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What is a Massachusetts Auto Dealer Bond?
Having a license to do business as an auto dealer in the state of Massachusetts is required by current law. Part of the licensing process involves obtaining a Massachusetts auto dealer bond.
Licensed auto dealers are required to secure this type of Massachusetts surety bond to ensure they comply with the rules and regulations relevant to the sale and exchange of motor vehicles.
When an auto dealer fails to conduct business legally, whether that be fraudulent dealings with a customer or non-compliance with the state, a claim can be made against a Massachusetts auto dealer bond. Claims are ultimately the responsibility of the auto dealer because they must be repaid over time.
How Does a Massachusetts Auto Dealer Bond Work?
A Massachusetts auto dealer bond is a form of a surety bond, which represents a three-party agreement.
The Obligee
The state or local licensing authority responsible for overseeing the motor vehicle dealer industry is known as the obligee of the bond.
The Principal
The auto dealer is the principal of the bond, or the business or individual responsible for acquiring and maintaining the bond.
The Surety
The surety company provides the bond to the principal and helps manage claims when they arise.
Massachusetts Auto Dealer Bond Obligee Details
Unlike many other states, the obligee of a Massachusetts auto dealer bond is not a department of the state. Instead, the obligee is represented by the city or county licensing authority in which the auto dealer operates their business.
Who Needs a Massachusetts Auto Dealer Bond?
Massachusetts defines an auto dealer as an individual or a business that engages in the sale, purchase, or exchange of motor vehicles. Both new and used auto dealers are required to have a valid license and a Massachusetts auto dealer bond.
How Do You Get a Massachusetts Auto Dealer Bond?
Licensed auto dealers can begin the process of securing a Massachusetts auto dealer bond by submitting a brief application online. Once the surety company reviews the bond amount and credit history of the applicant, a bond premium is quoted.
Auto dealers then submit payment for the bond and follow any additional instructions that may be necessary to finalize the bonding process.
How Much Does a Massachusetts Auto Dealer Bond Cost?
Although the obligee of a Massachusetts auto dealer bond varies depending on where the business is located, the amount of the bond required is set by the state. All licensed auto dealers must have a bond of no less than $25,000 to comply with current regulations.
The total bond amount is not the price an auto dealer pays for their bond. Instead, the surety company providing the bond calculates the price of the bond—the bond premium—as a percentage of the total bond amount.
The bond premium ranges from 1 to 10 percent for most auto dealers in Massachusetts. Because claims are initially covered by the surety company and then repaid by the auto dealer, a bond is a form of credit.
To determine the bond premium, the surety company must evaluate the financial track record and credit history of the auto dealer applying for a bond.
Can I Get a Massachusetts Auto Dealer Bond with Bad Credit?
If an auto dealer has had trouble with finances in the past, such as late payments, court judgments, or liens, it is still possible to obtain an auto dealer bond. However, the bond premium will be a higher percentage than it would be for someone who has a clean financial history.
How Do I Renew My Massachusetts Auto Dealer Bond?
A Massachusetts auto dealer bond must be renewed at the same time an auto dealer license renews. You will receive periodic renewal reminders for both your auto dealer license and your auto dealer bond. Renewing your bond is important so that you avoid working with an invalid bond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Costs are a percentage of the auto dealer bond amount that's required of you, which is based on your personal credit. Use our bond pricing tool to get a quick ballpark estimate.
Yes. You can get you approved for a bond regardless of your credit situation. However, the price will increase. You can apply to get an instant approval. As the largest writer of surety bonds in the U.S., we have access to high risk markets that many other agencies do not.
It only takes minutes, as we can approve you for your bond instantly online. You can get a no obligation quote on our website at any time.
No. An auto dealer bond does not protect you, it protects the public. However, you can protect yourself or your customers by getting fidelity bonds.
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