The credit score of a firm’s principal(s) is a key factor in the bonding submission and approval process as it is considered to represent the creditworthiness of an individual and his/her likeliness to pay off debt. A high credit score is considered to reflect stability and good financial management whereas a low credit score may indicate financial issues and often raise “red flags” for the surety company.

On a scale of 300 to 850 (850 being the highest possible score), surety companies usually seek a credit score of 650 or higher as a good indicator of bondability. However, a surety will give consideration to a submission (and may approve bonding) with a credit score of less than 650 if it does not include tax liens, bankruptcies and/or other serious judgments.