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Surety Bonds

A surety bond is a document signed by the contractor and the surety company that assures the project owner the contract will be completed.

Contractors obtain surety bonds from surety companies or agents representing surety companies. Most public construction contracts and many private contracts require one, so if you’re a construction or service contractor bidding on a project, you’ll probably need a surety bond.

SBA guarantees bid, performance and payment bonds issued by surety companies. This Federal guarantee encourages surety companies to bond small businesses who are having difficulty obtaining bonding on their own.

Explore these links to learn more about surety bonds, why you may need a surety bond and how SBA can help you obtain one.

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    Surety Bonds: The Basics

    A surety bond ensures contract completion in the event of contractor default. A project owner seeks a contractor to fulfill a contract. Learn more about surety bonds.

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    Prior Approval & Preferred Programs

    The SBA Surety Bond Guarantee Program consists of the Prior Approval Program and the Preferred Program. Learn about these two programs.

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    Participating Surety Companies & Agents

    Find companies and agents who participate in SBA's Surety Guarantee program.

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    For Contractors

    Determine if your business is eligible for a surety bond guarantee and learn how to apply for one.

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    For Surety Companies and Agents

    Learn how surety companies and agents can participate in SBA's Surety Bond Guarantee Program. Also find out how surety companies and agents can submit bond guarantee applications to SBA.

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    Bond Guarantee Application Forms

    Find bond guarantee application forms for the Prior Approval Program and the Preferred Program.

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