FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE         OLDWICK, N.J., SEPTEMBER 17, 2008 A.M. Best Co. has upgraded the financial strength rating to A- (Excellent) from B++ (Good) and issuer credit rating to "a-" from "bbb+" of The Service Insurance Company, Inc. (SIC) (West Orange, NJ). The outlook for both ratings has been revised to stable from positive. The rating upgrades reflect SIC's excellent risk-adjusted capitalization, improving operating profitability and conservative balance sheet. The ratings also reflect SIC's niche surety underwriting expertise, successful expansion into a neighboring state and management's conservative stance with regard to attaining personal and spousal indemnity and the utilization of collateral when appropriate. Partially offsetting these strengths are SIC's narrow product and geographic spread of risk and its reliance on third-party reinsurance. For Best's Ratings, an overview of the rating process and rating methodologies, please visit Best's Rating Center. Founded in 1899, A.M. Best Company is a global full-service credit rating organization dedicated to serving the financial and health care service industries, including insurance companies, banks, hospitals and health care system providers.   View a list of companies related to this press release. The list will include Best's Ratings along with links to additional company specific information including related news and reports.