Process Server Bond
What is a process server bond?
A process server bond is a license bond that guarantees process servers follow state laws and regulations when serving legal documents. It’s a financial agreement between the principal (process server), the surety bond company, and the entity requiring the bond (usually the state or county government).
The bond protects the state and your clients. If you violate the terms of your bond agreement, someone may file a claim against you. A common reason for this occurrence is the mishandling of legal documents.
What is a process server?
A process server gives legal notice to parties involved in lawsuits. The bond ensures they do perform their duties promptly so any parties involved in the case can proceed accordingly.
Get Your Process Server Bond:
Quick Takeaways
- A process server bond ensures that process servers follow state laws and regulations when serving legal documents.
- You may need this as an individual planning to serve legal documents or as an employee of a government agency or law firm.
- In some states, you must file a separate bond for each county or city you work in.
How much does a process server bond cost?
The cost of a process server bond can vary depending on several factors, including the state, the bond amount, and the applicant’s creditworthiness. Generally, you will pay between 1% to 15% of the bond amount. For example, if you need a $10,000 bond, your premium could range from $100 to $1,500. Applicants with good credit typically pay a lower premium than those with bad credit.
At ZipBonds, we often issue these bonds instantly for just $100. Call us at (888) 435-4191 or apply online to get bonded ASAP.
Who needs a process server surety bond?
Process servers in various states are required to obtain a process server bond to receive a license to serve legal documents. You may need this as an individual planning to serve legal documents or as an employee of a government agency or law firm.
If you plan to operate your business in any of the following states, you may need a bond.
- California: $2,000 bond
- Florida: $5,000 bond
- Nebraska: $15,000 bond
- New York: $10,000 (individuals) or $100,000 (firms) bond
- Montana: $10,000 (individuals) or $100,000 (firms) bond
- Connecticut: $1,000 bond
- Oklahoma: $5,000 bond
- Alaska: $15,000 – $100,000 minimum bond
In some states, you must file a separate bond for each county or city you work in.
How to Qualify for Your Process Server Surety Bond
To obtain a process server bond, follow these general steps:
- Determine the bond amount required by your state’s licensing agency.
- Find a reputable surety bond company (like ZipBonds).
- Complete the bond application by providing information about your business, personal background, and financial history.
- Provide any additional documentation or collateral required by the surety bond company.
- Pay a bond premium.
- The surety bond company will issue the bond and provide you with a copy. You must file the original bond with your state licensing agency to obtain or renew your process server license.
How do bond claims work?
You could face a bond claim if you violate the terms of the process server bond agreement by failing to comply with state laws or engaging in fraudulent activities. The claimant (the state or a customer) will file a claim with the surety bond company. Then the surety bond company will investigate the claim to determine its validity.
If deemed valid, the surety will pay out the amount of the claim up to the bond limit. You will then be responsible for reimbursing the surety for the amount paid out.
Get Your Process Server Surety Bond
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.