Protect Black Friday Gifts With an Extended Warranty

ATLANTA, Nov. 16, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- After spending hours shopping for the perfect gift, trying to choose the fastest check-out line and navigating options at the food court, the last thing most shoppers will be looking for this holiday season is another decision. But when offered the option to add an extended service contract (also known as an extended warranty) to a purchase, shoppers should take a moment to consider the benefits. Protecting Black Friday holiday purchases can be a good idea, especially for high tech electronic gadgets.

For most electronics, a product warranty typically provides for service and repairs from manufacturers' defects for a limited period of time after purchase. But what if, amid the chaos of discarded wrapping paper, someone accidentally steps on an expensive gadget moments after it is opened? Or what if holiday punch gets spilled on a new gift? If it's protected with a service contract then all is not lost. Assurant Solution's extended service contracts can help consumers get those gizmos repaired or replaced.

"When purchasing electronics as holiday gifts, it's important to consider the intended recipient's needs and the degree of protection that might be appropriate," said Joe Erdeman, president of Assurant Solutions extended protection solutions business. "Benefits can include 24/7 customer service and technical support, which are perfect for the technically challenged people on your list. And no-lemon guarantees can provide that extra bit of assurance that your gift will be enjoyed for years to come."

Before buying a service contract, shoppers should make sure they understand the protection that both the warranty and the service plan provide. Terms and conditions for service contracts vary. Some policies include accidental damage coverage, which could come in handy during the bustle of the holidays. A service contract also can ensure against normal wear and tear, protecting holiday gifts well beyond expiration of the manufacturer's warranty.

To learn more about extended service contracts, visit http://www.assurantsolutions.com/extendedprotection.

Assurant Solutions businesses develop, underwrite, market and administer specialty insurance, extended service contracts and other risk management solutions through collaborative relationships with leading financial institutions, retailers, automobile dealers, funeral homes, utilities and other entities. With operations in 25 locations, including executive offices in Atlanta, Ga., Assurant Solutions serves clients and their customers in 12 countries throughout North America, the Caribbean, Latin America, Europe and Asia.  www.assurantsolutions.com

Assurant Solutions is part of Assurant, a premier provider of specialized insurance products and related services in North America and select worldwide markets. Assurant, a Fortune 500 company and a member of the S&P 500, is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AIZ. Assurant has over $27 billion in assets and $8 billion in annual revenue. www.assurant.com

SOURCE Assurant Solutions