author avatar
Xiomara Hoalcraft Surety Bond Specialist/Assistant Underwriter
Xiomara is a surety bond specialist and assistant underwriter at Bonds Express. Since joining the team in 2023, she has helped clients navigate the bonding process with confidence and ease. She is excited to introduce informative blog posts that will help clients better understand surety bonds and related requirements. When she's not assisting clients or writing articles, she enjoys running, hiking and making music at home.

How Does a Lost Instrument Bond Work? Uses and Application Steps

Quick Answer

A lost instrument bond allows a bank, corporation, transfer agent, or other issuer to replace a missing financial document while protecting itself if the original is presented later.

The person requesting the replacement purchases the bond. If the original document later causes a covered financial loss, the protected party may make a claim against the bond. The applicant may then be responsible for reimbursing the surety for a valid paid claim.

Contact the Issuer Before Applying For a Bond

Do not purchase a bond based only on the face value of the missing document. Start with the issuing bank or organization responsible for issuing the replacement.

Ask that organization for:

  • Its replacement-document packet (sometimes referred to as a Declaration of Loss Statement)
  • The required lost instrument bond form
  • The exact bond amount
  • The correct obligee name
  • Any required bond term or effective date
  • Affidavit, notarization, or supporting-document requirements

For a missing stock certificate, contact the company’s transfer agent and request a stop transfer. This helps prevent the missing certificate from being transferred while the replacement request is being processed.

Who is Involved in a Lost Instrument Bond?

A lost instrument bond normally involves three parties:

Party Role
Principal The person or business requesting the replacement document
Obligee The issuer, transfer agent, bank, or organization requiring the bond (JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and U.S. Bank)
Surety The company backing the bond and responding to valid claims

The bond primarily protects the obligee. It is not insurance that removes the applicant’s responsibility for the missing instrument.

Which Documents May Require a Lost Instrument Bond?

The issuer decides whether a bond is required. Common examples include:

Missing Instrument Start by Contacting
Stock certificate The corporation’s transfer agent
Corporate or municipal bond certificate The issuer, trustee, or transfer agent
Promissory note The lender, holder, or organization responsible for replacement
Certificate of deposit The issuing financial institution
Cashier’s or certified check The issuing bank
Other valuable financial certificate The organization that issued or maintains the instrument

Not every missing document requires a commercial lost instrument bond. For example, U.S. savings bonds have a separate Treasury replacement process. Follow the issuing organization’s instructions before applying.

A missing vehicle title also follows a different process. Vehicle ownership issues are handled through the applicable state motor vehicle agency and may require a lost title bond instead.

What Does the Bond Protect Against?

The risk appears when a replacement and the missing original could both be treated as valid.

For example, suppose a transfer agent issues a replacement stock certificate. The original certificate later reaches a protected purchaser who presents it for transfer. The issuer or transfer agent could suffer a financial loss because it issued the replacement.

The lost instrument bond provides financial protection for this risk, subject to the bond’s terms and amount.

Information Commonly Needed for the Application

Prepare the information supplied by the issuer along with details about the missing instrument:

  • Your legal name and address
  • The name of the issuing organization
  • Type of instrument
  • Certificate, account, serial, or identification number, if available
  • Issue date or maturity date, when applicable
  • Face value or current market value
  • Number of shares and ticker symbol for a stock certificate
  • Date and circumstances of the loss
  • Steps taken to locate the document
  • The issuer’s bond form and required amount
  • An affidavit of loss or police report, if requested

The surety may request additional information depending on the bond amount, instrument, and required bond language.

How to Apply for a Lost Instrument Bond

  1. Report the Missing Instrument. Notify the bank, transfer agent, or issuing organization. For securities, request a stop transfer as soon as you discover the loss.
  2. Request the Replacement Requirements. Obtain the issuer’s bond form, exact amount, and instructions. This prevents you from purchasing a bond that the issuer cannot accept.
  3. Complete the Affidavit and Supporting Documents. Explain when and how the instrument disappeared. Include identifying information and evidence that you are entitled to request the replacement.
  4. Submit the Bond Application. Provide the bond requirement and information about the missing instrument. Bonds Express currently has surety markets available only when the instrument has been missing for at least 30 days.
  5. Purchase and Sign the Bond. After receiving an acceptable quote, pay the premium and sign the bond as instructed.
  6. Submit the Bond to the Obligee. Send the signed bond and replacement documents to the bank, transfer agent, or issuer. The issuing organization, not the surety company, makes the final decision about replacing the instrument.

How Are the Bond Amount and Premium Determined?

The bond amount is the maximum financial obligation stated on the bond. The premium is the amount you pay to purchase that bond and is a percentage of the full bond amount (usually anywhere between 1-3%).

The obligee determines the required bond amount and form. It may use the instrument’s face value, current market value, or another calculation. Securities with changing market values can require different treatment from instruments with a fixed face value.

Because requirements vary, obtain the exact amount before requesting a quote. Do not assume that a standard multiplier applies to every instrument.

What Should You Do If the Original is Found?

Do not sell, transfer, deposit, or cash the original after requesting a replacement.

Contact the obligee that required the bond. They may instruct you to return the original for cancellation. If a stop transfer was placed and no replacement has been issued, contact the transfer agent before taking any further action.

Ready to Request Your Bond?

Once you have the required bond form and amount, you can request a lost instrument bond quote. Include the issuer’s instructions with your application so the bond can be reviewed for the correct obligation.

Request a lost instrument bond quote →

How to Get a Bonded Title With a Lost Title Bond

Quick Answer

To get a bonded title, first ask your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or other state title agency whether your vehicle qualifies. They may review your ownership documents, inspect the vehicle, determine its value, and provide the required bond amount. You then purchase the title bond and file it with the title application and other required documents.

The surety company provides the surety bond. Only the state can approve the application and issue the bonded title.

Check Whether You Need a Bonded Title

A bonded title is not the correct solution for every missing title.

Your Situation Where To Start
The title was issued in your name but was lost or damaged Apply for a duplicate or replacement title
You bought the vehicle but did not receive a properly assigned title Ask the state whether you qualify for a bonded title
Your ownership documents contain missing or conflicting information Request a title-record review
A lien is still listed on the vehicle Obtain a lien release or follow the state’s lien-resolution process
The vehicle is abandoned, stolen, junked, or classified as salvage Follow the state’s separate procedure for that vehicle status

If you are already the recorded owner, a replacement title may be faster and less expensive. A bonded title is generally used when you cannot establish a complete ownership record through the normal title process.

What is the Difference Between a Bonded Title and a Lost Title Bond?

The lost title bond is the surety bond you purchase as part of the application process. The bonded title is the vehicle title issued by the state after it approves your application.

The bond provides financial protection to a previous owner, lienholder, or another party who may have a valid ownership interest in the vehicle. It does not transfer ownership, remove an existing lien, or prevent another party from challenging your ownership claim.

How to Get a Bonded Title

1. Contact Your State’s Titling Agency

Contact the DMV or other agency responsible for vehicle titles in your state. Explain how you obtained the vehicle and why a standard title is unavailable. The agency can tell you whether the vehicle and your circumstances qualify for a bonded title.

Eligibility may depend on:

  • Your state of residence
  • The vehicle’s age and condition
  • Whether the vehicle is in your possession
  • Existing title and registration records
  • Open liens or security interests
  • Salvage, junk, theft, or abandoned-vehicle records
  • Whether you can contact the previous owner

Do not purchase a lost title bond until the state confirms that you qualify and provides the required bond amount.

2. Gather your Proof of Ownership

Provide every document you have showing how you obtained the vehicle, even if the paperwork does not establish a complete chain of ownership.

Helpful documents may include:

  • A Bill of sale
  • A Prior title or registration
  • A Purchase invoice
  • A Canceled check or other payment record
  • Correspondence with the seller
  • A Lien release
  • A Manufacturer’s certificate of origin
  • The previous owner’s contact information
  • Photographs of the vehicle

The DMV may search state and national title records before deciding whether a bonded title is available.

3. Complete any Required Inspection or Appraisal

Some states require a VIN inspection, vehicle photographs, an appraisal, or a law-enforcement inspection. Use the state’s approved form and inspector.

The inspection identifies the vehicle and helps the agency check for stolen-vehicle records, altered identification numbers, or conflicting title information.

4. Obtain the Required Bond Amount

The state may send a determination letter or other paperwork showing the required bond amount. Keep this paperwork because the surety will need it to prepare the correct bond.

Each state calculates the required amount differently. Do not rely solely on an online estimate of the vehicle’s value or calculate the bond amount yourself. Purchase the amount specified by the agency handling your title application.

5. Purchase the Lost Title Bond

To obtain the bond, you will generally need to provide:

  • The exact required bond amount
  • Your legal name and address
  • The vehicle’s year, make, and model
  • The vehicle identification number (VIN)
  • The state’s determination or approval letter, if provided
  • The requested bond effective date

The bond amount is not the amount you pay. You pay a premium, or price, for the bond. That price may depend on the required bond amount and the surety company’s underwriting requirements.

6. Sign and Submit the Bond

Carefully review the name, VIN, bond amount, and obligee before signing. An incorrect name, VIN, or bond amount could cause the state to reject the bond.

Submit the signed bond, often the original, together with the title application, proof of ownership, inspection documents, identification, lien releases, and government fees required by the state.

Your state may require you to submit the application within a certain period after the bond is issued. Follow the instructions and deadlines provided by the agency handling your application.

What Happens After You Apply?

The state reviews the complete application and decides whether to issue the title. Processing times can vary depending on the title search, inspections, notices, hearings, and completeness of the documents.

If approved, the title may display a bonded-title notation or brand for a state-defined period. Follow the state’s instructions for maintaining the bond. Do not request cancellation or allow the bond to lapse unless the state confirms that the bonded-title requirement has ended.

What Happens If Someone Else Claims the Vehicle?

A previous owner, lienholder, or another party may challenge your ownership during the bond period. If that party establishes a covered financial loss, they may file a claim against the bond.

The surety company will investigate the claim according to the bond’s terms. If the surety pays a valid claim, you may be responsible for reimbursing the surety for the amount paid.

The bond protects affected parties from financial loss. It does not guarantee that your ownership claim cannot be challenged.

Avoid These Common Bonded-Title Mistakes

  • Purchasing a bond before the state confirms eligibility
  • Estimating the bond amount yourself
  • Assuming a bond will remove an existing lien
  • Using a VIN or applicant name that differs from the title application
  • Submitting a copy when the state requires the original bond
  • Missing the state’s filing deadline after the bond is issued
  • Assuming the bond itself guarantees title approval

Ready to Purchase Your Lost Title Bond?

Once the state has confirmed your eligibility and provided the exact bond amount, Bonds Express can help you obtain the required bond. Have your state paperwork, bond amount, and vehicle information ready.

Request a lost title bond quote. →

How To Choose A Surety Bond Company: A Buyer’s Guide

Quick Answer

In a hurry? To choose a surety bond company, check that it is (1) properly licensed and Treasury-listed, (2) backed by an A-rated surety, (3) fast to approve, (4) transparent on pricing, (5) willing to work with your credit, (6) able to write your specific bond in your state, and (7) responsive if a claim ever comes in. Score any provider against those seven points and the right choice becomes obvious.

Learning how to choose a surety bond company matters more than most buyers expect. Two companies can quote the same bond and deliver very different experiences — different prices, different approval speed, and very different help if a claim is ever filed. This guide gives you a clear framework to compare providers so you get bonded quickly, at a fair price, with a company that will still be there when you need it.

Why The Surety Company You Choose Matters

A surety bond isn’t a commodity you buy once and forget. The company you choose determines what you pay (your premium is a percentage set by their underwriting), how fast you can get licensed or start a job, and how a claim against your bond is handled — which directly affects the money you may have to repay. A weak or slow provider can cost you a contract by missing a deadline, or cost you money by mishandling a claim. Choosing well protects your time, your cash, and your reputation.

