Verizon charges $10/mnth, EVERY MONTH, then charges ~$150 if you need a replacement... The one time I did use it they sent a scratched (clearly used) device!
Since that one time I've always used AppleCare with a one-time cost of $99, and a $79 deductible--and 2 incidents.
Just do the math. Not to mention how much nicer Apple is to deal with, than Big Red!
Although, Square Trade might be a good alternative, too... Just avoid Verizon--at all cost !
Apple Care: they're just way more efficient and faster.
Also, with Verizon insurance, if they have to replace your phone, they give you a refurbished "pre owned" device, not a new one. So you pay all these premiums and wind up with someone else's headache.
If I had an Apple store near me, I might go with Apple Care plus. However, I don't, so I have always gone with Square Trade. $99 for two years, $75 deductible. It doesn't include loss/theft. My wife dropped her iPhone 4 in the toilet, and Square Trade was no problem.
I preordered my iPhone 6 Plus from the Apple website, but didn't choose AppleCare+ (I just wanted to get checked out before I got another error). If I take my phone into an Apple store once I receive it, do I need to make a Genius Bar appointment? Or can I just walk in and purchase it through a sales rep?