Illinois public official bonds guarantee that elected or appointed state officials will faithfully perform their duties and properly handle public funds. Bond amounts are set by statute or appointment terms and vary widely based on position—ranging from $3,000 for positions like City Attorney to $50,000+ for treasurer…
Overview
What it is.
Illinois public official bonds guarantee that elected or appointed state officials will faithfully perform their duties and properly handle public funds. Bond amounts are set by statute or appointment terms and vary widely based on position—ranging from $3,000 for positions like City Attorney to $50,000+ for treasurer…
Who usually needs it
All Illinois state officials—whether elected or appointed—who have fiduciary responsibilities or access to public funds must obtain this bond. This includes mayors, treasurers, city clerks, judges, auditors, collectors, and other government officials handling financial matters or public funds.
Pricing & timing
What to expect.
Generic pricing
Miscellaneous commercial bonds cover a wide range of business obligations not fitting other categories. Typical Pricing:. • Small bonds (under $25,000): Typically $100–$250 per year (flat fee). • Larger 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. Pricing varies by specific bond type and requirements. Some miscellaneous bonds may price higher depending o…
Typical timeframe
Credit-based approval — varies by bond type
Application
What to do next.
Tell us the bond name, state, and amount on your form.
Share business and applicant info so the team can quote it.
Sign and pay; we issue the bond and send you the documents.
Keep your effective date and renewal date on file with us.
Start the application.
You are on the exact bond page. The next step is to start the quick application.
StateILBond amount$5,000ObligeeState of Illinois or specific appointing agencyBond classMiscellaneous CommercialCategoryGovernmentBondPublic Official Bond (State Officials)Plain descriptionIllinois public official bonds guarantee that elected or appointed state officials will faithfully perform their duties and properly handle public funds. Bond amounts are set by statute or appointment terms and vary wid…Who needs this bondAll Illinois state officials—whether elected or appointed—who have fiduciary responsibilities or access to public funds must obtain this bond. This includes mayors, treasurers, city clerks, judges, auditors, collectors,…
FAQ
Common questions.
What positions in Illinois require a Public Official Bond?
Any Illinois state official—elected or appointed—who has fiduciary responsibilities or handles public funds must be bonded. This includes mayors, city treasurers, city clerks, judges, auditors, collectors, and other government officials. The bond requirement is mandated under 5 ILCS 270/1 to protect constituents from misconduct, fraud, or negligence.
How is the bond amount determined for Illinois state officials?
The bond amount is fixed by statute or set by the appointing authority based on the official's position and responsibilities. Amounts vary widely—typically $3,000 for positions like City Attorney or Mayor, and $50,000 or more for treasurers and clerks who handle significant public funds. Check your appointment letter or municipal code for the specific amount required for your position.
Who pays for the Illinois Public Official Bond premium?
In most Illinois municipalities, the city or government entity pays the surety bond premium rather than the individual official. However, this varies by jurisdiction—check with your appointing authority or municipality to confirm who is responsible for the premium payment in your specific case.
