Public office, public money — backed by a public promise.
The guarantee behind an office that handles public funds
Public official bonds guarantee that an elected or appointed official — a treasurer, clerk, tax collector, sheriff, or finance officer — will perform their duties honestly and faithfully and properly account for the public funds entrusted to them.
What a public official bond guarantees
The bond bundles two obligations: honesty (protection against theft or fraud) and faithful performance (protection against failing to perform statutory duties). The obligee is the government entity and the public. It is a true surety bond — the official (or the surety, then recovering from the official) is ultimately liable — not personal insurance for the officeholder.
How the amount is set
The amount is fixed by statute, ordinance, or charter, not chosen in the market, and is often tied to the funds the office handles — for example, a finance officer’s bond may be set at a percentage of budgeted funds up to a cap. Many jurisdictions permit a blanket public official bond covering multiple officers as an alternative to individual bonds. Amounts are frequently recalculated as budgets change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a public official bond guarantee?
That an elected or appointed official will perform their duties both honestly (no theft or fraud) and faithfully (fulfilling statutory duties), and will properly account for public funds. It protects the government and the public.
How is the amount set?
By statute, ordinance, or charter — not chosen in the market — often tied to the funds the office handles. Many governments allow a blanket bond covering multiple officers.
How do I get a public official 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.