Credit Services Organization Bond: Ohio
What is an Ohio credit services organization bond?
Before you can obtain a license to run a credit services organization in Ohio, you must purchase a $50,000 surety bond, according to the Ohio Credit Services Organization Act. This bond ensures credit services organizations (CSOs) follow the law and abide by industry standards. If a CSO acts illegally or unethically, the injured party may file a claim against the bond – up to $50,000.
Get Your Credit Services Organization Bond:
What does a credit services organization bond in Ohio cost?
The cost of this bond is subject to underwriting and may depend on your credit score, personal financials, and business financials. Applicants may pay as low as 1% of the total bond amount. You can apply for your bond online to get approved ASAP.
Who needs a CSO bond and why?
Ohio’s Credit Organization Act defines a credit services organization as “any person that, in return for the payment of money or other valuable consideration readily convertible into money for the following services, sells, provides, or performs, or represents that the person can or will sell, provide, or perform, one or more of the following services:”
- Improving someone’s credit rating, record, or history
- Obtaining an extension of credit for someone
- Giving advice or assistance regarding the first two points
- Getting rid of adverse credit information (that’s inaccurate or not obsolete)
- Changing someone’s identification to prevent someone’s credit rating, record, or history from displaying
How does a credit services organization apply for registration in Ohio?
Here’s an overview of registering and obtaining a CSO license in Ohio using the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS).
- Undergo a criminal background check.
- Submit a Certificate of Registration and all required forms through the NMLS online system.
- Pay a $100 registration fee.
- Obtain a $50,000 surety bond.
You’ll find detailed instructions on completing your CSO license application on the Ohio CSO Certificate of Registration New Application Checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who regulates credit services organization licensing in the state?
The Ohio Department of Commerce regulates CSO registration and bonding in the state.
How do I renew my bond?
Yes, you must renew your bond and CSO registration annually. Ensure you renew your bond and registration before they expire each year so they remain active. You must also keep your bond active for at least two years after your CSO ceases operations in the state.
How do I avoid bond claims?
The best way to avoid claims is to follow the laws in your state for your industry. Working professionally, addressing consumer complaints, and resolving them quickly can help prevent claims.
How to Get a CSO Bond in Ohio
ZipBonds offers the fastest and most secure option for getting the surety bonds you need. Our all-digital platform is intuitive and straightforward. Apply online or call us at (888) 435-4191 to speak with an agent. Most of our bonds are approved and processed immediately from our site.
About ZipBonds.com
Founders Ryan Swalve and Zach Mefferd formed the vision for ZipBonds.com when they realized how overly complicated it was to help clients place surety. The frustration of being unable to incorporate the technology they’d used in other insurance-focused projects left them thinking “there has to be a better way.”
Fast forward a couple of years, and that better way is the impetus of everything we do at ZipBonds. We constantly look for innovative ways to improve the bonding process for our clients and agents. Our team comprises individuals who understand all angles of surety – for companies, agencies, and individuals. Incorporating everyone’s point of view to improve the process while simultaneously integrating cutting-edge technology is what sets our business apart.