You can add AppleCare+ to your iPhone within 60 days of purchase, either during setup or later through the Settings app or Apple's website

AppleCare+ is Apple's extended protection plan that covers accidental damage, hardware failures, and includes priority repair service. You do not have to buy it when you first purchase your phone — Apple gives you a 60-day window to add it afterward. The price varies by iPhone model, but typically ranges from around $100 to $200 for two years of coverage. Once enrolled, you pay a deductible (usually $29 to $99 per incident) when you need a repair for accidental damage.

The simplest time to add AppleCare+ is during iPhone setup, when Apple prompts you to choose protection options. If you miss that window, you can still add it through your phone's Settings, through Apple's website, or by visiting an Apple Store — as long as you are within 60 days of your original purchase date.

Key Takeaways

  • AppleCare+ must be added within 60 days of your iPhone purchase, whether you buy it at setup or add it later.
  • You can add AppleCare+ through Settings on your phone, on Apple's website, or in an Apple Store without visiting a physical location.
  • The plan covers hardware failures and accidental damage like drops and water damage, but each repair claim has a separate deductible.
  • AppleCare+ includes priority repair service and mail-in repair options, so you do not always need to visit a store.

Adding AppleCare+ through iPhone Settings

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap General, then scroll down and tap About. Near the bottom of the About screen, you should see an option for AppleCare+ or Add AppleCare+. Tap it, and the phone will walk you through a brief questionnaire to confirm your device and purchase date.

After you confirm your information, you will see the price for your specific iPhone model and the coverage details. Review what is covered — typically hardware failures, accidental damage from drops and liquid, and battery service if your battery health drops below 80 percent. Tap the button to proceed with payment, and you will be asked to confirm your Apple ID and payment method. The charge will appear on your Apple ID account.

Once the purchase completes, you will receive a confirmation email and your AppleCare+ coverage begins when ready. You can view your coverage details anytime by returning to Settings > General > About > AppleCare+.

Adding AppleCare+ on Apple's Website

Go to apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID. Navigate to Account (usually in the top right corner), then select Devices. Find your iPhone in the list and click on it. You should see an option to Add AppleCare+ or View AppleCare+ Options.

Click that option and the website will confirm your device details and show you the price. Review the coverage terms, then proceed to checkout using your saved payment method. You will receive a confirmation email once the purchase is complete, and coverage begins right away. This method works well if you prefer to manage it on a computer or if the Settings option is not appearing on your phone.

Adding AppleCare+ at an Apple Store

Visit any Apple Store and bring your iPhone and proof of purchase (your receipt, order confirmation email, or the device itself if it is registered to your Apple ID). A specialist will look up your device, confirm you are within the 60-day window, and walk you through the coverage options.

You can pay in the store using any payment method, and the specialist will set up AppleCare+ on your device when ready. This option is useful if you have questions about what is covered or if you want to understand the repair process before committing. Apple Stores also have extended hours in many locations, so you may be able to stop by outside of typical business hours.

What Happens After You Add AppleCare+

Once AppleCare+ is active, you can file a claim for accidental damage or hardware failure by opening the Support app on your iPhone, visiting apple.com/support, or calling Apple Support. You will describe the issue, and Apple will either walk you through troubleshooting or schedule a repair.

For accidental damage claims, you will pay the deductible at the time of repair. For hardware failures covered under the plan, there is typically no deductible — Apple covers the repair cost. Repairs can happen at an Apple Store, through mail-in service, or sometimes through an Apple Authorized Service Provider depending on your location and the type of damage.

Your AppleCare+ coverage lasts for two years from the date you add it, not from your original purchase date. After two years, the plan expires and you would need to purchase a new plan if you want continued coverage — though Apple may offer you the option to renew.

What AppleCare+ Does and Does Not Cover

AppleCare+ covers accidental damage from drops, liquid damage, and hardware failures like a broken screen, battery issues, or internal component failures. It also includes priority customer service, which means you get faster response times when you contact Apple Support.

AppleCare+ does not cover intentional damage, loss or theft, cosmetic damage that does not affect function, or damage from unauthorized repairs. It also does not cover normal wear and tear or damage from misuse (like using the phone in ways Apple did not intend). If your phone is stolen, you would need to file a claim with your homeowner's or renter's insurance instead.

The 60-Day Window and What Happens If You Miss It

Apple requires you to add AppleCare+ within 60 days of your iPhone purchase. The 60 days starts from the date you bought the phone, not the date you activated it. If you purchased your iPhone on January 1st, you have until March 1st to add AppleCare+, regardless of when you first turned it on.

If you miss the 60-day window, you cannot add AppleCare+ to that phone. Your only option at that point is to purchase a new iPhone with AppleCare+ included, or to go without the plan. Some credit cards offer purchase protection or accidental damage coverage as a cardholder benefit, so check your card's benefits if you missed the window — you may have some protection already.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add AppleCare+ if I bought my iPhone from a carrier like Verizon or AT&T instead of Apple?

Yes. The 60-day window applies regardless of where you purchased the phone. You can add it through your iPhone Settings, Apple's website, or an Apple Store using your Apple ID. Some carriers also offer their own device protection plans, which are separate from AppleCare+ and may have different terms.

What is the difference between AppleCare+ and AppleCare?

AppleCare is a basic support plan that covers phone support and repairs for hardware failures, but does not cover accidental damage. AppleCare+ includes everything in AppleCare plus accidental damage coverage. For most people, AppleCare+ is the better choice because accidental drops and spills are common.

If I add AppleCare+ after 60 days, will Apple reject it?

Yes. Apple will not let you add AppleCare+ after the 60-day window closes. The Settings app and Apple's website will show that your device is no longer may be able to access. If you are close to the important date, add it as soon as possible — there is no penalty for adding it early.

Do I lose AppleCare+ if I sell my iPhone to someone else?

AppleCare+ is tied to the device, not the person who owns it. If you sell your iPhone, the new owner can contact Apple Support and transfer the plan to their Apple ID, or they can continue using it under your Apple ID. Check Apple's transfer policy before selling, as the rules may vary by region.

Can I cancel AppleCare+ and get a refund?

Yes, but the refund depends on how long you have had the plan. If you cancel within 30 days of purchase, you typically get a full refund. After 30 days, Apple calculates a prorated refund based on how much of the two-year plan you have used. Contact Apple Support to request a cancellation.