Maryland Professional Solicitor Bond: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re a professional solicitor operating in Maryland, state law requires you to obtain a Maryland Professional Solicitor Bond as part of the licensing process. This bond serves as a financial guarantee that you will comply with state regulations and operate ethically when soliciting donations on behalf of charitable organizations.

I’ve worked with many professional solicitors navigating Maryland’s bonding requirements, and I’ve found that understanding why this bond is necessary, how much it costs, and how to get it quickly can make the process much smoother. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Maryland Professional Solicitor Bond?

A Maryland Professional Solicitor Bond is a surety bond required by the Maryland Secretary of State for individuals or businesses that solicit donations for charitable organizations.

This bond protects the public and ensures that solicitors handle donations ethically and in compliance with Maryland laws. If a solicitor engages in fraudulent, deceptive, or illegal activities, a claim can be made against the bond to compensate affected individuals or organizations.

Key Features of the Bond:

✔ Required for professional solicitors operating in Maryland
✔ Ensures compliance with Maryland’s Charitable Solicitations Act
✔ Protects donors and charitable organizations from fraud or misrepresentation
✔ Provides financial recourse if the solicitor violates the law

Without this bond, professional solicitors cannot legally operate in Maryland.

Who Needs a Maryland Professional Solicitor Bond?

If you are a professional solicitor, meaning you solicit charitable donations on behalf of a nonprofit or charity for compensation, Maryland law requires you to obtain this bond.

Who Is Required to Get This Bond?

• Independent professional solicitors

• Fundraising companies

• Third-party organizations managing charitable donations

• Businesses collecting donations on behalf of nonprofits

Who Is Exempt?

• Charitable organizations raising funds on their own behalf

• Volunteers or employees of a charity who do not receive additional compensation for soliciting donations

If you’re unsure whether you need this bond, check with the Maryland Secretary of State’s Charitable Organizations Division.

How Much Does a Maryland Professional Solicitor Bond Cost?

The bond amount required in Maryland is $25,000. However, this does not mean you have to pay $25,000 upfront. Instead, you pay a small percentage of the bond amount as a premium, which is determined by the surety provider based on various factors.

Typical Cost of the Bond:

✅ $250 to $750 per year, depending on your financial history

Factors That Influence Bond Pricing:

✔ Credit Score – Higher scores often result in lower premiums
✔ Business Experience – Established solicitors may get better rates
✔ Bond Provider – Different sureties offer different rates

Even if you have bad credit, you can still qualify for a bond, though the premium may be higher.

Why Is This Bond Important?

The Maryland Professional Solicitor Bond plays a crucial role in protecting donors, charitable organizations, and the integrity of the fundraising process.

What Does the Bond Guarantee?

🔹 Compliance with Maryland’s charitable solicitation laws
🔹 Truthful representation of charities and donation purposes
🔹 Proper handling and distribution of donations
🔹 Protection for donors against fraudulent solicitation practices

If a solicitor misuses donations, provides false information, or engages in deceptive practices, the bond ensures that financial compensation is available to affected parties.

How to Get a Maryland Professional Solicitor Bond

The process of obtaining a Professional Solicitor Bond in Maryland is quick and straightforward.

Step-by-Step Process:

1️⃣ Confirm bond requirements – Maryland requires a $25,000 bond for all professional solicitors.
2️⃣ Choose a reputable surety provider – Work with a licensed provider offering competitive rates.
3️⃣ Complete an application – This includes business information, financial details, and licensing information.
4️⃣ Pay the bond premium – Typically $250 to $750 per year, depending on qualifications.
5️⃣ Receive your bond – Submit it to the Maryland Secretary of State as part of your licensing paperwork.

Many professional solicitors can obtain their bond instantly, especially for smaller bond amounts.

What Happens If You Don’t Have a Bond?

Failing to obtain a Maryland Professional Solicitor Bond can lead to serious legal and financial consequences, including:

❌ Denial or revocation of your professional solicitor license
❌ Fines and penalties for non-compliance
❌ Lawsuits from charities or donors for financial misconduct
❌ Reputational damage and loss of business opportunities

Since this bond is a legal requirement, failing to maintain it can jeopardize your ability to work as a professional solicitor in Maryland.

Common Myths About the Professional Solicitor Bond

I’ve worked with many professional solicitors who have misconceptions about what a surety bond is and how it works. Here are some common myths and the truth behind them:

🚫 “The bond protects my business if I get sued.”
✅ Fact: The bond protects donors and charitable organizations, not the solicitor. If a claim is filed, the solicitor must repay any amounts covered by the surety.

🚫 “I need to pay the full $25,000 upfront.”
✅ Fact: You only pay a small percentage (typically $250 to $750 per year) as a premium.

🚫 “I only need the bond once.”
✅ Fact: The bond must be renewed annually to maintain compliance with Maryland law.

🚫 “Only large fundraising firms need this bond.”
✅ Fact: Any compensated solicitor in Maryland, regardless of size, must have this bond.

Why Work With Us?

I’ve helped many professional solicitors obtain their bonds quickly and affordably, and I understand the challenges of meeting Maryland’s licensing requirements. That’s why we make the bonding process fast, simple, and hassle-free.

When You Work With Us, You Get:

✔ Instant Approvals – Many bonds issued the same day
✔ Low Rates – Competitive pricing with no hidden fees
✔ Trusted Surety Providers – Backed by A-rated carriers
✔ Expert Assistance – Guidance from professionals who understand Maryland’s professional solicitor bond requirements

If you need a Maryland Professional Solicitor Bond, I’m here to help. Let’s get your bond issued quickly and at the best rate, so you can focus on your work.

👉 Get a free quote today!