Public Official Bond

A public official bond guarantees that an elected or appointed official will faithfully perform the duties of their office, such as handling public money honestly and following the law. State laws, city and county charters, and other government entities often require one before an official takes office. If the official fails in those duties and causes a loss, the government or the public can make a claim against the bond. Federal officials may need a similar bond, sometimes called a federal official bond.

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Required byGovernment entity

Bond amountSet by law or entity

TermYour term of office

PremiumQuoted by underwriting

How a public official bond works

The bond is an agreement among three parties: you, the public official (principal); the government entity that requires the bond (obligee); and the surety that issues it. For example, if a county treasurer misappropriates public funds, the county can make a claim against the treasurer's bond. The surety investigates, and a valid claim is paid up to the bond amount. If the surety pays a claim, the official must repay the surety.

Who needs one

Requirements depend on the office and the jurisdiction. Officials who handle public money or property are the most likely to need a bond, including treasurers, tax collectors and their deputies; sheriffs, deputies and constables; judges and court clerks; and town supervisors and clerks. Bonds may be required by municipal, county, state and federal governments, as well as school districts, universities and court offices.

Bond amount and your premium

The law or the government entity that requires the bond sets the amount, often based on the office and how much public money it handles. That amount is the most the surety will pay on claims, not the price you pay. Your premium depends on the surety's underwriting, with personal credit as a major factor. In some places, the government entity pays the premium. Request a quote rather than relying on a fixed rate.

How to apply

Apply as soon as you are elected or appointed, since many offices require the bond to be filed before you take the oath of office. Start the online application with your information, the office you will hold and the bond amount required. WWIS will review your submission and help you with the quote, the required bond form and issuance. Approval and timing depend on the surety and a complete application.

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Application checklist

Information needed to apply

The title of your office and the start and end dates of your term.
The bond amount and bond form required, and the government entity the bond must name.
Where the bond must be filed and the deadline, such as before you take office.
Your personal information and credit, plus any documents the surety requests.

Term and renewal

A public official bond usually covers your term of office, and you may need a new bond if you are re-elected or reappointed. Some bonds renew each year during a longer term. Some government entities cover many officials and employees under one blanket bond instead of individual bonds. Check with your entity to see which applies to your office.

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