Iowa Transient Merchant Bonds
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What Is an Iowa Transient Merchant Bond?
Iowa peddler, solicitor and transient merchant bonds protect consumers and the state from unlawful business practices. By filing this surety bond, a transient merchant guarantees the state or local government that they will pay any of the following, if necessary:
- Taxes, penalties, interests or fees owed
- Court fines or damages awarded due to legal violations
The term “transient merchant” refers to any individual or company involved in temporarily or intermittently selling merchandise within the state of Iowa.
How Much Do Transient Merchant Bonds Cost in Iowa?
State-wide Iowa transient merchant bond costs vary based on the bond amount and your credit score. Prices start at $100 and are typically 1–5% of the total bond coverage.
All other city-specific Iowa peddler, solicitor and transient merchant bonds are available for instant purchase for a flat rate of $50–$100 for a one-year term. You can save an additional 25% each year by selecting a multi-year term.
Select the bond you need below to apply or buy online in minutes.
How Do I Get a Transient Merchant Bond in Iowa?
If you need a state-level bond, apply online to receive a free quote within one business day. Then, checkout using our secure, online portal. File your original bond form with the Iowa Secretary of State — Business Services Division.
You can buy all other Iowa solicitor and transient merchant bonds online on SuretyBonds.com with just three steps:
- Select the Iowa transient merchant, solicitor or peddler bond you need
- Checkout online using our secure payment portal
- Receive your bond via email or mail (depending on the city)
After receiving your bond, file it as instructed with the local licensing authority.
How Does an Iowa Transient Merchant/Peddler Bond Work?
A transient merchant, solicitor or peddler bond bind three parties in a legal contract:
- Principal: The transient vendor purchasing the bond to sell goods in Iowa
- Obligee: The Iowa government office requiring the vendor to be bonded
- Surety: The company issuing the bond and backing the merchant
As a transient vendor, if your actions cause damages or financial loss, harmed parties can file a claim for compensation. For example, if a merchant doesn’t pay their taxes, the city licensing authority can file a claim for reimbursement from the surety.
Who Needs an Iowa Transient Merchant Bond?
Transient businesses and peddlers must be bonded in the following Iowa cities and counties:
- Altoona
- Brooklyn
- Clive
- Coralville
- Des Moines
- Dubuque
- Grimes
- Mount Vernon
- Montezuma
- Pleasant Hill
- Sioux City
- Spencer
- Storm Lake
- West Des Moines
If you are operating in a city outside of this list, you must file a statewide transient merchant license bond with the Iowa Secretary of State to be licensed.
How to Get a Transient Merchant License in Iowa
To conduct business as a transient merchant anywhere in Iowa without specific licensing ordinances, you must apply for a transient merchant license with the state per Iowa Code Chapter 9C. Applicants must complete the following steps:
- Obtain an Iowa retailer’s sales tax permit
- Be authorized to do business in Iowa
- File a surety bond for 2x the value of goods to be offered or the average value of merchandise inventory
- Pay the $25 filing fee to the Secretary of State
- Submit the Transient Merchant Application form
- Apply at least 10 days before making any sales
Take the first step by applying for your surety bond today!
Have Questions?
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