7 Things To Look For In A Surety Bond Company

Use these seven criteria to evaluate any surety bond provider. The best choice is the one that clears all seven — not simply the cheapest quote.

1. Proper Licensing and Treasury Listing

The company (and the surety behind your bond) must be licensed to write bonds in your state. For many bonds, the surety should appear on the U.S. Treasury’s list of certified companies (the “T-list,” Circular 570). If a provider can’t show you this, walk away — an unlicensed bond may not be accepted by your obligee at all.

2. A Financially Strong, A-Rated Surety

Your bond is only as good as the surety guaranteeing it. Look for a surety rated “A” or better by A.M. Best. A strong rating means the bond will be honored and that obligees (licensing boards, project owners) will accept it without question.

3. Speed of Approval and Online Issuance

For most licenses and small commercial bonds, a good company approves and issues them in minutes to a day. If you need a bond to get licensed or win a job, speed is money. Providers that offer instant online surety bonds are usually the fastest.

4. Transparent Pricing With No Hidden Fees

Your premium should be quoted clearly as a percentage of the bond amount, with no vague “processing” surcharges. A trustworthy company explains what drives your rate and what you’ll pay to renew. Compare the full cost, not just the first-year teaser — see what a surety bond costs for realistic benchmarks.

5. Willingness to Work With Your Credit

Because most bond pricing is credit-based, the right company for you may depend on your credit profile. The best providers can place bonds across the credit spectrum, including bad credit surety bonds and approval with challenged credit, rather than declining you outright.

6. The Range of Bonds and States They Cover

Choose a company that can write your exact bond in your exact state — and ideally other bonds you may need later. A provider that handles many types of surety bonds across all states saves you from juggling multiple providers as your business grows.

7. Responsive Support and Fair Claims Handling

One day you may have a question, a renewal, or — worst case — a claim. A good company answers quickly and guides you through the surety bond claim process fairly. Slow, hard-to-reach support is a real cost when a deadline or a claim is on the line.

Direct Writer vs. Agency vs. Broker — What’s the Difference?

Buyers are often confused about who they’re actually buying from. There are three models, and each affects your price and experience:

Model Who They Are What It Means For You
Direct writer The surety company itself You deal with the source; can be fast, but limited to that surety’s appetite and rates
Agency Represents several sureties Can shop your bond across markets to find approval and a better rate — helpful for tougher cases
Broker Places bonds through agencies/sureties Adds a layer; useful for complex or large bonds

For most standard license and commercial bonds, a specialized agency that represents multiple A-rated sureties gives you the best of both worlds: competitive pricing and more approval options, especially if your credit or bond type is unusual.

Red Flags to Avoid When Choosing a Bond Provider

Not every “bond seller” online is legitimate. Watch for these warning signs:

  • Large upfront “processing” or “application” fees before any quote. Bond cost is your premium — not a separate fee to apply.
  • No license or Treasury listing you can verify. If you can’t confirm they’re authorized, don’t buy.
  • Pressure tactics or “today only” pricing. Legitimate bond pricing is based on underwriting, not urgency.
  • No physical presence, no phone support, no real reviews. You want a company you can reach when a claim or renewal comes up.

If a requirement or “provider” feels off, verify it with your licensing authority before paying anyone.

Questions to Ask Before You Buy

A quick call or email should answer all of these:

  • Which surety backs this bond, and what is its A.M. Best rating?
  • Are you licensed to write this bond in my state?
  • What exactly will I pay this year and at renewal?
  • How fast can you issue my bond?
  • What happens, step by step, if a claim is filed against my bond?

If a provider dodges any of these, keep looking.

Why Businesses Choose BondsExpress

BondsExpress works to secure the lowest possible premium rate for each customer. The company aims to provide quote approvals within 24–48 hours, helping customers move forward without unnecessary delays. Customers can also expect responsive service, as BondsExpress answers every phone call and works to avoid long hold times.

Ready to compare? Get a free quote and see your bond price in minutes — then measure us against the seven criteria above.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • There’s no single “best” company for everyone — the right choice depends on your bond type, your state, and your credit. The best provider for you is the one that’s properly licensed, backed by an A-rated surety, fast, transparent on price, and willing to work with your credit profile.
  • Not necessarily. A specialized agency can shop your bond across multiple sureties, which often finds a better rate or an approval a single direct writer can’t offer — especially for harder-to-place cases.
  • Your premium is based on the bond amount, bond type, and your credit — set through underwriting. Different companies have access to different sureties, so quotes can vary; it’s worth comparing.
  • Often yes, especially at renewal. If you’re unhappy with price or service, you can usually move your bond — confirm timing so you don’t have a coverage gap on a required bond.


How To Get A Home Improvement License In NJ: Application And Bond Requirements

Quick Answer

To get what is commonly called a home improvement license in New Jersey, you must register your business as a Home Improvement Contractor Business, or HICB, with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.

Initial applicants must submit a completed application, business formation documents, insurance certificates, proof of additional financial security, and the $110 application fee.

Buy Your NJ Home Improvement Contractor Bond →

Is It A License Or A Contractor Registration?

The credential currently issued to a home improvement contractor business is an HICB registration. Contractors and customers commonly call it a license, but the active application process is for business registration.

New Jersey has also established a State Board of Home Improvement and Home Elevation Contractors to administer individual contractor licensing. The steps below cover the HICB business registration that contractors can currently apply for through the Division of Consumer Affairs.

Who Must Register As A Home Improvement Contractor?

A business that sells or performs home improvements on existing residential property in New Jersey generally must register. This includes:

  • Sole proprietors and other business entities
  • General contractors
  • Remodelers
  • Roofers, painters, flooring installers, and landscapers
  • Subcontractors working under another contractor
  • Part-time contractors and handymen performing covered work
  • Out-of-state contractors working on New Jersey properties

Home improvement work includes remodeling, painting, repairing, renovating, installing, replacing, or making additions to residential property. It can include work on kitchens, bathrooms, basements, roofing, siding, driveways, patios, swimming pools, fencing, and landscaping.

Construction of a new residence is not considered home improvement work under this registration law.

Some exemptions apply, including certain new home builders, people working on property they or a family member own, and professionals performing work within the scope of another state-issued license.

How To Get A Home Improvement License In NJ

1. Prepare Your Business Documents

The documents required depend on how your business is organized:

  • Sole proprietorships and partnerships generally need a Trade Name Certificate.
  • Corporations need a Certificate of Incorporation.
  • LLCs and LLPs need a Certificate of Formation.
  • Out-of-state corporations need a New Jersey Certificate of Authority and formation documents from their home state.
  • Businesses using an alternate name need the applicable alternate-name registration.

You will also need your business address, mailing address, contact information, Federal Employer Identification Number, and information about the business owners or principals.

Use the same legal business name and address on your formation documents, insurance certificates, bond, and application. Mismatched information can delay approval.

2. Obtain The Required Insurance

Every HICB must maintain commercial general liability insurance of at least $500,000 per occurrence.

The certificate should show:

  • The insured business name
  • The business address
  • The policy number
  • The policy’s effective and expiration dates
  • Coverage of at least $500,000 per occurrence

Home improvement contractor businesses must also carry workers’ compensation insurance unless legally exempt. If you are claiming an exemption, prepare documentation explaining why the business is exempt.

3. Obtain The Required Bond Or Other Security

New Jersey requires every HICB to maintain additional financial security throughout its registration. This may be provided through a compliance surety bond, an irrevocable letter of credit, or another form of security accepted by the Division.

The required amount depends on your individual contracts and the total value of contracts entered into during the previous 12 months.

Required Security Contract Thresholds
$10,000 A contract under $10,000 or total contracts under $150,000 during the previous 12 months
$25,000 A contract from $10,000 through $120,000 or total contracts from $150,000 through $750,000 during the previous 12 months
$50,000 A contract over $120,000 or total contracts over $750,000 during the previous 12 months

Review both figures. If either your largest contract or your previous 12 months of contracts falls into a higher tier, use the higher security amount.

The bond or other security must be effective on or before the date you submit the registration application. One properly sized security is sufficient. You do not need a separate bond for every customer, contract, or municipality.

Once you know your required amount, you can purchase a New Jersey home improvement contractor bond in the appropriate $10,000, $25,000, or $50,000 amount.

The bond amount is not the price you pay. You pay a premium to obtain the bond rather than depositing the entire required amount with the state.

4. Complete The Initial Registration Application

Complete every question on the Home Improvement Contractor Application for Initial Registration. Write “N/A” when a question does not apply instead of leaving it blank.

Include copies of the required documents, such as:

  • Business formation or trade-name documents
  • Commercial general liability insurance certificate
  • Workers’ compensation insurance certificate or exemption documentation
  • Proof of the required bond or other additional security
  • Any documents required for ownership or background disclosures
  • The $110 non-refundable application fee

5. Mail The Completed Application

Initial registration applications must currently be submitted by mail to:

New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs
Office of Consumer Protection
Home Improvement Unit
124 Halsey Street, 7th Floor
P.O. Box 46016
Newark, NJ 07101

Initial applications are submitted on paper. The online MyLicense portal is used for annual renewals, not initial applications.

Do not advertise, sell, or perform covered home improvement work until the business registration has been issued.

How Much Does A NJ Home Improvement Contractor Registration Cost?

Requirement Cost
Initial registration application $110
Commercial general liability insurance Varies by policy
Workers’ compensation insurance Varies, unless legally exempt
Compliance bond Premium varies by the required bond amount
Letter of credit or other security Determined by the issuing institution

There is no single total cost because insurance and financial-security costs depend on the business and the option selected.

Do You Need To Pass an Exam?

The current HICB business registration application does not list an examination as a requirement.

This applies to the business registration process covered in this guide. Contractors should follow future notices from the State Board of Home Improvement and Home Elevation Contractors concerning the separate individual licensing system.

What Must You Do After Registration?

Once registered, the business must:

  • Renew its HICB registration annually by March 31
  • Keep its liability insurance, workers’ compensation coverage, and additional security active
  • Display its registration number at its place of business
  • Include the registration number in advertisements, on business cards, commercial vehicles, contracts, and business documents
  • Use a written contract for home improvement projects costing more than $500

The initial application and annual renewal are separate processes. Initial applications are submitted on paper, while renewal applications are completed online.

Disclaimer
✓
This guide provides general information and is not legal advice. Bonds Express provides surety bonds but does not issue or manage New Jersey contractor registrations. Requirements may change, so confirm current application requirements with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs before applying.

New Jersey Home Improvement Contractor License Renewal 2027: Deadline and Bond Requirements

Quick Answer

New Jersey home improvement contractor registrations expire on March 31 each year. The regular online renewal period runs from on or around January 15 through March 30. The state renewal fee is $90.

Contractors who renew in April must pay an additional $25 late fee. Registrations that are not renewed by April 30 change to expired status on or around May 1 and require reinstatement.

New Jersey Contractor Renewal Dates and Fees for 2027

Renewal stage Date State fee
Regular renewal period On or around January 15 through March 30, 2027 $90
Registration expiration March 31, 2027 Not applicable
Late renewal period April 1 through April 30, 2027 $115 total
Reinstatement period After April 30, 2027 $140

The $115 late renewal fee includes the regular $90 fee and the additional $25 late fee.

These are state registration fees. They do not include the cost of renewing or purchasing a compliance bond. The bond premium is paid separately to the bond provider.

What Do You Need For Renewal?

Before starting the online renewal, prepare:

  • Your current contractor registration number and portal login
  • Proof of commercial general liability insurance of at least $500,000 per occurrence
  • Proof of workers’ compensation insurance
  • A signed and dated exemption letter if your business is legally exempt from workers’ compensation insurance
  • Proof of additional security, such as a compliance bond or irrevocable letter of credit
  • The applicable state renewal fee
  • Current formation documents or an annual report, if requested for your business

Make sure the business name and address on your insurance and security documents match the information in the state’s records. Mismatched information can delay the application.

