Licensed. Bonded. Insured.
As a small business owner, you’ve probably heard these terms countless times — but what does “bonded and insured” actually mean?
In this guide, we’ll break down each term, identify the key differences, and explain how being bonded and insured can help safeguard your business and build client trust.
What Does “Bonded” Mean?
When you’re bonded, it means you’ve purchased a surety bond1 — a guarantee that your customer will be compensated if you don’t meet your obligations. It’s your way of assuring your customers that if you can’t finish the job or meet the agreed standards, they won’t be left covering the cost.
What Is a Surety Bond?
A surety bond2 is a three-party agreement that protects your customer’s investment:
- Principal: That’s you, the business owner or contractor doing the work.
- Obligee: The customer or organization requiring the bond.
- Surety: The company issuing the bond and guaranteeing your performance.
If you fail to meet your contractual or legal obligations to your customer, the surety that issued the bond will compensate your customer for their financial loss (up to the bond limits). You’re then responsible for repaying the surety.
Unlike business insurance, a surety bond doesn’t protect your business — it protects your customer by making sure that your obligations are fulfilled. That’s why they’re common in construction and other industries where following specific regulations or contracts is critical.
What Type of Surety Bond Do I Need?
The type of surety bond you need depends on your industry and the work you do. Most fall into two main categories:3
1. Commercial Bonds: Often required by government agencies for licensing or permits, these bonds ensure you follow applicable laws and regulations. They help protect the public from losses caused by non-compliance or dishonest practices.
2. Contract Bonds: Also known as construction bonds, these guarantee you’ll fulfill a project as agreed. They are often required in industries such as construction where meeting contractual terms is essential. Common types include:
- Bid Bonds: Show you have the resources to take on the job if awarded the contract.
- Performance Bonds: Protect the customer if you don’t complete the project as promised.
- Payment Bonds: Ensure your subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers get paid.
To learn more about construction bonds, why they are needed, and how to apply for one, check out this helpful article.
Why Do I Need a Bond?
Even the most reliable business owners face unexpected challenges. Illness, supply chain issues, labor shortages, or natural disasters can derail your ability to meet a contract.
A surety bond:
- May be required4 by law or licensing boards in your industry.
- Gives customers a financial safety net if you can’t complete the job.
- Can give you an edge when competing for work — it signals professionalism and accountability.
Do I Still Need Insurance?
Being bonded and having insurance serve two different functions — discussed more fully below — and we always recommend having insurance coverage, even when you’re bonded.
While a bond is designed to protect your clients, insurance protects your business. For example, workers’ compensation insurance can help cover employee injuries or illnesses that occur on the job. Even if you don’t have employees, carrying workers’ comp and general liability insurance is a smart investment. It can help protect your business financially from claims related to third-party accidents, property damage, or injuries on the job, and can help build trust and confidence with clients.
Need help finding coverage? We can connect you with quotes from top insurers who specialize in small business insurance.
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Bonded vs. Insured: What’s the Difference?
While both offer protection, they do it in very different ways. Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison:
| Bonded (surety bond) | Insured (business insurance) | |
Who it protects | Your customer or client. | You and your business. |
| Purpose | Guarantees you’ll meet your obligations; compensates the customer if you don’t. | Covers financial losses from accidents, injuries, property damage, and more. |
| Repayment | You must repay the surety company for claims they pay. | The insurance company typically pays covered claims per your policy. |
| Requirement | May be required by law, for licenses, permits, or contracts. | May be required by law or contracts. |
Bonded and Insured: You’ve Got This
The right combination of bonds and insurance can help you meet requirements, build client trust, and prepare for the unexpected. But being bonded and insured is just the start, and our online Resource Center is filled with useful articles, tools, and tips to help your growing business thrive.
Here are just a few resources to get you started:
- Why You Should Be a Licensed, Bonded and Insured Contractor
- What is a Construction Bond? Everything You Need to Know
- I Never Thought it Could Happen to Me: Jobsite Accidents, General Safety Mistakes, and Workplace Injury Prevention
If you still have questions about when and how to obtain a bond, we encourage you to speak with a licensed surety bond agent who can assist you.
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