What is an Indiana Auto Dealer Bond?
Any auto dealer operating in Indiana is required to have a valid license in order to operate the business legally. Indiana auto dealers must also secure an Indiana auto dealer bond as part of their business requirements. An Indiana auto dealer bond is a type of surety bond that helps protect the state and the dealer's customers from fraudulent or misleading business practices.
Should a claim be made against an Indiana auto dealer bond, compensation is paid to the state or the customer harmed in the transaction with the auto dealer. This is not insurance for the auto dealer, but instead protection put in place for the buying public.
Who Needs an Indiana Auto Dealer Bond?
As with many states, auto dealers are defined as individuals or business entities engaging in the business or selling or purchasing motor vehicles for a profit. In Indiana, this includes wholesale dealers, transfer dealers, distributors, manufacturers, auctioneers, and retail dealers. Each type of auto dealer is required to have an Indiana auto dealer bond.
Indiana Auto Dealer Bond Obligee Details
As a type of surety bond, an Indiana auto dealer bond consists of three main players. The principal of the bond is the auto dealer required to secure a bond as part of the state's licensing requirements. The surety company provides the bond on behalf of the principal, and lists the state's licensing authority, known as the obligee of the bond, on the bond certificate.
The obligee for Indiana auto dealer bonds is as follows:
Indiana Secretary of State
Dealer Division
Indiana Government Center South
302 W Washington Street, Room E018
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
How Much Does an Indiana Auto Dealer Bond Cost?
All auto dealers in Indiana must post an auto dealer bond of no less than $25,000, regardless of the type or amount of vehicles sold. However, this is not the price paid for an Indiana auto dealer bond. The out-of-pocket cost for a bond, known as the bond premium, is calculated as a percentage of the bond total. The bond premium typically ranges from 1 to 10% of the $25,000 bond amount.
Indiana auto dealers must undergo a credit check to determine the price paid for the bond premium. A credit check is required because the surety company takes on risk when issuing a new bond. If an auto dealer has a questionable financial track record or bad credit, the bond premium will be on the higher end of the range than an auto dealer who has a strong credit history.
How do You Get an Indiana Auto Dealer Bond?
To get started with an Indiana auto dealer bond, a brief online application can be submitted. The surety company needs information about the bond type and amount required, as well as financial details for the auto dealer. Once these details are reviewed, a quote is provided for the Indiana auto dealer bond. Each bond is issued for a one-year term, and it must be renewed each year if the auto dealer wants to remain compliant with state laws.
