Florida Professional Solicitor Bond
Overview
Florida requires professional solicitors to carry a surety bond before they can legally solicit charitable contributions on behalf of nonprofit organizations. This bond protects Florida donors and the public from fraudulent or unlawful fundraising practices. It is a statewide licensing requirement enforced through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Without it, a professional solicitor cannot register or operate in the state.
Who Needs This Bond?
Paid fundraising professionals, for-hire solicitation companies, and individuals who contract with charities to conduct donation campaigns in Florida all need this bond. If you are compensated to solicit contributions from the public on behalf of a charitable organization — whether by phone, door-to-door, or any other method — you are classified as a professional solicitor under Florida law. This bond is not required of the charities themselves, only of the third-party solicitors they hire.
What is this Bond For?
This bond is a financial guarantee that the professional solicitor will comply with Florida's charitable solicitation laws and handle donor funds properly. If a solicitor misappropriates contributions, makes false representations, or violates state consumer protection rules, a harmed party can file a claim against the bond. The bond holds the solicitor financially accountable and provides a recovery mechanism for aggrieved donors or charitable organizations.
When is it Required?
Before submitting a professional solicitor registration application to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, you must secure this bond. The department will not approve or renew your registration without proof that the bond is in place. Plan to obtain the bond as one of your first steps in the registration process so it does not delay your ability to begin working.
Where Does it Apply?
This bond is a statewide Florida requirement and applies to professional solicitor activity conducted anywhere within the state. It is issued to satisfy the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services registration process. There is no county or city equivalent — one statewide bond covers your registration.
How to Buy Online
Click 'Buy This Bond Online' on this page and the secure surety portal will open in a new tab. Complete the application, and your bond documents will be issued and available for download. You can submit proof of bond to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services without waiting on an agent or phone call.
Why Bond Titan?
Bond Titan is powered by The Southern Agency and built for business owners who need a bond now — not next week. Our nationwide catalog includes Florida's professional solicitor bond, and you can buy it entirely online without calling anyone. Fast issuance, zero runaround.