As you check out with your new electronics purchase you inevitably get the question “Would you like to purchase the extended warranty/ buyer protection plan or some other-named coverage?”  Consumer Reports has told you to skip these come-ons for the most part.  You also know that you are a terrible klutz.  One spilled soda or case of butterfingers might end up costing you hundreds of dollars and the loss of the use of your essential technology.  Do you have any other options?  Here are a few:

1.  Remember you have a manufacturer’s warranty.  Make sure you know the warranty length and coverage and have that be part of your purchase decision.

2.  Check to see if you have any coverage affiliated with your credit card–Check with your particular issuer to see if they provide an extended warranty in addition to the manufacturer’s warranty period (for example American Express and Visa have programs).

3.  Third party insurers.  You can cover your electronics with personal property insurance either through your regular home or renters insurance or with a separate insurance policy.   Consider that making a claim on your homeowners/renters policy might lead to future difficulty in obtaining insurance or higher rates in the future.  Holding a separate insurance policy for your laptop or smartphone might be a smarter choice.  Two popular insurers are SquareTrade and Safeware (though I do not have any particular knowledge of these two companies, both are accredited by the BBB).