A public official bond is a promise that a person in a public office will do their job honestly. It protects the public and public money.
- Who needs it
- Many elected and appointed officials
- Typical bond amount
- Set by law for the office
- What you pay
- From $50; larger bonds use a small percent
- Term
- Length of the term of office
- A claim protects
- The public and public funds
What is a Public Official Bond?
A public official bond protects the people. If an official steals public money or breaks the public's trust on purpose, the bond pays the people they harmed. It covers the honest performance of their duties.
Many states require it by law when an elected or appointed official takes office. The bond gives the public a safety net.
Who needs a Public Official Bond?
Treasurers, tax collectors, clerks, sheriffs, judges, and many other public officials may need one. The rule depends on the office and the state.
The government sets the bond amount, based on the office and the money it handles.
How does a Public Official Bond work?
Here is the general path:
- The government sets the bond amount for the office.
- The official buys the bond from Junno Surety.
- The bond is filed with the proper office.
- The official is sworn in and starts the job.
- If the official breaks the public's trust, the public or government can file a claim.
Honest service and clean records keep the bond claim free.
How much does a Public Official Bond cost?
Small offices can start at about $50. Larger bonds use the industry rate minus 5%, based on the bond amount and credit.
Junno Surety works with cities, counties, and school districts to keep these bonds affordable and easy to renew.
What happens if someone files a claim?
A claim happens when an official steals public money or breaks their duty on purpose, and it harms the public. The bond pays the harmed party up to the bond amount, and then the bond company collects from the official.
How to get your Public Official Bond from Junno Surety
Junno Surety can bond public officials quickly. Tell us the office and the required amount, and we will quote you the same day so the swearing-in stays on schedule.
We are a licensed surety bond agency and can often issue your public official bond the same day. Start your free quote → or call (762) 499-0237.
Things to know about a Public Official Bond
A public official bond is about trust in public office. When someone handles public money, the law often requires a bond so the public has a safety net. Treasurers, tax collectors, clerks, and sheriffs are common examples. The amount is set by law and depends on the office and the money it handles. Small offices can start very low, while offices that handle large funds need bigger bonds. The bond covers honest service. It pays the public if an official steals or breaks their duty on purpose. Clean records and honest work keep the bond claim free. We work with cities, counties, and school districts to keep these bonds simple and affordable.
Frequently asked questions
Who needs a public official bond?
Many elected and appointed officials, like treasurers, tax collectors, clerks, and sheriffs. The rule depends on the office and state.
What does the bond cover?
The honest performance of the official's duties. It pays the public if the official steals or breaks their trust on purpose.
How much does it cost?
Small offices can start at about $50. Larger bonds cost a small percent of the bond amount.
Who pays for a public official bond?
Often the government office pays, but sometimes the official does. It depends on local rules. We can bond it either way.
What does the bond cover?
It covers the honest performance of the official's duties. It protects public funds if the official steals or breaks their trust on purpose.