Renewals must be completed online. Paper renewal applications are not accepted.

Make Sure Your Bond Remains Active

New Jersey home improvement contractor businesses must maintain additional security throughout their registration. This requirement can be satisfied with a compliance surety bond, an irrevocable letter of credit, or another form of security accepted by the state.

If you use a compliance bond, it must be effective on or before the date you submit the registration renewal. A future effective date may cause the document to be rejected.

The state registration and the compliance bond are renewed separately. Paying the $90 state fee does not renew your bond, and paying your bond premium does not renew your state registration.

Check Your Required Bond Amount

Your required security amount depends on the value of your individual contracts or the total value of contracts entered into during the previous 12 months.

Bond Amount When it is Required
$10,000 A contract under $10,000 or less than $150,000 in contracts during the previous 12 months
$25,000 A contract from $10,000 to $120,000 or $150,000 to $750,000 in contracts during the previous 12 months
$50,000 A contract over $120,000 or more than $750,000 in contracts during the previous 12 months

Review your largest contract and your total contract value for the previous 12 months. If either calculation places your business in a higher tier, your security must meet the higher amount.

If you need a new bond, a replacement, or a higher bond amount, you can purchase a NJ Home Improvement Contractor Bond online.

If you already have a Bonds Express bond and received a renewal invoice, you can renew your existing bond online using your policy number, customer number, and invoice information.

How To Renew Your Registration

  1. Sign in to the New Jersey online registration portal.
  2. Select the home improvement contractor business renewal.
  3. Confirm that your business name and address match the state’s records.
  4. Enter your general liability, workers’ compensation, and additional security information.
  5. Upload the required documents.
  6. Pay the applicable state renewal fee.
  7. Submit the application and save the confirmation.

If your business information has changed, follow the state’s process for submitting a special request. Do not upload insurance or bond documents showing a different business name or address without first addressing the discrepancy.

What Happens If You Miss The Deadline?

Registrations not renewed by March 31 enter the late renewal period. From April 1 through April 30, the state renewal fee increases from $90 to $115.

After April 30, the standard renewal option is no longer available. You must submit an online reinstatement application and pay the $140 state reinstatement fee. Paper reinstatement applications are returned.

A contractor with an expired registration cannot legally offer or perform home improvement work that requires registration in New Jersey.

The dates, fees, and requirements were verified against the New Jersey renewal instructions and official HICB requirements. These source links are for your verification and are not part of the blog post.

Upcoming Surety Bond Renewal Dates by Month

Quick Answer

Surety bond renewal dates vary by bond. Some bonds expire on a fixed date each year, while others remain continuous but require an annual premium or proof of coverage during license renewal.

Use the calendar below to identify common deadlines for Bonds Express products. Your bond form, continuation certificate, renewal invoice, and licensing notice should determine your exact renewal date.

Renew Your Bond →

Annual Surety Bond Renewal Calendar

Date Bonds with this annual deadline What the date means
January 31 $1,000 California Guide License Bond The bond must cover the guide license term from February 1 through January 31.
March 31 $10,000 Maine Auctioneer Bond, $50,000 New Mexico Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond and $12,500 New Mexico Motorcycle Dealer Bond These annual licenses and their required bond coverage run through March 31.
March 31 New Jersey Home Improvement Contractor Bond New Jersey contractor registrations expire March 31. The bond may be continuous, but it must remain active for the renewed registration period.
April 30 $25,000 Florida Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond and $25,000 Florida Motor Vehicle Salvage Dealer Bond Independent, wholesale, auction and salvage dealer bond terms run from May 1 through April 30.
June 30 $10,000 Minnesota Credit Services Organization Bond, North Dakota Livestock Dealer Bond and $1,000 West Virginia Non-Intoxicating Beer Bond These licenses renew annually for a new term beginning July 1. North Dakota may adjust the livestock dealer bond amount based on business volume.
July 31 Alabama Warehouseman Bond Alabama public warehouseman permits and their bond periods end July 31. The required amount can depend on the type and capacity of the warehouse.
September 30 $5,000 Alabama Polygraph Examiner Bond, $20,000 Illinois Plumbing Contractor Bond and $10,000 Florida Recreational Vehicle Dealer Bond These license or bond terms end September 30. A continuation certificate may be accepted when the bond remains continuous.
October 31 $5,000 California Tax Preparer Bond CTEC registration renews annually by October 31. The bond must be current, although its individual expiration date may be different.
November 30 New York (County of Rockland) Precious Metal and Secondhand Gem Dealer Bond The Rockland County license runs through November 30 and requires $2,000 in approved security.
December 1 Minnesota (City of Minneapolis) Specialty Contractor Bond – $10,000 The residential specialty contractor license year ends December 1. The city bond is continuing, so confirm that coverage remains active for the next license year.
December 31 $50,000 Nebraska Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond and $100,000 Nebraska Motor Vehicle Auction Dealer Bond Nebraska dealer licenses and bonds cover a calendar-year term ending December 31.
December 31 $50,000 Illinois Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond Illinois dealer licenses expire annually on December 31. The state generally requires the dealer bond during the first 60 consecutive months of operation, unless continued bonding is required because of a deficiency or delinquency.
December 31 Massachusetts Mortgage Broker Bond and Massachusetts Mortgage Lender Bond These are continuous bonds. When coverage depends on an annual premium, the renewal date should be December 31.
December 31 Texas (City of Dallas) Paving Bond – $10,000, Texas (City of San Antonio) Sidewalk, Curbs, Gutter & Driveways Bond – $2,000 and $500 Wyoming Employment Agency Bond These bonds are connected to annual licenses, registrations or bond terms ending December 31.

Not Every Recurring Deadline is Annual

Some bonds and licenses renew every two years rather than annually. Check the year printed on your license, bond or renewal notice before purchasing another term.

Bond Recurring schedule
Georgia Used Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond September 30 in even-numbered years
New York City Home Improvement Contractor Bond February 28 in odd-numbered years
Pennsylvania Auctioneer Bond February 28 in odd-numbered years
Florida Talent Agency Bond May 31 in even-numbered years
New Hampshire Public Adjuster Bond October 1 of the second calendar year after issuance
South Carolina Public Adjuster Bond Even-numbered-year license renewal cycle
New York Public Adjuster Bond December 31 in even-numbered years

Check the year shown on your license and bond before purchasing another term.

Does a Surety Bond Renew Automatically?

Some surety bonds are issued for a fixed term and must be renewed or replaced before they expire. Continuous bonds remain active until canceled, but an annual premium may still be required.

A license renewal and a surety bond renewal are separate transactions. Paying the bond premium does not renew your government license, registration or permit.

Check These Details Before Renewing

Before submitting a surety bond renewal, confirm:

  • The expiration date shown on the existing bond or continuation certificate
  • The legal business name and address
  • The correct government agency or obligee
  • The current required bond amount
  • Whether a continuation certificate or new bond is required
  • Whether the agency accepts electronic filing or requires an original bond
  • Whether the related license must be renewed separately

If you received a Bonds Express renewal invoice, renew your existing surety bond online using the policy or bond number, customer number, principal name and invoice total.

Probate Bond Explained: A First-Time Executor’s Guide

Quick Answer

A probate bond protects an estate’s beneficiaries and creditors against covered financial losses if its executor or administrator fails to perform their duties properly.

If the court requires you to obtain one, your first step is to confirm the required bond amount, bond form, and filing deadline with your probate attorney. You pay a premium for the bond, which is different from the amount of protection the court requires.

How Does a Probate Bond Work?

A probate bond involves three parties:

  • Principal: The executor or administrator responsible for the estate.
  • Obligee: The court requiring the bond.
  • Surety: The company issuing the bond.

If you misuse estate funds or fail to fulfill your duties, an eligible party may file a claim. Whether the surety pays depends on the bond terms and applicable legal process.

The bond protects others from covered losses. It does not remove your personal responsibility. Under the indemnity agreement, you generally must reimburse the surety for payments and expenses covered by that agreement.

For example, using estate money for personal purchases could lead to a claim. Keep estate funds separate from your own and retain records of every payment.

When Is a Probate Bond Required?

The requirement depends on state law, the will, and the court’s decision. A court may require a bond when there is no effective waiver or when circumstances warrant additional protection.

A bond waiver removes the bonding requirement when legally permitted and accepted by the court. Even if the will waives bond, the court may still have authority to require one.

Before applying, ask your attorney to confirm:

  • Whether a bond is required in your case.
  • The exact amount and acceptable bond form.
  • When filing must occur as part of your appointment.

Being named in a will does not by itself give you authority to begin distributing assets.

Which Probate Bond Should You Apply For?

Match the bond to your appointment documents. Similar product names do not guarantee that the forms are interchangeable.

How Much Is a Probate Bond?

The bond amount is the financial protection required by the court. The premium is the price charged to issue the bond.

For illustration, if the court requires a $100,000 bond and your approved premium is $500, the quoted price is $500. This is a calculation example, not a Bonds Express rate or offer.

Pricing depends on the required amount and underwriting factors, including personal credit and financial strength. Before accepting a quote, confirm:

  • The initial premium and any additional charges.
  • Whether renewal premiums will apply.
  • Whether there is a minimum or nonrefundable premium.
  • How the premium should be paid or reimbursed through the estate.

Keep the invoice with your estate records.

How to Get a Probate Bond Without Unnecessary Delays

  1. Gather the case details. Have the estate name, court documents, case number, required bond amount, and your attorney’s contact information ready. Ask which supporting documents are needed, such as the petition, appointment papers, or estate asset details.
  2. Complete the application accurately. Use names exactly as they appear in the court documents. Missing information or an incorrect amount can require corrections before issuance.
  3. Review the quote and agreement. Check the premium, renewal terms, and your reimbursement obligations. Bonds Express’s executor and administrator product pages state that good personal credit and an attorney’s involvement are required.
  4. Check and file the issued bond. After approval and payment, verify the names, amount, and court details. Arrange filing with your attorney and confirm that the court accepts it.

Receiving the bond does not complete your appointment. Confirm any remaining court requirements before acting for the estate.

What Happens to the Bond When Probate Ends?

Ask your attorney what court documents are needed to release the bond, then ask the bond provider how to submit them. Do not assume that distributing the estate automatically stops renewal charges.

A premium pays for the bond and is not a deposit automatically returned when probate ends. Refund eligibility depends on the agreement and applicable rules.

Before paying, ask the provider: “What documentation stops renewals, and is any part of the premium refundable?” Keep the written answer and final release documents with your estate records.

Union Wage and Welfare Bond Explained: Requirements, Cost & How to Get One

Quick Answer

A union wage and welfare bond is a surety bond that guarantees an employer’s contributions to union wages and benefit funds — pension, health and welfare, training, and other multi-employer trust funds. It protects the trust funds and union members if the employer fails to make required contributions. Bond amounts are set by the collective bargaining agreement or trust fund. You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, not the full amount.

Employers that sign on to a union collective bargaining agreement (CBA) often must post a surety bond guaranteeing their contributions to multi-employer trust funds — pension, health and welfare, training, vacation, and others. The bond, commonly called a union wage and welfare bond or fringe benefit bond, protects those funds and the union members who depend on them. This guide explains how it works.

For how these bonds work in general, see what is a surety bond.

Who Needs a Union Wage and Welfare Bond

  • Contractors and employers who sign a collective bargaining agreement with a union
  • Employers that contribute to multi-employer pension, health, and welfare funds
  • Construction contractors signed to union agreements (a frequent source of these bonds)
  • Other unionized employers whose CBA or trust agreement requires bonding

Whether you need a bond, and the bond amount, is set by your collective bargaining agreement or the relevant trust fund documents. Common bond amounts run from a few thousand dollars to $50,000 or more, depending on the size of the workforce and the value of the contributions.

