Service Contract Providers Page

Finance Division

Kimberly Johnson, kimberly.johnson@arkansas.gov 
Insurance Examiner
Arkansas Insurance Department
1200 West Third Street
Little Rock, AR 72201-1904
501-371-2680, fax 501-371-2747

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Service Contract? A "Service Contract," is sometimes referred to as an extended service plan or extended warranty, gives purchasers of consumer electronics, appliances, motor vehicles, homes and home systems, the option to protect their products and investments beyond the terms provided by the manufacturer or seller. Service Contracts often provide benefits not otherwise available in a manufacturer's or seller's warranty. Service Contracts offer flexible benefits that can include product repairs, complete product replacement, technical support, and emergency repairs and service. In addition to product and purchase protection, Service Contracts provide consumers with convenience, time savings, and peace of mind.

How does a Service Contract differ from a warranty? Unlike a Service Contract for which a consumer pays a separate charge, a manufacturer's warranty is included in the purchase price of a product. You don't have to decide whether to "buy" it or not - it simply comes with your product. Although Service Contracts are sold by manufacturers, as well as other kinds of companies, they differ from a manufacturer's warranty. Manufacturers' warranties generally have limited product protection and are effective for a limited period of time, some as short as 90 days, depending on the type of product covered. Service Contracts are designed to provide protection after a manufacturer's warranty expires but they can also overlap by providing additional benefits generally not included in a manufacturer's warranty.

What is the Service Contract Industry Council? The Service Contract Industry Council (SCIC) is a national non-profit trade association that works with lawmakers across the country to develop fair and uniform regulation to protect consumers, and is an advocate for the regulation of the Service Contract industry.