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Surety1 Listens to Your Questions, and We Have Answers

The surety bond world can be difficult to navigate if you aren’t familiar with this space. We understand that and want you to feel comfortable when you apply for a surety bond. Surety1 helps you with the fine print and the red tape.

Here are some of the more frequently asked questions we encounter:

When do I need a bond?

There are many circumstances where a surety bond is required as a condition of a contract or a business or professional license. The bond is a guarantee that you will meet your obligations. A bond doesn’t protect you; it protects the obligee from you.

What is the difference between the surety, the obligee and the principal?

The surety is the guarantor who is legally obligated to pay the obligee if the principal fails to meet their obligation. You, as our client, would be the principal. The obligee is likely to be a government agency or other entity requiring you to obtain a surety bond.

How do I know what type of bond I need?

We can help you there! There are literally dozens of types of surety bonds. Please visit our Bond Info Center for an overview.

How long does it take to get a surety bond?

Depending on the type of bond you need, it can take anywhere from 10 minutes to two business days for the approval. Our goal is to get your bond approved as quickly as possible.

How much coverage do I need and how much will it cost?

Many bonds require an underwriting process used to evaluate risk, but it’s our goal to find you the lowest price for the type of bond you need.

The fee is typically between one and three percent. Other bonds require a credit history check and the fee varies depending on the costs incurred and other factors.

Can I obtain a bond if I have a less than stellar credit history?

In most cases, we can definitely help you. We work with you to get you the surety bond you need so you can continue to build equity in your business. Surety1 works with many secondary surety markets to get you the best possible quote. Depending on the state and type of bond you are requesting, there are many surety bonds that aren’t based on your personal credit score. Secondary surety market rates usually range from five to 24 percent of the bond amount.

Why is my spouse’s information and signature required on a surety bond application?

If you are legally married in any of the U.S states, you usually have joint assets. A surety bond requires spousal indemnification for accountability purposes. Your spouse must be willing to accept the responsibility of the financial obligations that are part and parcel of a surety bond.

If a surety bond is a form of insurance, why do I have to pay if there is a claim?

A surety bond is not the same as an insurance policy. The main difference is that insurance is in place to cover accidents because we KNOW there will be accidents, and thus losses.  A surety bond operates on the assumption there will be ZERO loss, so when there is a loss, the principal is obligated to pay back the surety company.

Surety1 is the leader in surety bonds. Please call our toll free line to talk to our friendly, knowledgeable staff at 1-877-654-2327 between 8am – 4:30pm PST or email us at info@surety1.com
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