Bond amount comes from the CBA or trust fund

Union wage and welfare bond requirements are negotiated into the collective bargaining agreement or set by the trust fund’s rules. Confirm the exact bond amount and required form with the union or trust fund administrator before purchasing.

What the Bond Covers

  • Unpaid wages owed under the collective bargaining agreement
  • Unpaid contributions to pension, health and welfare, training, vacation, and other trust funds
  • Unpaid union dues check-offs that the employer was required to remit
  • Penalties and interest on unpaid contributions

If an employer fails to pay wages or remit contributions, the trust funds or the union can file a claim against the bond. The surety reviews claims, pays valid claims up to the bond amount, and collects reimbursement from the employer under the indemnity agreement.

Estimated Cost of a Union Wage and Welfare Bond

You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, based on a soft credit pull. Because these bonds back ongoing wage and benefit contributions, premium rates vary with credit and the size of the employer. General first-year premiums commonly fall in the range of roughly 1% to 3% of the bond amount for good-credit applicants.

About these prices
✓
Figures shown are estimated 1-year premiums and vary by applicant. Multi-year terms may be available at a discount. For an exact, verified quote, request a free quote or contact our team.

Bond amounts often map to standard tiers like the $10,000, $25,000, or $50,000 surety bond pages. Browse union bonds. For full pricing, see the surety bond cost guide.

Getting the Bond with Credit Challenges

Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. See bad credit surety bonds.

How to Get a Union Wage and Welfare Bond

  1. Confirm the requirement. Get the bond amount and required form from your union or trust fund administrator.
  2. Apply. Provide business information and authorize a soft credit pull. Financial statements may be requested (if required).
  3. Get your quote and pay. Turnaround may take from same day to a couple of business days.
  4. File with the union or trust fund. Submit the bond as required by the CBA or fund administrator.

Frequently asked questions

  • It’s a surety bond that guarantees an employer’s contributions to union wages and benefit funds — pension, health and welfare, training, vacation, and other multi-employer trust funds. It protects those funds and union members if the employer fails to make required contributions.
  • Employers that sign a collective bargaining agreement with a union and contribute to multi-employer trust funds. Construction contractors signed to union agreements are the most common bonded employers, but other unionized employers can also need these bonds.
  • You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, based on a soft credit pull. General first-year premiums commonly fall in the range of roughly 1% to 3% of the bond amount for good-credit applicants. These are estimated 1-year premiums; multi-year terms may be available at a discount.
  • The bond amount is set by your collective bargaining agreement or the relevant trust fund’s rules. Common amounts run from a few thousand dollars to $50,000 or more, depending on the size of the workforce and the value of contributions. Confirm with the union or fund administrator.
  • It covers unpaid wages under the CBA, unpaid contributions to pension, health and welfare, training, vacation, and other trust funds, unpaid union dues check-offs, and penalties and interest on unpaid contributions. The trust funds or union file claims against the bond.
  • Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. A soft credit pull is typically used during the application.
  • Most are issued for an annual term and renew alongside the collective bargaining agreement. Multi-year terms may be available at a discount. The bond stays in force as long as the CBA or trust fund requires it.
  • No. You pay only the premium — a percentage of the bond amount — not the full bond. The bond amount is the maximum the surety would pay on a valid claim.

Continue learning

What is a surety bond? — the basics.
Types of surety bonds — where union bonds fit.
Bad credit surety bonds — options for credit-challenged employers.
Surety bond cost guide — how pricing works.
Browse union bonds — find your union or fund bond.

Need a union wage and welfare bond?

BondsExpress writes union wage and welfare bonds — also called fringe benefit bonds — for contractors and unionized employers nationwide. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. Request a free quote for an exact rate.

Get your union wage and welfare bond quote →


US Customs Bond Explained: Activity Codes, Cost & How to Get One

Quick Answer

A US customs bond is a surety bond required by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to import commercial goods into the United States, secure international carriers and freight, or operate a foreign trade zone. It guarantees payment of duties, taxes, and fees and compliance with customs regulations. Importers choose between a single transaction bond (one shipment) and a continuous bond (one year of all shipments). You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount.

US Customs bonds are required by CBP for nearly any commercial activity involving imported goods. The bond type depends on what you’re doing — importing goods (Activity Code 1), operating as an international carrier (3), running a foreign trade zone (4), and so on. This guide covers the main customs bonds, single vs. continuous options, estimated cost, and how to get bonded.

For how these bonds work in general, see what is a surety bond.

Customs Bond Activity Codes

CBP uses activity codes to classify customs bonds:

  • Activity Code 1 — Importer/Broker: the most common; for importers and customs brokers
  • Activity Code 2 — Custodian of Bonded Merchandise: for warehouses and carriers handling bonded merchandise
  • Activity Code 3 — International Carrier: for vessels, aircraft, and vehicles transporting goods internationally
  • Activity Code 4 — Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Operator: for businesses operating a foreign trade zone
  • Additional codes cover other specialized customs activities

If you’re an importer, you’ll most often need an Activity Code 1 bond.

Single Transaction vs. Continuous Bond

Importers choose between two formats:

  • Single transaction bond: covers one specific shipment. The bond amount is typically the value of the goods plus duties, taxes, and fees, with a minimum.
  • Continuous bond: covers all of an importer’s shipments for a full year. The bond amount is typically 10% of the duties, taxes, and fees paid in the prior year, with a $50,000 minimum.

Importers who bring in more than a few shipments per year almost always find the continuous bond more economical.

Continuous bond is the standard for active importers

If you import regularly, a continuous bond is usually the better choice — one annual bond covers all shipments and avoids the per-shipment paperwork of single transaction bonds. The $50,000 minimum applies to most continuous importer bonds.

What Customs Bonds Cover

  • Payment of duties, taxes, and fees owed to CBP
  • Compliance with customs regulations and entry requirements
  • Penalties or liquidated damages assessed by CBP

If an importer fails to pay duties or comply with regulations, CBP can file a claim against the bond. The surety pays valid claims up to the bond amount and collects reimbursement from the importer under the indemnity agreement.

Estimated Cost of a US Customs Bond

You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, based on a soft credit pull and the importer’s qualifications. General guidance:

  • Single transaction bond: pricing varies with the value of the shipment
  • Continuous bond ($50,000 minimum): first-year premiums commonly start in the range of roughly $500 to $1,500 for good-credit applicants, scaling up for larger bond amounts
About these prices
✓
Figures shown are estimated 1-year premiums and vary by applicant. Multi-year terms may be available at a discount. For an exact, verified quote, request a free quote or contact our team.

Browse US customs bonds — example products: Activity Code 1 importer bond and the Activity Code 1a continuous importer bond over $50,000. For full pricing, see the surety bond cost guide.

Getting the Bond with Credit Challenges

Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. See bad credit surety bonds.

How to Get a US Customs Bond

  1. Identify the right activity code and choose single transaction or continuous.
  2. Determine the bond amount. For continuous bonds, typically 10% of prior-year duties/taxes/fees, $50,000 minimum.
  3. Apply. Provide business information, EIN, and authorize a soft credit pull.
  4. Get your quote and pay. Turnaround may take from same day to a couple of business days.
  5. File with CBP. The bond is filed electronically with CBP under your importer record.

Frequently asked questions

  • It’s a surety bond required by US Customs and Border Protection to import commercial goods, operate as an international carrier, run a foreign trade zone, or perform other customs activities. It guarantees payment of duties, taxes, and fees and compliance with customs regulations.
  • A single transaction bond covers one specific shipment. A continuous bond covers all of an importer’s shipments for a full year. Continuous bonds (with a $50,000 minimum) are usually more economical for importers bringing in more than a few shipments per year.
  • A continuous customs bond covers all of an importer’s shipments for one year and renews annually. The bond amount is typically 10% of the duties, taxes, and fees paid in the prior year, with a $50,000 minimum. It’s the standard choice for active importers.
  • You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, based on a soft credit pull. For a continuous bond at the $50,000 minimum, first-year premiums commonly start in the range of roughly $500 to $1,500 for good-credit applicants. These are estimated 1-year premiums; rates scale with bond amount.
  • It covers payment of duties, taxes, and fees owed to CBP, compliance with customs regulations and entry requirements, and penalties or liquidated damages assessed by CBP. CBP files claims against the bond if an importer defaults.
  • Activity Code 1 is CBP’s classification for the most common customs bond type — the importer/customs broker bond. Most importers need an Activity Code 1 bond. Other codes cover bonded warehouses, international carriers, foreign trade zones, and other specialized activities.
  • Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. A soft credit pull is typically used during the application.
  • A continuous customs bond covers one full year and renews annually as long as it’s needed. Multi-year terms are not typical for customs bonds — they renew annually based on the importer’s prior-year activity.

Continue learning

What is a surety bond? — the basics.
Types of surety bonds — where customs bonds fit.
Bad credit surety bonds — options for credit-challenged importers.
Surety bond cost guide — how pricing works.
Browse US customs bonds — find the right activity code bond.

Need a US customs bond?

BondsExpress writes US customs bonds — single transaction, continuous importer, and the full range of CBP activity codes. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. Request a free quote for an exact rate.

Get your US customs bond quote →


Utility Deposit Bond Explained: Requirements, Cost & How to Get One

Quick Answer

A utility deposit bond is a surety bond a customer can post in place of a cash security deposit a utility company requires for service. It guarantees the customer will pay for the utility service used. Businesses with significant cash deposits often use these bonds to free up working capital. You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, not the full amount, based on a soft credit pull.

Utility companies — electric, gas, water, sewer, telecommunications — often require security deposits before providing service, particularly to businesses or to customers with limited credit history. A utility deposit bond lets the customer satisfy that requirement with a surety bond instead of tying up cash. This guide explains how it works.

For how these bonds work in general, see what is a surety bond.

How a Utility Deposit Bond Works

The mechanics:

  • The utility company requires a security deposit, often equal to two or three months of estimated usage
  • Instead of paying cash, the customer posts a surety bond for that amount
  • The utility accepts the bond as an alternative form of security (if permitted)
  • The customer’s cash stays free for working capital and other uses

If the customer fails to pay the utility bill, the utility can file a claim against the bond. The surety pays valid claims up to the bond amount, and the customer reimburses the surety under the indemnity agreement.

Confirm the utility accepts a bond

Not every utility accepts a surety bond in place of cash. Confirm acceptance and the required bond amount and form with the specific utility before purchasing the bond.

Who Uses Utility Deposit Bonds

  • Commercial customers with large deposit requirements (manufacturing, hospitality, large offices)
  • Businesses opening new locations that face high upfront utility deposits
  • Customers with limited credit history that would otherwise face larger deposits
  • Property owners or managers consolidating deposits across multiple meters

What the Bond Covers

  • Unpaid utility charges by the customer
  • Other amounts the customer owes the utility under the service agreement

The utility files a claim if the customer defaults. The surety reviews claims, pays valid claims up to the bond amount, and collects reimbursement from the customer under the indemnity agreement.

Estimated Cost of a Utility Deposit Bond

You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, based on a soft credit pull. General first-year premiums commonly fall between roughly 1% and 3% of the bond amount for good-credit applicants — for example, $100 to $300 on a $10,000 bond.

About these prices
✓
Figures shown are estimated 1-year premiums and vary by applicant. Multi-year (3-year) terms may be available at a discount. For an exact, verified quote, request a free quote or contact our team.

Bond amounts often map to standard tiers like the $10,000 or $25,000 surety bond pages. Browse utility bonds. For full pricing, see the surety bond cost guide.

Getting the Bond with Credit Challenges

Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. See bad credit surety bonds.

How to Get a Utility Deposit Bond

  1. Confirm acceptance and the required amount with the specific utility company.
  2. Apply. Provide business information and authorize a soft credit pull.
  3. Get your quote and pay. Turnaround may take from same day to a couple of business days.
  4. File with the utility. Submit the bond to the utility in place of the cash deposit.

