Wisconsin Specialty School Bond Guide
If you’re opening a barbering or cosmetology school in Wisconsin, you’ll need to file a specialty school bond with the state.
Bond Overview
- Purpose: To protect prepaid tuition funds if a school closes or doesn’t fulfill student contracts
- Who Needs It: Barbering and cosmetology schools in Wisconsin
- Regulating Body: The Wisconsin DSPS, Division of Professional Credential Processing
- Required Coverage: $25,000, $40,000 or $50,000 based on number of students
- Premium Rate: Typically 1% of the bond amount, credit-based
Learn all about the specialty bond requirements and process in this guide.
What Is a Wisconsin Specialty School Bond?
A Wisconsin specialty school bond, also known as a barbering or cosmetology school bond, protects tuition payers from financial harm if the school closes.
The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS), Division of Professional Credential Processing requires this bond as part of the license approval process.
Which Bond Amount Do I Need?
Your specialty school bond amount required by the DSPS will depend on the number of students enrolled.
See the table below to determine which coverage option you need.
| Enrolled Students | Bond Amount |
|---|---|
| 0–50 | $25,000 |
| 51–100 | $40,000 |
| 101+ | $50,000 |
The state reserves the right to increase the bond amount if deemed necessary to protect students and tuition payers from financial loss.
How Much Do Specialty School Bonds Cost in Wisconsin?
A Wisconsin barbering or cosmetology school bond premium costs a small percentage of the bond amount. Qualified applicants often pay just 1%. For example, you could get a $25,000 bond for as low as $250.
Exact rates vary based on underwriting review. Apply for your free, personalized quote now!
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
Who Needs a Barbering/Cosmetology or Specialty School Bond?
The Wisconsin DSPS, Division of Professional Credential Processing requires this bond for specialty schools teaching the following subjects:
- Aesthetics
- Barbering
- Cosmetology
- Electrology
- Manicuring
You’ll need to file the bond as part of the initial license application process.
Note: There is a separate bond requirement for private schools in Wisconsin.
How Do I Get My Bond?
SuretyBonds.com provides the fastest and easiest way to get a Wisconsin barbering or cosmetology school bond. Just follow these quick steps:
- Apply: Submit an online quote request form
- Quote: Receive your free quote in 1 business day
- Sign: Complete the indemnity agreement
- Buy: Purchase the bond online 24/7
We’ll mail you the bond via your preferred shipping method. Be sure to file the bond along with your application in one of the following methods:
- By Mail: DSPS - Professional Credential Processing, P.O. Box 8935, Madison, WI 53708-8935
- By Email: [email protected]
If you have any questions, call our friendly surety experts at 1 (800) 308-4358 for assistance.
How Does a Wisconsin Barbering or Cosmetology School Bond Work?
As with all surety bonds, a Wisconsin cosmetology or specialty school bond creates a legal contract between three parties:
- Principal: You, the specialty school owner(s) filing the bond
- Obligee: The Wisconsin DSPS, Division of Professional Credential Processing requiring the bond
- Surety: The provider issuing the bond
This holds you financially responsible for upholding Wisconsin Statutes § 440.62 and Admin. Code § SOS 60–65.
If you don’t fulfill student contracts, harmed parties can file claims for reimbursement. The surety will pay valid claims up to the full bond amount, but you are ultimately responsible for refunding the surety.
How Do I Renew My Bond?
To renew your specialty school bond, simply pay your renewal invoice when prompted. We’ll begin contacting you by phone and email 90 days before the expiration date.
