Texas Navigator Entity Registration Bond

Update: The Texas Department of Insurance no longer issues Navigator licenses, therefore this bond is no longer required.

How much does a navigator entity registration bond cost in Texas?

The Texas Department of Insurance requires professionals who assist consumers with obtaining health coverage or explain health care affordability programs to post $25,000 navigator entity surety bonds prior to conducting business.

The price you’ll pay for your Texas surety bond depends on a review of your personal credit report. Qualified applicants could pay as low as $250.

Why do I need this bond?

By posting a Texas navigator entity registration bond, principals (navigator entities) pledge to pay all sums that become due to the Texas Department of Insurance for the payment of eligible claims that result from the principal’s noncompliance with the Texas Insurance Code and other applicable rules.

Violations under this code include:

• engaging in electioneering or finance activities that directly support the candidacy of an individual for government positions
• charging consumers in return for providing information about health coverage affordability programs or health insurance concepts related to qualified health plans
• directly selling, soliciting or negotiating health insurance coverage
• offering advice or advising consumers on which qualified health plan is available through a health benefit exchange

If the principal violates the terms of his or her surety bond contract, the bond protects the state from resulting financial loss up to the full penal sum of the bond ($25,000).

What’s the fine print?

Texas navigator entity registration surety bonds require the principal to remain in compliance with Texas Administrative Code 19.4010, otherwise the surety bond will become null and void. As long as obligations are met according to code, the bond will remain in full force and effect.

To cancel the bond, the surety must provide written notice of cancellation via certified mail to the Texas Department of Insurance at least 30 days prior to the effective cancellation date.

What are the registration requirements?

It is considered illegal to perform services as a health navigator in Texas without first obtaining the proper registration to do so. To become registered, applicants must:

• provide the department with the procedures and evidence of financial responsibility
• supply a list of individuals performing navigator services under the supervision of the entity
• be at least 18 years of age
• be a citizen of the United States
• submit to fingerprinting and a background check under Chapter 1, Subchapter D
• complete the required application form and submit it to the department

Additional Resources

Navigator Registration Information

Navigator Registration Forms

Subchapter W. Regulation of Navigators for Health Benefit Exchanges

Texas Administrative Code Title 28 Part 1 Chapter 19 - Financial Responsibility

Texas Department of Insurance