Frequently asked questions

  • It’s a surety bond a customer can post in place of a cash security deposit required by a utility company. It guarantees the customer will pay for utility service used. Businesses use these bonds to avoid tying up significant cash in utility deposits.
  • You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, based on a soft credit pull. General first-year premiums commonly fall between roughly 1% and 3% of the bond amount for good-credit applicants — for example, $100 to $300 on a $10,000 bond. These are estimated 1-year premiums; multi-year terms may be available at a discount.
  • No. Acceptance varies by utility company. Confirm with the specific utility that it accepts a surety bond as an alternative to a cash deposit, and confirm the required bond amount and form, before purchasing.
  • Commercial customers with large deposit requirements, businesses opening new locations facing high upfront deposits, customers with limited credit history, and property owners or managers consolidating deposits across multiple meters.
  • It covers unpaid utility charges by the customer and other amounts the customer owes the utility under the service agreement. The utility files a claim if the customer defaults.
  • Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. A soft credit pull is typically used during the application.
  • The bond frees up cash for working capital and other business uses while still satisfying the utility’s deposit requirement. For larger deposits, the premium is typically a small fraction of what the cash deposit would tie up.
  • Most are issued for an annual term and renew as long as the utility account is active and the bond is still required. Multi-year terms may be available at a discount.

Continue learning

What is a surety bond? — the basics.
Types of surety bonds — where utility bonds fit.
Bad credit surety bonds — options for credit-challenged applicants.
Surety bond cost guide — how pricing works.
Browse utility bonds — find your utility bond.

Need a utility deposit bond?

BondsExpress writes utility deposit bonds for electric, gas, water, sewer, and telecom utilities nationwide, helping businesses preserve working capital instead of locking it up in deposits. Request a free quote for an exact rate.

Get your utility deposit bond quote →


Bid Bond Guide: Free Bid Bonds, Cost & How to Get Bonded

Quick Answer

A bid bond guarantees that if your construction bid is accepted, you will enter into the contract at your bid price and provide the required performance and payment bonds. Bid bonds are issued 100% FREE by BondsExpress — you pay nothing until you win the project. You can get a bid bond with bad credit, and most approvals happen within 24 hours.

What is a Bid Bond?

A bid bond guarantees that if your construction bid is accepted, you will:

The best part? Bid bonds are issued 100% FREE by BondsExpress.

You don’t pay anything until you win the project you’re bidding on.

How Bid Bonds Work

Three parties are involved:

  • You (the Contractor) — Submit bid + free bid bond
  • Project Owner — Requires bid bond to accept bids
  • Surety Company — Guarantees your commitment

If you refuse to proceed after winning the bid, the project owner can claim compensation from the surety (typically the difference between your bid and the next lowest bid).

How to Get a Bid Bond in 3 Easy Steps

  1. Step 1: Apply Online (5 Minutes)

    Required bond amount, No hard credit check, Basic project information, Estimated contract amount, We NEVER share your data

  2. Step 2: Get Approved (Same Day)

    High approval rate, Decision within 24 hours, Digital copy sent instantly

  3. Step 3: Submit Your Bid (FREE)

    Include bid bond with your bid, Valid until contract is awarded, Only pay if you WIN the project, Seamless transition to performance bond

Can You Get a Bid Bond with Bad Credit?

YES! BondsExpress specializes in bad credit bid bonds.

Our Bad Credit Bid Bond Program:

  • Available in ALL states
  • Approval based on contractor experience — and financial statements
Important

Your bid bonds are ALWAYS FREE regardless of credit.

How Much Does a Bid Bond Cost?

$0.00 — Bid bonds are always FREE at BondsExpress.

You only pay if you win the project and need performance/payment bonds.

What Do You Need to Get a Bid Bond?

Basic Requirements

  • Project bid information
  • Estimated contract amount
  • Company and ownership information

For Bids Over $1 Million

  • Personal and Business Financial Statements
  • Work in progress schedule
  • Bank references
  • Resume of experience

Bad Credit Applicants May Additionally Need

  • Business and Personal Financial Statements
  • Bank Statements

Bid Bond vs Performance Bond: What’s the Difference?

Bid Bond Performance Bond
FREE — No cost 3% — Standard Rate
Required BEFORE contract award Required AFTER winning bid
Guarantees you’ll accept the contract Guarantees project completion
Valid during bidding period only Valid throughout project duration

Both bonds work together:

  • Submit FREE bid bond with your bid
  • If you win, obtain performance bond
  • Collateral options available
  • Complete the project per contract terms

Frequently Asked Questions About Bid Bonds

  • Correct. Bid bonds are 100% FREE at BondsExpress. You only pay if you win the project and need a performance bond.
  • Yes. Our bad credit program is specifically designed for contractors with challenged credit, bankruptcies, or no bonding history.
  • Most bid bonds are approved within 24 hours. Digital copies are sent immediately upon approval. Overnight delivery available for physical bonds.
  • Click “Apply Now” above, fill out the 5-minute application, and get approved within 24 hours. No hard credit check required.

Continue learning

Bid vs. performance bond — the bid-to-performance handoff.
How to get a bid bond — the qualifying step.
Construction bonds explained — all four contract bond types.
Payment vs. performance bond — protecting owners vs. the supply chain.
Surety bond cost guide — full pricing reference.

Need a free bid bond?

BondsExpress issues bid bonds at no charge and backs them with performance and payment bonds for projects of every size — including specialty programs for bad credit and hard-to-place contractors. Get qualified before your next bid.

Get your free bid bond quote →


Performance Bond Guide: Cost, Coverage & How to Get Bonded

Quick Answer

A performance bond guarantees the contractor will complete the project according to the contract’s terms, plans, and timeline. It protects the project owner from contractor default, delays, substandard work, or abandonment. Performance bonds are usually required together with payment bonds when bidding on government or commercial projects. Premiums typically run 3% of the contract value for qualified contractors, with bad-credit programs available.

What is a Performance Bond?

A performance bond (construction performance bond) guarantees that you (the contractor) will complete the construction project according to:

  • Contract specifications
  • Agreed timeline
  • Quality standards
  • Budget requirements

Performance bonds protect project owners from contractor default, delays, substandard work, or project abandonment. Contractors often need bid, payment, and performance bonds together when bidding on government or commercial projects. They are commonly required on commercial, government, and infrastructure projects where the owner needs financial assurance that work will be completed as agreed.

Three Parties Involved

  • Principal (You – the contractor)
  • Obligee (Project owner)
  • Surety (the guarantor)

Performance Bond vs Payment Bond

Feature Performance Bond Payment Bond
Purpose Guarantees project completion Guarantees subcontractors/suppliers get paid
Who It Protects Project owner Subcontractors, laborers, suppliers
When Required When awarded a contract Usually required alongside performance bond
Cost Typically bundled together at ~3% combined rate

Most projects require both bonds together. Learn more about bid, payment, and performance bonds.

When Do You Need a Performance Bond?

Commonly Required In Project Owners Require Them To
Commercial construction Ensure project completion
Government/municipal projects Protect their investment
Infrastructure projects Maintain project timeline
Large renovation projects Guarantee quality work
Subcontractor work

Can You Get a Performance Bond with Bad Credit?

YES – BondsExpress specializes in bad credit performance bonds.

Our Bad Credit Performance Bond Program:

Approval based on

Contractor experience and financial statements, project history and success rate, and collateral options available.

Available For:

  • Credit scores below 650
  • Past bankruptcies
  • Past tax liens or judgments
  • Limited bonding history
  • New contractors

Program Options

Program Details
Standard Bad Credit Program Rates: 3% – 15% of bond amount. Collateral may be required.
SBA Bond Guarantee Program For small contractors with bad credit. High approval rates. Competitive pricing.

How Much Does a Performance Bond Cost?

Performance bond premiums typically range from 3% to 15% of the total contract amount, based on your credit, financials, and project risk. Most often performance and payment bonds are issued together — in this case the combined rate is 3% for both bonds. If you need a bid bond before winning the project, bid bonds are always issued free of charge.

Example pricing:

  • $100,000 contract: Performance bond cost is approximately $3,000 to $15,000
  • $10,000 contract: Performance bond cost is approximately $300 to $1,500

The project owner typically pays for the performance bond as part of the overall project cost, though contractors often include this expense in their bid.

Pricing by Credit Tier

Credit Tier Rate Notes
Standard Rate 3% Good credit
Sub-Standard or Bad Credit 5% – 15% Collateral may be required
Factors Affecting Cost
  • Credit score
  • Financial strength
  • Industry experience
  • Project type and size
  • Claims history

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Contact a licensed surety bond agency like BondsExpress. We’re licensed in all 50 states and specialize in performance bonds for contractors of all sizes. You can also learn more about our full range of bid and performance bonds for contractors.
  • With complete documentation, 24-48 hours for standard approvals. Bad credit applications may take 3-5 business days.
  • The surety investigates, then either hires another contractor to complete the work or compensates the project owner. You are liable to repay the surety.
  • Yes. Claims make it harder and more expensive to get future bonds. It’s critical to avoid defaults and complete all bonded projects.
  • For a $100,000 contract, a performance bond typically costs between $3,000 and $15,000 annually, depending on your credit score and experience. Contractors with good credit (650+) usually pay around 3% ($3,000), while those with bad credit may pay 10–15% ($10,000–$15,000).
  • The contractor typically pays for the performance bond upfront, but this cost is usually included in the project bid and ultimately covered by the project owner. The bond premium is considered a normal cost of doing business on bonded projects.
  • A performance bond remains valid for the duration of the construction project, including any warranty period specified in the contract. Most performance bonds cover 1–2 years after project completion for warranty claims.
  • No, a performance bond premium is not refundable. Unlike insurance, the premium you pay is a fee for the surety’s guarantee. However, if no claims are made, your bond rate may decrease on future projects.
  • A 10% performance bond means you pay 10% of the contract value as your bond premium. For example, on a $500,000 project, a 10% rate would cost $50,000. This higher rate typically applies to contractors with bad credit, limited experience, or high-risk projects.
  • To get a performance bond:
    1) Apply online or call us at 1-800-331-5453.
    2) Submit your financial documents (business financials, work history).
    3) Receive your quote within 24 hours.
    4) Once approved, your bond is issued and you can begin work.

Continue learning

Construction bonds explained — the full bid/performance/payment picture.
Payment vs. performance bond — the companion comparison.
Bid vs. performance bond — how bid bonds fit in.
Miller Act bonds — federal bonding requirements.
Surety bond cost guide — full pricing reference.

Need a performance bond?

Looking for a trusted performance bond provider? BondsExpress has helped contractors get bonded since 1965. Get bonded fast.

Get your performance bond quote →


Payment Bond Guide: Cost, Coverage & How to Get Bonded

Quick Answer

A payment bond guarantees that subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers on a construction project get paid for their work and materials. It’s usually issued together with a performance bond, and it’s mandatory on federal projects over $150,000 under the Miller Act. Payment bonds protect the supply chain from non-payment and help owners avoid mechanic’s liens. Premiums are typically bundled with performance bonds, often around 3% of the contract price for qualified contractors, with bad-credit options available.

What is a Payment Bond?

A payment bond guarantees that all subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers involved in your construction project will receive payment for their work, services, and materials.

Who Benefits from Payment Bonds?

  • Subcontractors — Guaranteed payment for their work
  • Material Suppliers — Protected against non-payment
  • Laborers — Ensures wages are paid
  • Project Owners — Prevents mechanic’s liens on property
  • General Contractors — Demonstrates financial stability

When Are Payment Bonds Required?

Project Type Requirement
Federal Projects (Miller Act) Required for all federal construction contracts over $150,000. Must be issued alongside performance bond. Protects all tiers of contractors and suppliers.
State & Local Projects (Little Miller Acts) Most states require payment bonds on public projects. Threshold amounts vary by state. Check your state’s specific requirements.
Private Projects Not legally required but increasingly common. Often required by project owners and lenders.

