Collateral for Bail Bonds – What You Need to Know
Posting a bail bond usually requires putting up some type of collateral or security. This is done to give the bail bondsman assurances that you will fulfill the obligations of the bond agreement. Understanding what can be used as collateral will help you be prepared when working with a bondsman.
What is Accepted as Collateral?
- Cash – This provides the greatest security for a bondsman. You simply pay a portion of the total bond amount.
- Real estate – Property deeds for a home, land or commercial real estate can be used. The property can be seized if you fail to appear.
- Jewelry or Art – High value items that are easy to store can be ideal collateral. Bondsmen may get items appraised.
- Vehicles – Car, truck or motorcycle titles can be signed over to the bondsman temporarily.
- Stocks and bonds – Financial securities or investments accounts are sometimes accepted.
- Credit cards – In some cases, bondsmen accept credit cards as collateral and will charge an amount if skipped.
Tips for Posting Collateral
- Ask what types of collateral are accepted before committing to a bondsman.
- Make sure the value sufficiently covers the full bond amount plus fees.
- Keep receipts/documentation of any collateral provided.
- Thoroughly read and understand any agreements on forfeiting collateral.
- Remove or retrieve your collateral from the bondsman once released from all bail obligations.
Providing sufficient collateral gives bondsmen the assurance they need to take on your bail bond. Knowing what can be used as collateral helps you work successfully with bondsmen to get bail posted quickly. Just be sure to get any collateral released back to you once the case is closed.
Article by:
AA Best Bail Bonds
5 Hwy 35 S
Rockport, TX 78387
Phone: 316-790-5000
