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Boost, Virgin Mobile push phone insurance for $5 per month

Throughout the month of May, all Boost Mobile and Virgin Mobile customers can insure their phones against damage or loss.

Jessica Dolcourt Senior Director, Commerce & Content Operations
Jessica Dolcourt is a passionate content strategist and veteran leader of CNET coverage. As Senior Director of Commerce & Content Operations, she leads a number of teams, including Commerce, How-To and Performance Optimization. Her CNET career began in 2006, testing desktop and mobile software for Download.com and CNET, including the first iPhone and Android apps and operating systems. She continued to review, report on and write a wide range of commentary and analysis on all things phones, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
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LG Marquee for Boost Mobile
LG Marquee for Boost Mobile. Josh Miller/CNET

Sprint is about to do you a favor, by selling you insurance on your phone.

Both of Sprint's no-contract carriers, Boost Mobile and Virgin Mobile, are offering customers on the Monthly Unlimited plan a "unique opportunity" to insure their phones for $5 a month, even though the phone insurance window typically closes after the first 15 days of buying a new handset.

Don't look at it as a business decision from a company seeking an additional revenue bump in the form of a service add-on. Look at it as a heartfelt offer to you, because your happiness is just that important.

Or, at least it is during the month of May. After May 31, the insurance offer reverts to the usual policy.

In all seriousness, there are potential benefits with any insurance program in the event of damage or loss.

Considering that Boost and Virgin phones can cost up to $300, insurance could save you from buying a new phone at full cost, though keep in mind that there is a deductible of $25, $65, or $100 per approved claim. The prepaid carriers will typically replace phones within 24 hours.

You can read more about Boost Mobile's insurance policy here, and Virgin Mobile's here.

Article updated at 8:05am PT to include Virgin Mobile's limited-time offer.