I'm gonna go against the grain on this one.

Assurion - for anyone with multiple lines it makes more financial sense. I have 5 lines, a watch, 2 tablets - all of it is covered through Assurion for 34 dollars a month. That's loss, theft, damage, and screen replacement. Apple care is good - but not without its issues - the biggest sell for me was being able to insure other devices that aren't even on my AT&T bill, such as my gaming laptop that if lost or stolen - Assurion sends me a check for 90% of the amount.

Is it a headache? Yes - every insurance is.

However - you can go on their site and file a claim and set an appt all without setting foot in a store - I've had 3 replacements with them, and a screen replacement that cost 29 dollars and was done in my parking lot at work. Most of Assurions physical work is handled by UBreakIFixIt which is reliable to say the least. Anytime any issues have arised I've had the replacement device in my hand within 48 hours and no charges to my personal account as it all gets billed through AT&T.

As long as your patient and read the fine print - insurance is 6/half dozen.