When you buy a product with a warranty, the law requires you to have access to the written warranty before purchase. This means saving a copy of the warranty document is essential for future claims. The FTC emphasizes that keeping records of the warranty helps resolve product issues later. Start by saving the warranty copy immediately after purchase to ensure you have the necessary documentation for any claims.
Quick Answer
Save the warranty copy, product receipts, and proof of purchase. Keep records of all communications with the seller or manufacturer, including emails, chat logs, and service requests.
What to Save for Warranty Claims
The FTC states that written warranties are common for major purchases like cars and home appliances. To ensure you can claim warranty coverage, save the original warranty document.
Keep a copy of your purchase receipt or invoice. The FTC notes that a warranty must be available for you to read before buying, so having this receipt ensures you have the right documentation for claims. This step prevents disputes over whether the product was purchased under the warranty terms.
- Save the warranty document itself, including any written terms or conditions.
- Warranties: Manufacturers or sellers often include a warranty - a promise to stand behind the product.
Avoiding Common Warranty Pitfalls
Extended warranties and service contracts are different from the manufacturer's warranty. The FTC warns that these additional services often cost extra and cover different issues than the original warranty. Before purchasing an extended warranty, check the costs and hidden fees like deductibles or service charges.
Marketers sometimes use high-pressure tactics, such as saying your warranty is about to expire, to push you into buying extended services. The FTC advises that it might be risky to buy extended warranties from telemarketers, as the company responsible for coverage might not be in business when you need them.
- Review the details of the extended warranty or service contract to understand what it covers.
- Check for hidden costs like deductibles or fees that apply each time the product is serviced.
- Confirm the company responsible for coverage is stable and in business when you need their services.
Documenting Your Claim Process
This includes emails, chat logs, and service requests. Note the date and time of each interaction to track the timeline of your claim.
If you need to escalate claims to arbitration, the FTC states that you might appear at hearings, present evidence, or question witnesses.
- Save a copy of every email, chat log, or service request you send to the manufacturer.
- Note the date and time of each communication to track the timeline of your claim.
- Keep records of any repairs or replacements made under warranty to prove the product was fixed.
Key Considerations for Warranty Claims
The FTC notes that a warranty won't cover all situations or repairs. You might need to return a product registration card first to qualify for warranty service. This means saving the registration card is crucial for accessing warranty benefits. Without it, you could face delays or denial of claims, even if the product is within warranty terms.
A good warranty can make a difference if you have problems with your purchase later. The FTC highlights that reputation matters when choosing a warranty.
- Save the product registration card to access warranty service if required.
- Check the manufacturer's reputation for warranty support to ensure quick and effective resolutions.
FAQ
Do I need to save the product registration card for warranty claims?
Yes, the FTC states that you might need to return the product registration card first to qualify for warranty service. Saving this card ensures you can access warranty benefits without delays or denials.
How do I know if an extended warranty is worth the extra cost?
The FTC advises checking the costs and hidden fees like deductibles or service charges. An extended warranty is only worth it if it offers more coverage than the original warranty. Avoid extended warranties from telemarketers, as the company might not be in business when you need their services.
What should I do if the manufacturer denies my warranty claim?
Save copies of all communications with the manufacturer, including emails and chat logs. The FTC recommends noting the date and time of each interaction to track the timeline of your claim.
Primary Sources
- U.S. FTC: Warranties
- U.S. FTC: Extended Warranties and Service Contracts
- Federal Trade Commission: Solving Problems With a Business
Everyday Record Lab provides general organizational information, not legal, tax, insurance, financial, or safety advice. Confirm current instructions with the responsible official source.