The October 1 government shutdown has affected a wide breadth of industries. The surety industry is not among that group — at least not on a consumer level.

Although the Small Business Administration’s Surety Bond Guarantee Program shut down after it was deemed non-essential, its temporary closing does not affect anyone in need of a surety bond.

Current and prospective business owners seeking to renew a bond or purchase one for the first time can conduct business with private surety companies across the nation.

Current contractors in the SBA program might still be able to qualify for bonds without the SBA guarantee. These professionals should contact their agents before bidding on any new jobs. Like other business professionals, contractors looking to qualify for the first time can still conduct business with private surety companies across the nation. They may, however, be subject to unique underwriting rules or special terms until the SBA’s program reopens.

If you need a surety bond, contact SuretyBonds.com online 24/7 or by phone at 1 (800) 308-4358 Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CST. SuretyBonds.com is legally licensed to issue surety bonds nationwide.