Fundraising Bond
What is a fundraising bond?
To become a professional fundraiser or charitable organization looking to raise funds for a good cause, you may be required to obtain a fundraising bond. This bond (officially called a professional fundraiser bond) is a license and permit bond that guarantees compliance with state regulations.
The bond ensures you manage funds and campaigns properly when acting as a fundraising counselor, solicitor, associate, or grant writer. It helps protect charitable organizations and donors from any fraudulent or unethical activities.
Fundraiser bonds may go by various names, including the following:
- Paid solicitor bond
- Charitable solicitation bond
- Commercial fundraiser bond
- Professional solicitor bond
- Charitable trusts bond
Get Your Fundraising Bond:
Quick Takeaways
- To become a professional fundraiser or charitable organization looking to raise funds for a good cause, you may be required to obtain a fundraising bond.
- This surety bond guarantees compliance with state regulations and protects donors from fraudulent or unethical activities.
- Fundraiser bond requirements range from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the state.
How much does a fundraising bond cost?
The cost of a fundraising bond can vary depending on several factors, including the state where the bond is required, the bond amount, and the applicant’s creditworthiness. Generally, premiums can range from 1% to 10% of the bond amount. For example, if the bond amount is $10,000, the premium could range from $100 to $1,000.
How does a fundraising bond work?
A fundraising bond is a contract between three parties:
- Principal: The fundraiser or charitable organization
- Obligee: The state government agency that regulates fundraising activities
- Surety: The company that issues the bond
The bond guarantees that the principal will comply with state laws and regulations related to fundraising activities. If the principal fails to comply with the bond terms, the harmed party can file a claim against the bond.
The surety company will pay out the claim amount up to the total bond amount if the claim is valid. The principal is then responsible for repaying the surety company in full.
How does the application process work for fundraising bonds?
Follow these basic steps to apply for your bond:
- Determine your bond requirements. Fundraiser bonds range from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the state.
- Complete a bond application with information regarding your business or organization, the bond amount required, and personal and financial information.
- The surety company will review your application and may request additional information for underwriting.
- Once approved, you can sign the bond agreement and pay a premium to receive your bond.
- Remember to renew your bond before it expires to comply with state regulations.
Our experts can guide you through the application process and ensure you get the bond you need. Contact ZipBonds today to get started by calling (888) 435-4191.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if someone files a claim against my bond?
If someone files a claim against your bond, the surety company will investigate the claim to determine its validity. If the claim is valid, the surety will settle the claim with the claimant. However, as the bonded party, you are ultimately responsible for repaying any amount paid out by the surety company.
It’s essential to take all necessary steps to avoid claims against your bond, including complying with state regulations and conducting your fundraising activities legally and ethically. Claims are not only costly. They can damage your reputation and ability to get licensed and bonded again.
Can I get bonded with poor credit?
Yes. You can still get bonded with a low credit score by paying a higher premium.
Apply for Your Professional Fundraiser Surety Bond Today
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 get bonded in a flash!
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.