Bond Types Explained
There are dozens of surety bond types, but they fall into a handful of major categories. Each guide below covers what the bond is, who needs it, what it costs, and where broker fees hide.
Performance Bonds
Guarantees you'll finish the job — or the surety will make it right.
Bid Bonds
Proves you're serious about your bid — and can back it up.
License & Permit Bonds
The bond your state requires before you can legally operate.
Payment Bonds
Ensures subs and suppliers get paid — even if the GC doesn't.
Permit Bonds
Required before a government agency issues a permit for regulated activity.
Court Bonds
Required by courts to protect parties in legal proceedings.
Customs Bonds
Required by CBP for businesses importing goods into the United States.
Fidelity Bonds
Protects your business from employee theft, fraud, and dishonesty.
Not sure which bond you need?
Start with our guide to how bonding works. It covers the basics, the three-party relationship, and how to figure out which bond type applies to your situation.
How Bonding Works →