Public Official Bond Guide
Certain public officials, such as treasurers and tax collectors, need to file surety bonds before being sworn into office. Learn how to navigate the bonding process and complete your bond application with this guide.
Bond Overview
- Purpose: To ensure elected and appointed officials properly handle public funds
- Who Needs It: Officials receiving access to government funds
- Required Amount: $5,000–$1,000,000+, depending on the position and location
- Premium Rates: Typically 1–4% of the bond amount, credit-based
What Is a Public Official Surety Bond?
Public official surety bonds guarantee that elected or appointed officials will perform their duties according to law. Bonding is often a requirement before an individual can be sworn in for a public office involved with handling government funds.
How Do Public Official Bonds Work?
Public official surety bonds are legal contracts that bind three parties together:
- Principal: The official who purchases the bond and promises to uphold obligations.
- Obligee: The county, city or state that requires the bond from the public official.
- Surety: The agency that provides the bond and ensures the obligation is upheld.
Why Choose SuretyBonds.com?
SuretyBonds.com is licensed to issue public official bonds in every state. As the nation’s top surety provider, we offer the best service, fastest delivery and most affordable bond prices in the industry.
How Much Do Bonds Cost for Public Officials?
The cost of a public official surety bond varies on a case-by-case basis. Your exact premium will be based on the following factors:
- The required bond amount
- The risk associated with your position
- Personal credit score
- Other application information, varies by state
In most cases, qualified officials pay a premium of 1–4% of the total bond amount. For example, a $10,000 public official bond would cost $100-$400.
Public officials typically need a minimum credit score of 650 to qualify for bonding services. The higher your credit score, the lower your surety bond cost will be. Request your free, personalized quote today.
How to Get Your Public Official Bond
SuretyBonds.com provides the fastest and easiest bonding process for government officials:
- Step 1: Apply for an instant quote using our online form.
- Step 2: Pay for your public official bond via one of our easy payment options.
- Step 3: Receive and file your original bond form with the obligee.
If you're in a rush, we offer overnight shipping at checkout.
What Types of Public Officials Need a Surety Bond?
Public positions that often require a surety bond at the state, county or city level can include the following:
- Court clerks
- Judges
- Mayors
- Sheriffs
- Tax collectors
- Treasurers
- Township managers or directors
- Deputies
- Constables
- Homeowner association (HOA) leaders
What Does a Public Official Surety Bond Cover?
Although insurance companies frequently underwrite public official bonds, remember that surety bonds are not insurance; they’re a form of credit. Any claim paid on a bond will have to be repaid by the offending official. The insurance underwriter will not assume the loss.
