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License or Permit Bond - Retail Electric Supplier (RES/ARES)

This bond is required for Alternative Retail Electric Suppliers (ARES) operating in Illinois to obtain and maintain their license from the Illinois Commerce Commission. The bond amount ranges from $30,000 to $300,000 depending on the customer base served, ensuring suppliers fulfill their duties and obligations to prot…

Bond amount$30,000
State or jurisdictionIllinois
ObligeeIllinois Commerce Commission (ICC)

Essential point: Pin down whether this is your bond, then start the application. Ava can confirm the right state and license type if you are not sure.

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Overview

What it is.

This bond is required for Alternative Retail Electric Suppliers (ARES) operating in Illinois to obtain and maintain their license from the Illinois Commerce Commission. The bond amount ranges from $30,000 to $300,000 depending on the customer base served, ensuring suppliers fulfill their duties and obligations to prot…

Who usually needs it

Alternative Retail Electric Suppliers (ARES) and Retail Electric Suppliers (RES) who want to sell electricity to retail customers in Illinois must obtain this bond as part of their certification application and maintain it continuously throughout their operations.

Pricing & timing

What to expect.

Generic pricing

Utility bonds are required by utility companies to guarantee payment for services. Typical Pricing:. • Small utility bonds: Typically $100–$250 per year (flat fee). • Larger utility bonds: Commonly around 1–5% of the bond amount annually. • Credit impact: Good credit: starting around 1–2% · Average credit: typically 2–4% · Credit challenges: often 4–5% or higher. Most utility bonds qualify for instant approval. Bond amounts are typically set by the utility company based on expected usage.

Your quote determines the actual premium.

Typical timeframe

Issuance timeframe varies by bond type and underwriting

Timing can change when underwriting needs more information.
Application details

How it works.

  1. Start the application

    Confirm the bond and provide applicant and business details.

  2. Review the quote

    See the terms and premium before deciding to continue.

  3. Pay and sign

    Complete the required payment and signatures.

  4. Receive the bond

    Get the issued bond and filing or delivery instructions.

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Frequently asked

Common questions.

What is the Illinois ARES bond used for?

The bond ensures full and faithful performance of all duties and obligations required of Alternative Retail Electric Suppliers in Illinois. It protects consumers and the state by guaranteeing that suppliers comply with regulations under 83 Ill. Adm. Code 451.50. If you fail to meet your obligations, claims can be filed against the bond.

How long must I maintain my Illinois ARES bond?

You must maintain the bond continuously for at least one year and throughout your entire operation as an Alternative Retail Electric Supplier in Illinois. If your bond decreases (for example, due to a claim being paid), you must file an additional or replacement bond at least 15 days in advance to keep the cumulative value at or above the required amount.

What determines the bond amount for an Illinois ARES bond?

The bond amount depends on the customer base you serve: $30,000 if you only serve large nonresidential customers with maximum electrical demand of 1 megawatt or more; $150,000 if you serve nonresidential customers with annual consumption greater than 15,000 kWh; and $300,000 if you serve all eligible retail customers including residential customers.

Next step

Ready to move forward?

Start the secure application with this bond already selected, or ask Ava a question before you begin.

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