Custodian Bond

The role of a custodian is to manage their clients’ funds and assets. The client is a ward or beneficiary. A custodian has the power to act on behalf of their clients, which may include making investments and payments. When a beneficiary is a minor, the custodian is charged with limiting that minor’s activities and may make purchases and financial contributions on their behalf. The bond ensures that the custodian performs this role ethically, legally, and in the client’s best interest.

If you’ve read our page on guardianship bonds, you may wonder how guardians differ from custodians. Guardianship and custody both take place in probate courts and often require surety bonds. While the two are very similar and often confused, there are some noteworthy differences.

• Guardianship: The court may appoint a legal guardian to care for someone (a minor, elderly adult, or disabled adult). The guardian makes decisions on behalf of this person regarding their welfare and care. Guardianship is often – though not always – more permanent than custody, which is more flexible.
• Custodian: Sometimes, the court appoints a third party (in addition to a parent or relative taking custody of someone) to manage a beneficiary’s funds and assets.

To get your court-ordered custodian bond, apply with a trusted surety provider licensed to work in your state, like ZipBonds. We can quickly process your bond application.

To apply, you’ll need to provide applicable court documents and information, which may include the following items:

• Copy of your court order
• List of assets
• List of estimated annual expenses

Once we’ve reviewed your application, you can pay your premium and print your bond!