How to Update Your Surety Bond Using a Bond Rider
The only legal method of updating a surety bond form without invalidating the original bond is through a document called a bond rider. Learn what bond riders are, how they work, and where to get one in this guide.
What Is a Bond Rider?
The definition of a bond rider is a legal form used to modify the provisions of a surety bond. It can be used to update various aspects of the bond — such as name, address, coverage, term length and other details — without the need to issue a new bond.
When Do You Need a Bond Rider?
You may need a bond rider in the following instances:
- You need to extend or decrease the bond term
- You need greater bond coverage
- You need to update certain terms and conditions
- The parties involved have changed
- The original bond contained an error, such as a misspelled address
- The legal business structure changed
- The legal business name or address changed
Not sure if you need a rider? Just email your provider with the requested change information. They will provide next steps and instructions.
You can reach our support team Mon–Fri by emailing [email protected].
What Information on My Bond Form Can Be Changed With a Rider?
Here are some of the corrections a bond rider can cover:
- Principal(s) name
- Trade name
- Legal/business address
- Bond term/expiration date
- Ownership structure
- Bond amount
- Bond number
Not all information on a surety bond form is modifiable. Major changes may require a brand new bond.
How Much Does Getting a Bond Rider Cost?
Many surety agencies will charge a fixed fee of $25–$40 to issue a bond rider — but not us. At SuretyBonds.com, we'll issue your rider free of charge!
How to Request a Change to Your Bond Form
If you purchased a bond and need to modify your information, submit a change request to your provider. Gather the answers to these questions:
- Has the bond been filed?
- What is the exact change needed?
- Have you verified if the obligee has any specific instructions regarding the change?
- Is the obligee requiring a new bond, or will they accept a rider document?
- When does the change need to go into effect?
If you’re a current customer, email this information to [email protected].
You must confirm the exact documentation required by the obligee before a SuretyBonds.com team member can process the change request.
Can I Update My Own Surety Bond?
No, you cannot update your own bond form. Any changes you make to a bond form are not legally-binding without being reviewed, approved and issued by the surety provider.
The obligee will always determine what document set is required for any given bond change.
How to Complete a Bond Rider Form
After receiving your bond rider, you’ll need to sign and submit the official form to the obligee. Sometimes, an attorney-in-fact will also need to sign the rider document.
Here’s the step-by-step bond rider process:
- Contact your surety provider
- Provide clear documentation about the necessary changes
- Receive approval from the surety provider
- Review and sign the bond rider, and ensure any other parties sign as needed
- Submit the original rider form to the obligee and keep a copy for your records
If you purchased your bond from SuretyBonds.com, our experts will help determine if a bond rider is necessary and guide you through the rest of the process.
