California Commercial Fundraiser Bond for Charitable Purposes

What Is a California Commercial Fundraiser Bond?

California charitable fundraising bonds are put in place to ensure that commercial fundraisers comply with the provisions of Section 12599 of the Government Code of the State of California. 

Unethical acts under this bond include:

• Leading people to believe that money and funds are collected for charitable purposes when they are not
• Using a charity’s name without written consent
• Employing any device, scheme or artifice to defraud or obtain money by misrepresentation
• Failing to produce to the Attorney General any books and records of such organization

How Much Do Commercial Fundraising Bonds Cost in California?

The California Office of the Attorney General requires commercial fundraisers for charitable purposes to file $25,000 surety bonds. We issue these bonds instantly online for just $375 with no credit check, which means all applicants are automatically approved.

Simply click Buy Now to purchase your California commercial fundraiser bond using our secure online checkout:

How Does a Commercial Fundraising Bond Work? 

California commercial fundraising bonds create a legally-binding contract between three parties: 

• Principal: Commercial fundraiser that purchases the bond 
• Obligee: The CA Office of the Attorney General that requires the bond
• Surety: The provider that issues the bond and backs the principal

By filing this bond, the principal agrees to pay all sums due to any harmed party as a result of the unlawful fundraising practices. The surety guarantees that funds are available to pay any potential claims. 

How to Become a Commercial Fundraiser in California

Any organization or person that solicits contributions or intends to hire a person or business to solicit contributions for charitable purposes in California is required to register with the Registry of Charities and Fundraisers. 

You’ll need to provide the following information on your license application: 

• Official business name and address
• Federal employer ID 
• CF registration number
• Mailing address (if different from official address)
• Any additional business names and addresses 
• Business structure 
• Payment for all application fees 

More Resources 

• State of California Department of Justice Office of the Attorney General Forms