Washington Auction Bond Overview
- Purpose: To protect customers and ensure that auctions are held lawfully
- Who Needs It: All auctioneers and auction companies in Washington
- Regulating Body: The Washington State Department of Licensing — Auctioneer Program
- Bond Amount: $5,000–$25,000, based on gross sales
- Premium Price: $100–$164
What Is a Washington Auction Bond?
A Washington auction bond ensures that auctioneers and auction houses follow state law. The Washington Auctioneer Program requires you to file a surety bond to get a state license.
Bond Coverage Requirements
The auctioneer bond coverage amount depends on your gross annual sales from the previous calendar year. If you’re a new company, you’ll need to estimate your sales.
| Gross Sales | Bond Amount |
|---|---|
| <$25,000 | $5,000 |
| $25,000–$49,999 | $10,000 |
| $50,000–$99,999 | $15,000 |
| $100,000–$499,999 | $20,000 |
| $500,000+ | $25,000 |
How Much Do Auction Bonds Cost in Washington?
Washington auction bonds cost the following flat rates:
- $5,000–$15,000 bonds: $100
- $20,000 bond: $131
- $25,000 bond: $164
You can also choose a multi-year term to save up to 25%. Get your bond today — no credit check required!
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does an Auction Bond Work?
When you file a Washington auction bond, you enter into a three-party agreement.
| Bond Party | Description |
|---|---|
| Principal | You, the auctioneer |
| Obligee | The Washington State Department of Licensing — Auctioneer Program |
| Surety | The issuing surety provider |
This bond guarantees that you’ll uphold all Washington auction laws. If you break the bond terms, harmed parties can file claims. The surety will pay valid claims, but you’re responsible for reimbursement.
How Do I Get an Auction Bond?
Getting your Washington auction bond only takes about five minutes! Just choose your bond amount and enter a payment method. We’ll email your official bond form right after purchase.
How Do I Renew My Bond?
Washington auction bonds expire annually, unless you purchase a multi-year term. We’ll send you reminders by phone and email when it’s almost time to renew. Just pay the premium to extend your bond for another term.
Can I Make Changes to My Bond?
You can typically make changes to your bond by emailing [email protected]. If possible, we’ll issue a bond rider, which you’ll need to file with the Auctioneer Program.
How to Become an Auctioneer in Washington
First, decide what license type you need based on your business structure and annual auction sales.
| Business Type | License Needed |
|---|---|
| Individual calling bids but not managing the auction itself | Auctioneer |
| Sole proprietor arranging auctions with less than $25,000 in sales | Auctioneer |
| Sole proprietor arranging auctions with more than $25,000 in sales | Auction company |
| LLC, corporation, partnership or any business entity other than a sole proprietorship | Auction company |
Note: You cannot call bids with an auction company license.
Then, follow these steps to get your Washington auction license:
- Apply for a Unified Business Identification (UBI) with the Department of Revenue (DOR).
- Purchase the required surety bond.
- Submit your application online or by mail to the address below.
Auctioneer Program
Department of Licensing
P.O. Box 3856
Seattle, WA 98124-3856
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Auction License?
You can expect to pay at least $557 to get your Washington auction license. This includes the following fees.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Auctioneer | $171 |
| Auction Company | $281 |
| License Print and Mail | $5 |
| Surety Bond | $100+ |
