Collateral is an asset pledged to a bail bondsman as security for a bond. It's separate from the fee you pay — collateral is held and returned when the case is resolved and the bond is exonerated. For larger bonds, collateral is usually required in addition to the fee and a cosigner.
Smaller bonds often don't require collateral at all — a solid cosigner is enough. We'll tell you what's needed based on the specific bond amount and circumstances.
What counts as collateral
- Real estate (deed to a home, land, or commercial property)
- Vehicle titles (cars, trucks, motorcycles, RVs, boats)
- Jewelry and precious metals
- Stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments
- Cash equivalents
- Other valuable assets (handled case-by-case)
When collateral is typically required
For small bonds (under a few thousand dollars), collateral usually isn't required — a cosigner with verifiable identity and income is enough. For mid-range bonds ($5,000 to $25,000), collateral may or may not be required depending on the cosigner's profile and the case specifics. For large bonds ($25,000+), collateral is almost always required, and the value of collateral should cover the full bond amount.
How collateral is held
The bondsman takes possession of titles or deeds (paper documents), not the physical assets themselves. You keep driving your car and living in your house. A lien is placed on the title or a UCC filing is made — the same way a car loan or mortgage creates a lien. When the bond is exonerated, the lien is released and documents returned.
Getting collateral back
Collateral is returned when the case is fully resolved and the bond has been exonerated by the court. This usually happens automatically once the case is closed — no action needed from you. We release titles and deeds within 30 days of exoneration in most cases, often faster.
What happens if the defendant skips court
If the defendant misses court and doesn't resolve the missed appearance quickly, the bond can be forfeited. At that point the bondsman becomes liable for the full bond amount — and collateral becomes the source of recovery. We work hard to prevent this from happening by staying in touch with clients and making sure they understand their court obligations. In our 40+ year history the vast majority of our bonds have been exonerated without any forfeiture issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a vehicle I'm still making payments on?
Usually no — if the vehicle already has a lien (for the loan), there's typically not enough equity to use as collateral. We need assets you own outright or that have significant unencumbered value.
What if I don't have collateral?
For many bonds we can work with just a solid cosigner — no collateral required. If collateral is required and you don't have it, sometimes we can work with multiple cosigners or modified arrangements. Call us and we'll see what's possible.
Is my collateral at risk if the case drags on?
Length of case doesn't affect collateral on its own. Your collateral is at risk only if the defendant fails to appear in court and the bond is forfeited. As long as the defendant attends all court dates, the collateral is safe.
Can I use my home as collateral?
Yes, if you have sufficient equity. We take the deed as collateral and place a lien. The lien is released when the bond is exonerated. Your home isn't seized or at risk unless there's a forfeiture.