Payment Bond vs Performance Bond

Payment and performance bonds serve different purposes, but they’re often issued together:

Feature Performance Bond Payment Bond
Guarantees Project will be completed Contractors/suppliers get paid
Protects The project owner Subcontractors, suppliers, laborers
Covers Completion costs if contractor defaults Unpaid labor, materials, and services

Together, they provide complete protection for all parties involved in a construction project. Learn more about performance bonds.

How Much Do Payment Bonds Cost?

Payment bond costs are typically bundled with performance bond premiums. When issued together, expect the combined premium to be 3% of the contract price for standard credit.

Combined Performance & Payment Bond Pricing:

  • Standard Rate: 3%
  • Bad Credit/No Credit: 5% – 15% (collateral may be required)

Factors affecting cost:

  • Credit score
  • Financial strength
  • Industry experience
  • Project type and size
  • Claims history

Payment Bonds with Bad Credit

BondsExpress specializes in payment bonds for contractors with bad credit.

Approval is based on:

  • Contractor experience
  • Project history and success rate
  • Collateral options available

Available for:

  • Credit scores below 650
  • Past bankruptcies
  • Past tax liens or judgments
  • Limited bonding history
  • New contractors

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Contractors, material suppliers, equipment lessors, and laborers who have not been paid for their work or materials on a bonded project.
  • Yes. On public projects, payment bonds serve as a substitute for mechanic’s lien rights. Subcontractors cannot file liens but can make claims against the payment bond instead.
  • On federal and most state public projects, yes. They must be issued together. On private projects, requirements vary.

Continue learning

Construction bonds explained — the full bid/performance/payment picture.
Payment vs. performance bond — the companion comparison.
Bid vs. performance bond — how bid bonds fit in.
Miller Act bonds — federal bonding requirements.
Surety bond cost guide — full pricing reference.

Need a payment bond?

BondsExpress writes payment bonds — often bundled with performance bonds — for projects of every size, including specialty programs for bad credit and hard-to-place contractors. Get bonded fast.

Get your payment bond quote →


Medicare DMEPOS Bond Explained: $50,000 Federal Requirement, Cost & How to Get One

Quick Answer

Medicare requires Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) suppliers to obtain a $50,000 surety bond per business location enrolled with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). It protects the Medicare program from fraudulent or improper billing. You pay a premium that is a percentage of the $50,000, not the full amount, based on a soft credit pull. The bond must be in place for the supplier to be enrolled and billing Medicare.

Medicare DMEPOS suppliers — businesses that provide durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies — must post a $50,000 federal surety bond per enrolled location with CMS. This guide explains who needs it, what it covers, estimated cost, and how to get bonded.

For how these bonds work in general, see our what is a surety bond.

Medicare’s $50,000 DMEPOS Bond Requirement

Under CMS rules, a DMEPOS supplier must:

  • Obtain a $50,000 surety bond for each enrolled location (NPI)
  • Maintain the bond continuously for the duration of Medicare enrollment
  • Provide the bond with the supplier’s enrollment or revalidation

If a supplier operates from multiple locations, each enrolled location typically needs its own $50,000 bond. Limited exceptions apply (for example, certain government-operated suppliers); confirm any exemption with CMS.

Federal — not state — bond

The DMEPOS bond is a CMS federal requirement, not a state Medicaid bond. A supplier that bills both Medicare and a state Medicaid program may need both the DMEPOS bond and any applicable state Medicaid bond.

What the Bond Covers

  • Fraudulent or improper Medicare billing by the supplier
  • Unpaid Medicare overpayments or civil monetary penalties
  • Violations of CMS supplier standards

If a supplier improperly bills or fails to repay Medicare overpayments, CMS can file a claim against the bond. The surety reviews claims, pays valid claims up to the $50,000 limit, and collects reimbursement from the supplier under the indemnity agreement.

Estimated Cost of the Medicare DMEPOS Bond

You pay a premium that is a percentage of the $50,000 bond amount, based on a soft credit pull. General first-year premiums commonly fall between roughly $500 and $1,500 for good-credit applicants per location.

About these prices
✓
Figures shown are estimated 1-year premiums and vary by applicant. Multi-year (3-year) terms may be available at a discount. For an exact, verified quote, request a free quote or contact our team.

The $50,000 amount maps to the $50,000 surety bond page. Browse Medicare DMEPOS bonds. For related state requirements, see Medicaid provider bonds. For full pricing, see the surety bond cost guide.

Getting the Bond with Credit Challenges

Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. See bad credit surety bonds.

How to Get a Medicare DMEPOS Bond

  1. Confirm the requirement. Identify each enrolled location and confirm the $50,000 bond applies (limited exemptions may apply).
  2. Apply. Provide business information and authorize a soft credit pull.
  3. Get your quote and pay. Turnaround may take from same day to a couple of business days.
  4. Submit to CMS. Provide the bond with your DMEPOS enrollment, revalidation, or as required by the National Supplier Clearinghouse.

Frequently asked questions

  • It’s a $50,000 federal surety bond Medicare DMEPOS suppliers must post for each enrolled business location with CMS. It protects the Medicare program from fraudulent or improper billing. The bond must be in place for the supplier to be enrolled and billing Medicare.
  • You pay a premium that is a percentage of the $50,000 bond amount, based on a soft credit pull. General first-year premiums commonly fall between roughly $500 and $1,500 for good-credit applicants per location. These are estimated 1-year premiums; multi-year terms may be available at a discount.
  • Yes, generally. Each enrolled location (NPI) typically requires its own $50,000 bond. Limited exceptions apply (for example, certain government-operated suppliers); confirm any exemption with CMS.
  • It covers fraudulent or improper Medicare billing, unpaid Medicare overpayments, civil monetary penalties, and violations of CMS supplier standards. CMS files claims against the bond when a supplier defaults.
  • No. The DMEPOS bond is a CMS federal requirement for Medicare suppliers. A Medicaid provider bond is required by a state Medicaid program. A supplier billing both Medicare and Medicaid may need both bonds.
  • Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. A soft credit pull is typically used during the application.
  • Most are issued for an annual term and renew alongside Medicare enrollment. The bond must stay in place continuously for the supplier to remain enrolled. Multi-year terms may be available at a discount.
  • No. You pay only the premium — a percentage of the $50,000 — not the full bond amount. The $50,000 is the maximum the surety would pay on a valid claim.

Continue learning

Medicaid provider bond — related state requirement.
What is a surety bond? — the basics.
Bad credit surety bonds — options for credit-challenged suppliers.
Surety bond cost guide — how pricing works.
Browse Medicare DMEPOS bonds — find your state’s bond product.

Need a Medicare DMEPOS bond?

BondsExpress writes Medicare DMEPOS $50,000 bonds for suppliers nationwide, including multi-location bonds. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. Request a free quote for an exact rate.

Get your Medicare DMEPOS bond quote →


Medicaid Provider Bond Explained: Requirements, Cost & How to Get One

Quick Answer

A Medicaid provider bond is a surety bond required by some state Medicaid programs as a condition of enrolling and billing Medicaid, often for higher-risk provider types like durable medical equipment, transportation, and home health. It protects the Medicaid program from fraudulent or improper billing. Amounts vary by state and provider type. You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, not the full amount, based on a soft credit pull.

Several state Medicaid programs require certain providers to post a surety bond before they can enroll and bill Medicaid. The requirement most often applies to provider types the program considers higher-risk. This guide explains who needs the bond, what it covers, and how to get one.

For how these bonds work in general, see our what is a surety bond.

Who Needs a Medicaid Provider Bond

Requirements vary by state, but bonds are most often required for:

  • Durable medical equipment (DME) providers
  • Non-emergency medical transportation providers
  • Home health and personal care providers
  • Other provider types a state Medicaid program designates as higher-risk

Not every state requires Medicaid provider bonds, and the amount and provider types differ. Confirm with your state Medicaid program whether a bond applies to your enrollment.

Requirements are state-specific
✓
Medicaid is administered by each state, so bonding requirements, amounts, and the provider types affected vary. Confirm your exact requirement with your state Medicaid agency before enrolling.

What the Bond Covers

  • Fraudulent or improper Medicaid billing
  • Overpayments the provider fails to repay
  • Violations of Medicaid program rules

If a provider improperly bills or fails to repay overpayments, the Medicaid program can file a claim against the bond. The surety reviews claims, pays valid claims up to the bond amount, and collects reimbursement from the provider under the indemnity agreement.

What Affects the Cost

You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, based on a soft credit pull. Because Medicaid bonds are financial-guarantee-type bonds, premium rates can be a bit higher than basic license bonds. Cost drivers include the bond amount, your credit, and the provider type.

About these prices
✓
Figures shown are estimated 1-year premiums and vary by applicant. Multi-year (3-year) terms may be available at a discount. For an exact, verified quote, request a free quote or contact our team.

Browse Medicaid bonds and related Medicare DMEPOS bonds. For full pricing, see the surety bond cost guide.

Medicaid Bond vs. Medicare DMEPOS Bond

These are different programs. A Medicaid provider bond is required by a state Medicaid program. A Medicare DMEPOS bond is a $50,000 federal requirement for durable medical equipment suppliers billing Medicare. A supplier billing both may need both. See Medicare DMEPOS bonds.

Getting the Bond with Credit Challenges

Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. See bad credit surety bonds.

How to Get a Medicaid Provider Bond

  1. Confirm the requirement. Check with your state Medicaid agency for the bond amount and form.
  2. Apply. Provide business information and authorize a soft credit pull.
  3. Get your quote and pay. Turnaround may take from same day to a couple of business days.
  4. File with the Medicaid agency. Submit the bond with your provider enrollment.

Browse all Medicaid bonds.

Frequently asked questions

  • It’s a surety bond required by some state Medicaid programs to enroll and bill Medicaid, often for higher-risk provider types like DME, transportation, and home health. It protects the Medicaid program from fraudulent or improper billing. Amounts vary by state and provider type.
  • Most often durable medical equipment providers, non-emergency medical transportation providers, home health and personal care providers, and other provider types a state designates as higher-risk. Not every state requires them — confirm with your state Medicaid agency.
  • You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, based on a soft credit pull. Because these are financial-guarantee-type bonds, rates can be somewhat higher than basic license bonds. These are estimated 1-year premiums; multi-year terms may be available at a discount. Request a quote for an exact figure.
  • It covers fraudulent or improper Medicaid billing, unrepaid overpayments, and violations of Medicaid program rules. The Medicaid program files claims against the bond when a provider defaults.
  • No. A Medicaid provider bond is required by a state Medicaid program. A Medicare DMEPOS bond is a $50,000 federal requirement for durable medical equipment suppliers billing Medicare. A supplier billing both programs may need both bonds.
  • No. Medicaid is administered by each state, so bonding requirements, amounts, and affected provider types vary. Confirm your exact requirement with your state Medicaid agency before enrolling.
  • Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. A soft credit pull is typically used during the application.
  • Most run for one year and renew annually alongside the provider enrollment. Multi-year terms may be available at a discount. Confirm the term with your state Medicaid agency.

Continue learning

What is a surety bond? — the basics.
Types of surety bonds — where Medicaid bonds fit.
Bad credit surety bonds — options for credit-challenged providers.
Surety bond cost guide — how pricing works.
Browse Medicaid bonds — find your state’s bond.

Need a Medicaid provider bond?

BondsExpress writes Medicaid provider bonds for state programs nationwide, plus Medicare DMEPOS bonds. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. Request a free quote for an exact rate.

Get your Medicaid bond quote →


Liquor License Bond Explained: Requirements, Cost & How to Get One

Quick Answer

A liquor license bond is a surety bond required by many states, counties, and cities as a condition of holding a license to sell or manufacture alcohol. It guarantees the licensee will pay applicable alcohol taxes and comply with liquor laws. Bond amounts and requirements vary widely by jurisdiction. You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, not the full amount, based on a soft credit pull.

