Rhode Island Health Club Bond Guide
If you’re opening a health club in Rhode Island, you’ll likely need a surety bond. Learn all about the bond requirements and process in this guide.
Bond Overview
- Purpose: To protect clients and hold fitness centers accountable for following state regulations
- Who Needs It: Health clubs in Rhode Island that charge initiation fees or offer long-term contracts
- Regulating Body: The Rhode Island Attorney General
- Required Coverage: $10,000, $25,000 or $30,000 based on facility size
- Premium Rate: Credit-based, starting at 1% of the bond amount
What Is a Rhode Island Health Club Bond?
A health club bond protects prepaid membership fees and deposits if a fitness center or spa closes before fulfilling client contracts.
This type of license and permit bond is required by the Attorney General for health club licensing in Rhode Island.
Who Needs a Health Club Bond?
Per Rhode Island General Laws § 5-50-3, anyone opening a health club and charging initiation fees must file a surety bond with the state.
The required bond mount varies based on the square footage of non-court exercise/aerobic/fitness area in the facility:
- $10,000 Bond: <10,000 square feet
- $25,000 Bond: 10,000–25,000 square feet
- $30,000 Bond: 25,000+ square feet
If you do not charge initiation fees and only offer membership contracts up to 30 days in length, you may be exempt from the bond requirement.
How Much Do Health Club Bonds Cost in Rhode Island?
Your Rhode Island health club bond will cost a small percentage of the bond amount — typically 1–10% — based on credit score.
For example, the $25,000 health club bond starts at $250 for qualified applicants. Apply to receive your free, personalized quote within one business day.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does a Rhode Island Health Club Bond Work?
A health club bond creates a financial guarantee between three parties:
- Principal: The health club owner(s) filing the bond
- Obligee: The Rhode Island Attorney General requiring the bond
- Surety: The provider issuing the bond
As the principal, you must meet the obligations of the bond. If not, harmed parties can file claims for reimbursement up to the bond amount.
The surety will pay valid claims, but you must reimburse the surety in the end.
How Do I Get My Bond?
To get your Rhode Island health club bond, just follow these quick steps:
- Submit an online application
- Receive your free quote within one business day
- Complete signatures and pay online
- File your physical bond form with the Attorney General
If you have any questions, our surety experts are here to help — just call 1 (800) 308-4358.
How Fast Can I Get My Bond?
We mail most bonds same-day when purchased before 4 PM CST on business days. You can select three-day, two-day or next-day shipping at checkout.
How Do I Renew My Health Club Bond?
Rhode Island health club bonds last for one year. You can renew your existing bond policy by simply paying your renewal invoice when prompted.
The bond will remain active until officially cancelled by the surety.
