit that profile, you won’t get as much value from it.
  • Wells Fargo Reflect? Card: With good cell phone insurance and a 21-months 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers (then an 18.24%, 24.74%, or 29.99% Variable APR), this card suits those with a large upcoming expense that they can’t pay off immediately. However, the card doesn’t have a rewards program, so its value largely disappears after the first 21 months.
  • Capital One Venture X Business: The card offers great cell phone insurance, but you’ll only qualify if you own a business (or have a side gig), making the consumer Venture X more accessible.
  • Ink Business Premier? Credit Card: You’ll get similar insurance to the Ink Business Preferred, but the rewards you earn are less valuable. You can’t transfer them to airline and hotel partners for free travel like you can with the Ink Business Preferred.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Cell phone insurance often appears as a perk on the landing page of credit cards that offer it. If you’re not certain, though, you’ll always find it in the card’s guide to benefits.

Some cards extend US manufacturers warranties on certain items and/or protect eligible purchases for a few months from the purchase date against theft and damage. Beyond that, you won’t receive any sort of phone protection simply by buying your phone with a specific credit card. You’ll have to pay your monthly phone bill for credit card phone insurance to kick in.

Credit card phone insurance is generally handled by a third party. Your card issuer can point you in the direction of that company, and you’ll need to provide documentation such as proof that you’ve been paying your phone bill with your eligible credit card and that the broken phone is in fact on that same account.

To view rates and fees for The Business Platinum Card? from American Express * The information for the The Business Platinum Card? from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , please visit this page.

To view rates and fees for American Express? Business Gold Card * The information for the American Express? Business Gold Card has been collected independently by CNN Underscored. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , please visit this page.

To view rates and fees for The Platinum Card? from American Express, please visit this page.

To view rates and fees for Delta SkyMiles? Reserve American Express Card, please visit this page.

1Coverage for a Stolen or damaged Eligible Cellular Wireless Telephone is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions and limits of liability of this benefit. The maximum liability is $800, per claim, per Eligible Card Account. Each claim is subject to a $50 deductible. Coverage is limited to two (2) claims per Eligible Card Account per 12 month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

All information about American Express? Business Gold Card, Chase Freedom Flex?, Choice Privileges? Mastercard?, Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express and The Business Platinum Card? from American Express has been collected independently by CNN Underscored.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines, hotel chain, or other commercial entity and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of such entities.

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended and should not be understood to constitute financial, investment, insurance or legal advice. All individuals are encouraged to seek advice from a qualified financial professional before making any financial, insurance or investment decisions.

Note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed or may no longer be available.

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