Sue from out of state — but guarantee the costs if you lose.
Security so an out-of-state plaintiff can’t leave costs unpaid
Cost bonds guarantee that a plaintiff — most often a non-resident — will pay any court costs the defendant may be awarded. They keep an out-of-state plaintiff from suing and leaving the defendant with unrecoverable costs if the case fails.
What a cost bond guarantees
Posted by the plaintiff, usually a non-resident, the bond guarantees payment of court costs (and, depending on the statute, some fees) that may be assessed against them. It is typically triggered by the defendant’s motion. Failure to file the required bond by the court’s deadline can result in dismissal of the case.
Amounts are usually small and capped
Unlike most court bonds, cost bonds are usually modest and capped by statute or court rule — often in the range of a few hundred dollars (for example, $250–$500 in some jurisdictions), sometimes up to a few thousand. Because the amounts are small, premiums are low, often a flat minimum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has to post a cost bond?
Usually a non-resident plaintiff, on the defendant’s motion. It guarantees the plaintiff will pay any court costs awarded to the defendant. Residents typically aren’t required to post one.
How much is a cost bond?
Usually small and capped by statute or court rule — often a few hundred dollars, sometimes up to a few thousand — so the premium is low, frequently a flat minimum.
How do I get a cost bond through Cory Washington & Co.?
Request a quote or contact our team. We confirm your exact requirement, market your bond across multiple surety companies that compete for it, and handle the filing. Cory Washington & Co. LLC is licensed in all 50 states.
All surety bond descriptions on this website are provided by Cory Washington & Co. LLC strictly for general informational purposes. They are not intended to be, and should not be relied upon as, legal, financial, or bonding advice. Surety bonds are not insurance. Bond requirements — including amounts, obligees, and bond forms — are set by government authorities and other obligees and change over time; the information presented is general in nature and does not guarantee the availability, terms, conditions, or amount of any bond. Actual bond terms are governed by the bond form issued by the surety and the requirements of the obligee, and any bond remains subject to underwriting approval. Nothing on this website creates or implies an agent-client relationship, binds a surety, or issues a bond. Cory Washington & Co. LLC expressly disclaims any liability for actions taken, or not taken, based on the content provided here. For advice regarding your particular situation, please confirm current requirements with the relevant authority and consult directly with a licensed professional at Cory Washington & Co. LLC.