License & Permit
Charitable Solicitation Bond
A bond states require from paid fundraisers and solicitors who raise money for charities, protecting donors and the state from misused funds.
- Required by
- State charity regulators (in Alabama, the Attorney General; in Florida, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services)
- Bond amount
- Set by whoever requires the bond. We confirm it.
What this bond guarantees
The bond promises the state, and anyone harmed, that the solicitor or fundraiser will follow the state's charitable solicitation law. If the solicitor misuses donations or violates the law, the state or a harmed person can claim on the bond. The solicitor must repay the surety for any claim paid.
Who needs it
- Professional solicitors paid to ask for donations
- Professional fundraisers and fundraising counsel that handle funds
- Telemarketing firms calling for charities
What the underwriter looks at
- Owner's personal credit
- Firm financial statements
- Fundraising volume
- Complaint and regulatory history
Requirements vary by state and by who asks for the bond. Send us the request you received and we will confirm exactly what it calls for.
Common questions
What do Alabama and Florida require?
Alabama requires a $10,000 bond under Code of Alabama 13A-9-71, filed with the Attorney General. Florida requires professional solicitors to file a $50,000 bond under Fla. Stat. 496.410.
Does the charity itself need a bond?
Usually not. The bond is for the paid solicitor or fundraiser working for the charity.