Liquor license bonds are required by a patchwork of state and local authorities for businesses that sell, serve, or manufacture alcohol. Because alcohol is heavily taxed and regulated, the bond guarantees tax payment and legal compliance. This guide explains what the bond covers, what drives cost, and how to get bonded.

For how these bonds work in general, see our what is a surety bond and types of surety bonds.

Who Needs a Liquor License Bond

Requirements vary, but common bonded parties include:

  • Retailers (bars, restaurants, package stores) in states or cities that require a bond
  • Wholesalers and distributors of alcoholic beverages
  • Manufacturers — breweries, wineries, and distilleries
  • Importers of alcohol in some jurisdictions

Whether you need a liquor bond, and for how much, depends entirely on your state, county, or city. Some jurisdictions require none; others require bonds tied to your expected alcohol tax liability.

Liquor bond requirements are local
✓
Liquor bonding is set by state alcohol authorities and often by individual counties and cities. Confirm the exact bond amount and form with the specific authority licensing your business before purchasing.

What the Bond Covers

  • Payment of state and local alcohol taxes
  • Compliance with liquor licensing laws and regulations
  • Penalties or unpaid taxes owed to the licensing authority

If the licensee fails to pay taxes or violates liquor laws, the authority can file a claim against the bond. The surety reviews claims, pays valid claims up to the bond amount, and collects reimbursement from the licensee under the indemnity agreement.

What Affects the Cost

You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, based on a soft credit pull. Cost drivers include:

  • The bond amount required by your jurisdiction
  • Your personal and business credit profile
  • Whether the bond is a tax bond (tied to alcohol tax liability) or a compliance bond

In some states, like New York, the bond is available for instant purchase and does not require a credit check. You can purchase the bond for 1 year or up to 3 years, however, most applicants purchase the 2 year bond to match their liquor license. For full pricing, see the New York Liquor Bond Retailer page.

About these prices
✓
Figures shown are estimated 1-year premiums and vary by applicant. Multi-year terms may be available at a discount. For an exact, verified quote, request a free quote or contact our team.

Bond amounts often map to standard tiers like the $10,000 or $25,000 surety bond pages. Browse liquor bonds — example: New Jersey manufacture of liquor bond. For full pricing, see the surety bond cost guide.

Getting the Bond with Credit Challenges

Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. See bad credit surety bonds.

How to Get a Liquor License Bond

  1. Confirm the requirement. Identify the licensing authority, bond amount, and form.
  2. Apply. Provide business information and authorize a soft credit pull (if required) or purchase your bond immediately after completing the application.
  3. Get your quote and pay. Turnaround may take from same day to a couple of business days.
  4. File with the authority. Submit the bond with your liquor license application.

Browse all liquor bonds by jurisdiction.

Frequently asked questions

  • It’s a surety bond required by many states, counties, and cities to hold a license to sell or manufacture alcohol. It guarantees the licensee will pay alcohol taxes and comply with liquor laws. Amounts and requirements vary widely by jurisdiction.
  • You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, based on a soft credit pull. For good-credit applicants, premiums commonly run 1-3% of the bond amount. These are estimated 1-year premiums; multi-year terms may be available at a discount.
  • Retailers, wholesalers, distributors, manufacturers (breweries, wineries, distilleries), and sometimes importers, in jurisdictions that require a bond. Whether you need one depends on your state, county, or city.
  • It covers payment of state and local alcohol taxes, compliance with liquor laws, and penalties or unpaid taxes owed to the licensing authority. The authority files claims against the bond if the licensee defaults.
  • No. Liquor bonding is set by state alcohol authorities and often by counties and cities. Some jurisdictions require no bond; others require bonds tied to expected alcohol tax liability. Confirm with your specific authority.
  • A liquor tax bond is tied to your expected alcohol tax liability and guarantees tax payment. A compliance bond guarantees adherence to liquor laws generally. Some jurisdictions require one, some the other, and the names can vary locally.
  • Yes! Some liquor license bonds don’t require a credit check for approval so they are available for instant purchase. If a credit check is required, a soft pull will be executed to determine the premium approval and Bonds Express has collateral options available to help reduce rates.
  • Most liquor bonds run for one year and renew annually alongside the liquor license. Multi-year terms may be available at a discount. Confirm the term with the licensing authority.

Continue learning

What is a surety bond? — the basics.
Types of surety bonds — where liquor bonds fit.
Bad credit surety bonds — options for credit-challenged applicants.
Surety bond cost guide — how pricing works.
Browse liquor bonds — find your jurisdiction’s bond.

Need a liquor license bond?

BondsExpress writes liquor license and liquor tax bonds for states, counties, and cities nationwide. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. Request a free quote for an exact rate.

Get your liquor bond quote →


California Contractor License Bond Guide: $25,000 CSLB Requirement, Cost & How to Get One

Quick Answer

California requires every licensed contractor to file a $25,000 contractor license bond with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB), on CSLB bond form 13b-1. The bond amount was increased to $25,000 under SB 607. It protects consumers, employees, and the state from contractor violations of the licensing law. You pay a premium that is a percentage of the $25,000, not the full amount. The bond must be on file for the license to stay active.

The California contractor license bond is the foundational bond every CSLB-licensed contractor needs. Under SB 607, the required amount rose to $25,000, filed on CSLB form 13b-1. This guide explains what the bond covers, estimated cost, the related bonds some contractors also need, and how to get bonded.

For how contractor bonds work in general, see our contractor license bond explained.

California’s $25,000 CSLB Bond Requirement

Under California law, a CSLB-licensed contractor must:

  • File a $25,000 contractor license bond with the CSLB (form 13b-1)
  • Keep the bond on file continuously for the license to remain active
  • File additional bonds in certain situations (see below) (if required)

The $25,000 amount reflects the increase under SB 607. The bond protects consumers harmed by license-law violations, employees owed wages, and the state.

Related CSLB bonds some contractors need

Beyond the standard $25,000 license bond, some contractors must file a bond of qualifying individual (when a responsible managing officer or employee qualifies the license) or a disciplinary bond (if the CSLB imposes one after a disciplinary action). Confirm which apply to you.

What the Bond Covers

  • Violations of the California contractor licensing law
  • Failure to complete contracted work or willful departure from plans
  • Unpaid wages owed to employees
  • Financial harm to consumers from license-law violations

A harmed party files a claim against the bond. The surety reviews claims, pays valid claims up to the $25,000 limit, and collects reimbursement from the contractor under the indemnity agreement.

Estimated Cost of the California Contractor License Bond

You pay a premium that is a percentage of the $25,000 bond amount, based on a soft credit pull. General first-year premiums commonly fall between roughly $250 and $750 for good-credit applicants.

About these prices
✓
Figures shown are estimated 1-year premiums and vary by applicant. Multi-year terms are available at a discount. For an exact, verified quote, request a free quote or contact our team.

The $25,000 amount maps to the $25,000 surety bond page. California products: California contractors bond $25,000, bond of qualifying individual, contractor disciplinary bond. For full pricing, see the surety bond cost guide.

Getting the Bond with Credit Challenges

Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. Note this is the license bond, which is more accessible than project performance and payment bonds. See bad credit surety bonds.

License Bond vs. Project Bonds

The $25,000 CSLB bond lets you hold your license. Individual projects may require separate bid, performance, and payment bonds. For those, see construction bonds explained and bid vs. performance bond.

How to Get a California Contractor License Bond

  1. Confirm the $25,000 requirement and whether a qualifying-individual bond also applies (if required).
  2. Apply. Provide business and personal information and authorize a soft credit pull.
  3. Get your quote and pay. Turnaround may take from same day to a couple of business days.
  4. File with the CSLB. The bond (form 13b-1) is filed electronically by the surety company on your behalf with the Contractors State License Board.

See more California bonds at the California state bonds hub.

Frequently asked questions

  • It’s a $25,000 surety bond every CSLB-licensed contractor in California must file with the Contractors State License Board on form 13b-1. It protects consumers, employees, and the state from violations of the contractor licensing law. The bond must stay on file for the license to remain active.
  • You pay a premium that is a percentage of the $25,000 bond amount — commonly roughly $250 to $750 for the first year for good-credit applicants. These are estimated 1-year premiums; multi-year terms are available at a discount. Request a quote for an exact figure.
  • The required amount was increased to $25,000 under SB 607. It applies to all CSLB-licensed contractors and is filed on CSLB bond form 13b-1. Confirm current requirements with the CSLB.
  • It covers violations of the contractor licensing law, failure to complete work or willful departure from plans, unpaid employee wages, and consumer harm from license-law violations. Harmed parties file claims against the bond.
  • Beyond the $25,000 license bond, some contractors need a bond of qualifying individual (when an RMO or RME qualifies the license) or a disciplinary bond (if the CSLB imposes one after disciplinary action). Confirm which apply to your situation.
  • Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered, generally at a higher premium. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. The license bond is more accessible than project performance bonds. A soft credit pull is typically used.
  • The $25,000 CSLB license bond lets you hold your contractor license and stays on file continuously. A performance bond guarantees a specific project and is purchased per job as a percentage of the contract. Contractors often need both.
  • It is commonly issued for a two-year term to align with the CSLB license cycle and must stay on file continuously. Multi-year terms may be available at a discount.

Continue learning

Contractor license bond explained — how contractor bonds work.
Construction bonds explained — project bonds for contractors.
Bid vs. performance bond — project bond comparison.
Bad credit surety bonds — options for credit-challenged contractors.
California state bonds — all bonds required in California.

Need a California contractor license bond?

BondsExpress writes the California $25,000 CSLB contractor license bond (form 13b-1), plus qualifying-individual and disciplinary bonds. Collateral options are available to reduce rates where needed. Request a free quote for an exact rate.

Get your California contractor bond quote →


New Jersey Home Improvement Contractor Bond Guide: Requirements, Cost & How to Get One

Quick Answer

New Jersey requires home improvement and home elevation contractors to obtain a surety bond, with the amount — $10,000, $25,000, or $50,000 — tied to the contractor’s aggregate contract volume under the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs rules (PL 2023 c.237). The bond protects consumers from contractor fraud or failure to perform. You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount, not the full amount. The bond must be in place before registration is approved.

Get Your New Jersey Home Improvement Bond Now →

New Jersey strengthened its home improvement contractor requirements under PL 2023 c.237, administered by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Home improvement and home elevation contractors must register and post a surety bond scaled to their contract volume. This guide explains the bond tiers, estimated cost, and how to get bonded.

For how contractor bonds work in general, see our contractor license bond explained.

New Jersey’s Tiered Home Improvement Bond Requirement

Under the DCA rules, the bond amount is tied to the contractor’s aggregate contract volume:

Aggregate contract volume tier Bond amount
Lowest tier $10,000
Middle tier $25,000
Highest tier $50,000
Confirm your tier with the DCA
✓
The exact volume breakpoints for the $10,000 / $25,000 / $50,000 tiers are set by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. Confirm which tier applies to your business before purchasing, so your bond amount matches your registration.

What the Bond Covers

  • Fraud or misrepresentation in home improvement or home elevation contracts
  • Failure to complete contracted work
  • Violations of New Jersey home improvement contractor regulations

A harmed homeowner can file a claim against the bond. The surety reviews claims, pays valid claims up to the bond amount, and collects reimbursement from the contractor under the indemnity agreement.

Estimated Cost of the New Jersey Home Improvement Bond

You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount. This bond is available for instant purchase as no credit check is required for approval. Pricing for each bond amount:

  • $10,000 bond: $100
  • $25,000 bond: $125
  • $50,000 bond: $250

These amounts map to the $10,000, $25,000, and $50,000 surety bond pages. Get the New Jersey home improvement contractor bond directly. For the full pricing picture, see the surety bond cost guide.

Getting the Bond with Credit Challenges

Applicants with weaker credit can still purchase the New Jersey Home Improvement Contractor bond since it is available for instant purchase. No credit check is necessary so your credit score will not impact your ability to obtain this bond. See bad credit surety bonds and how to get bonded with bad credit.

How to Get a New Jersey Home Improvement Bond

  1. Confirm your bond tier with the New Jersey DCA based on your contract volume.
  2. Apply. Provide business information and purchase your bond online.
  3. Bond Delivered to your Email. Turnaround may take anywhere from a few hours to next business day, depending on when we receive the application.
  4. File with the DCA. Submit the bond with your home improvement contractor registration.

See more New Jersey bonds at the New Jersey state bonds hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • It’s a surety bond required of home improvement and home elevation contractors in New Jersey under PL 2023 c.237, administered by the Department of Community Affairs. The amount — $10,000, $25,000, or $50,000 — is tied to contract volume. It protects homeowners from contractor fraud or failure to perform.
  • You pay a premium that is a percentage of the bond amount. Since this bond is available for instant purchase, premiums are $100 for a $10,000 bond, $125 for $25,000, and $250 for $50,000.
  • The amount is tied to the contractor’s aggregate contract volume, with tiers of $10,000, $25,000, and $50,000. The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs sets the volume breakpoints, so confirm which tier applies before purchasing.
  • It covers fraud or misrepresentation in home improvement or home elevation contracts, failure to complete contracted work, and violations of New Jersey home improvement regulations. Harmed homeowners file claims against the bond.
  • Yes! Bonds Express offers this bond at a flat rate with no credit check necessary for an approval. Your credit score will not impact your ability to obtain this bond.
  • The bond is commonly issued for an annual term and renews alongside the contractor registration.
  • Turnaround may take anywhere from a few hours to next business day, depending on when we receive the application. The bond is delivered electronically to your email, with a hard copy provided if the DCA requires the original.
  • Yes. The New Jersey requirement covers both home improvement and home elevation contractors. The same tiered bond structure applies based on contract volume.

Continue learning

Contractor license bond explained — how contractor bonds work.
Construction bonds explained — project bonds for contractors.
Bad credit surety bonds — options for credit-challenged contractors.
Surety bond cost guide — how pricing works.
New Jersey state bonds — all bonds required in New Jersey.

Need a New Jersey home improvement bond?

BondsExpress writes the New Jersey home improvement and home elevation contractor bond at all three tiers. Purchase your bond today!

Get your New Jersey home improvement Bond quote →


New Mexico VIN Inspector Bond Guide: $30,000 Requirement, Cost & How to Get One

Quick Answer

New Mexico requires certified VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) inspectors to obtain a $30,000 surety bond. The bond protects the state and the public from errors or misconduct in VIN inspections, which verify a vehicle’s identity for titling and registration. You pay a premium that is a percentage of the $30,000, not the full amount, and the bond is commonly issued for an annual term. It must be in place before the inspector certification is active.

Get Your New Mexico VIN Inspector Bond Now →

VIN inspectors in New Mexico verify vehicle identification numbers for titling, registration, and out-of-state vehicle situations. Because their certification affects the integrity of vehicle records, the state requires a $30,000 surety bond. This guide explains the requirement, estimated cost, and how to get bonded.

For how these bonds work in general, see our what is a surety bond and types of surety bonds.

New Mexico’s $30,000 VIN Inspector Bond Requirement

A certified VIN inspector in New Mexico must:

  • Complete the state’s VIN inspector certification requirements
  • Obtain a $30,000 surety bond
  • Maintain the bond for the certification term

The bond guarantees the inspector will perform inspections honestly and in compliance with state rules. If an inspector’s error or misconduct causes financial harm — for example, certifying a VIN incorrectly — the affected party can file a claim against the bond.

What the Bond Covers

  • Errors or fraud in verifying a vehicle identification number
  • Misconduct that affects titling or registration integrity
  • Violations of New Mexico VIN inspection regulations

The surety reviews claims, pays valid claims up to the $30,000 limit, and collects reimbursement from the inspector under the indemnity agreement.

Estimated Cost of the New Mexico VIN Inspector Bond

You pay a premium that is a percentage of the $30,000 bond amount, depending on the bond term (1 year vs. 2 or 3 year terms). Because VIN inspector bonds are relatively low-risk, premiums are typically modest — $300 for 1 year, $525 for a 2 year term or $750 for a 3 year term.

The $30,000 amount maps to the $30,000 surety bond page. Get the New Mexico VIN inspector bond directly. For the full pricing picture, see the surety bond cost guide.

Getting the Bond with Credit Challenges

The New Mexico VIN Inspector bond is available for instant purchase and requires no credit check for approval. See bad credit surety bonds.

How to Get a New Mexico VIN Inspector Bond

  1. Confirm the $30,000 requirement and any required form with the New Mexico certifying authority.
  2. Apply. Provide your information and purchase your bond online.
  3. Receive bond via Email. Get your bond documents delivered directly to your email with original copies mailed if required.
  4. File with the certifying authority. Submit the bond with your VIN inspector certification.

See more New Mexico bonds at the New Mexico state bonds hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • It’s a $30,000 surety bond required of certified VIN inspectors in New Mexico. It protects the state and public from errors or misconduct in vehicle identification number inspections used for titling and registration. The bond must be in place before the inspector certification is active.
  • You pay a premium that is a percentage of the $30,000 bond amount — $300 for a 1 year term, $525 for 2 years or $750 for a 3 year term.
  • It covers errors or fraud in verifying a vehicle identification number, misconduct affecting titling or registration integrity, and violations of New Mexico VIN inspection regulations. Affected parties file claims against the bond.
  • Individuals certified to perform VIN inspections in New Mexico need the $30,000 bond. VIN inspections verify a vehicle’s identity for titling and registration, including for out-of-state and rebuilt vehicles.
  • Yes! Bonds Express offers this bond for instant purchase with no credit check necessary for an approval. Simply complete the application online, purchase your bond and receive a PDF copy in your email (typically same-day).
  • The bond is commonly issued for an annual term and renews alongside the inspector certification. Multi-year terms are available at a discount. Confirm the term with the certifying authority.
  • Turnaround is typically anywhere from a few hours to same-day, depending on when receive the application. The bond is delivered electronically, with a hard copy provided if the authority requires the original.
  • No. You pay only the premium — a percentage of the $30,000 — not the full bond amount. The $30,000 is the maximum the surety would pay on a valid claim.

Continue learning

What is a surety bond? — the basics.
Types of surety bonds — where this bond fits.
Bad credit surety bonds — options for credit-challenged applicants.
Surety bond cost guide — how pricing works.
New Mexico state bonds — all bonds required in New Mexico.

Need a New Mexico VIN inspector bond?

BondsExpress writes the New Mexico $30,000 VIN inspector bond, issued at a flat rate, available for instant purchase with multi-year terms at a discounted rate. Purchase your New Mexico VIN Inspector bond today!

Get your New Mexico VIN inspector bond quote →


New York Automobile Broker Bond Guide: $100,000 Requirement, Cost & How to Get One

Quick Answer

New York requires licensed automobile brokers to obtain a $100,000 surety bond under General Business Law Article 35-B. The bond protects consumers who use an auto broker to purchase or lease a vehicle, covering financial harm from broker fraud or failure to perform. You pay a premium that is a percentage of the $100,000, not the full amount. The bond must be in place before the automobile broker registration is approved.

Get Your New York Auto Broker Bond Now →

New York regulates automobile brokers — businesses that arrange vehicle purchases or leases on behalf of consumers — separately from auto dealers. Under General Business Law Article 35-B, registered auto brokers must post a $100,000 surety bond. This guide explains what the bond covers, estimated cost, and how to get registered.

For how these bonds work in general, see our auto dealer bond explained and what is a surety bond.

New York’s $100,000 Auto Broker Bond Requirement

Under GBL Article 35-B, an automobile broker in New York must:

  • Register as an automobile broker with the appropriate New York authority
  • Obtain a $100,000 surety bond
  • Maintain the bond for as long as the broker registration is active

An automobile broker is distinct from a dealer: the broker arranges a transaction between a consumer and a dealer rather than selling vehicles from their own inventory. The $100,000 bond reflects the consumer-protection focus of the broker statute.

Broker vs. dealer

If you sell vehicles from your own inventory, you need a motor vehicle dealer bond. If you arrange purchases or leases on behalf of consumers, you’re an automobile broker and need the $100,000 broker bond under Article 35-B. Confirm your classification before bonding.

What the Bond Covers

  • Fraud or misrepresentation by the broker in arranging a vehicle transaction
  • Failure to deliver services the consumer paid for
  • Misuse of consumer funds or deposits
  • Violations of the Article 35-B broker regulations

A consumer harmed by the broker can file a claim against the bond. The surety reviews the claim, pays valid claims up to the $100,000 limit, and then collects reimbursement from the broker under the indemnity agreement.

Estimated Cost of the New York Auto Broker Bond

You pay a premium — a percentage of the $100,000 bond amount — based on a soft credit pull and the broker’s qualifications. As a general range, premiums on a $100,000 bond commonly fall between roughly 1-3%, depending on credit and financials.

About these prices
✓
Figures shown are estimated 1-year premiums and vary by applicant. Multi-year (3-year) terms are available at a discount. For an exact, verified quote, request a free quote or contact our team.

The $100,000 amount maps to the $100,000 surety bond page. Get the New York automobile broker business bond directly. For the full pricing picture, see the surety bond cost guide.

Getting the Bond with Credit Challenges

Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered through specialty programs, often at a higher premium, and collateral options are available where needed. See bad credit surety bonds and how to get bonded with bad credit.

How to Get a New York Auto Broker Bond

  1. Confirm your classification and the $100,000 requirement with the appropriate New York authority.
  2. Apply. Provide business information, owner information, and authorize a soft credit pull. Financial statements may be requested (if required for the amount).
  3. Get your quote and pay. Turnaround may take a few hours to a couple of business days depending on the file.
  4. File with the registration authority. Submit the bond with your automobile broker registration.

See more New York bonds at the New York state bonds hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • It’s a $100,000 surety bond required of licensed automobile brokers in New York under General Business Law Article 35-B. It protects consumers who use a broker to purchase or lease a vehicle from broker fraud or failure to perform. The bond must be in place before the broker registration is approved.
  • You pay a premium that is a percentage of the $100,000 bond amount, commonly between 1-3% depending on credit and financials. These figures are estimated 1-year premiums; multi-year terms are available at a discount. Request a quote for an exact figure.
  • A dealer sells vehicles from their own inventory and needs a motor vehicle dealer bond. A broker arranges purchases or leases on behalf of consumers and needs the $100,000 automobile broker bond under Article 35-B. Confirm your classification before bonding.
  • It covers broker fraud or misrepresentation, failure to deliver paid-for services, misuse of consumer funds, and violations of the Article 35-B broker regulations. Harmed consumers file claims against the bond.
  • Applicants with weaker credit can still be considered through specialty programs, generally at a higher premium, with collateral options available where needed. A soft credit pull is typically used during the application.
  • Turnaround may take from a few hours to a couple of business days, depending on credit, financials, and the completeness of your application. The bond is delivered electronically, with a hard copy provided if the authority requires the original.
  • The bond stays in force as long as your automobile broker registration is active, with the premium renewed on the bond’s term. Multi-year terms may be available at a discount.
  • No. You pay only the premium — a percentage of the $100,000 — not the full bond amount. The $100,000 is the maximum the surety would pay on a valid claim.

Continue learning

Auto dealer bond explained — related vehicle-industry bonds.
What is a surety bond? — the basics.
Bad credit surety bonds — options for credit-challenged applicants.
Surety bond cost guide — how pricing works.
New York state bonds — all bonds required in New York.

Need a New York auto broker bond?

BondsExpress writes the New York $100,000 automobile broker bond, with specialty options and collateral options available for tougher files. Request your free quote to get an exact rate.

Get your New York auto broker bond quote →