Transient Merchant, Solicitor and Peddler Bonds

What Are Transient Merchant Bonds? 

Surety bonds for solicitors, transient vendors and peddlers protect the state and the public from unlawful business practices. This type of license and permit bond allows for financial recourse if a transient merchant doesn’t pay taxes or fees, breaks license regulations, or causes other damages.

These bonds go by various names, including the following:

• Transient vendor bonds
• Peddler bonds
• Itinerant vendor bonds
• Mobile food vendor bonds
• Solicitor bonds
• Canvasser bonds

How Much Do Transient Merchant Bonds Cost?

Most transient merchant, solicitor or peddler bonds cost $100 and are available for instant online purchase. With SuretyBonds.com, you can save 25% per year on most transient business bonds by selecting a multi-year term.

Bond amounts and costs may vary based on the location. Select your state below to find the bond you need.

Who Needs a Transient Merchant Bond? 

Many cities require transient merchant bonds to protect the public from sellers who breach their license or permit conditions. A transient business is defined as an individual or company temporarily selling goods or services and occupying a certain lot, building, or structure for less than six months per year. 

Temporary or mobile businesses such as food trucks, festival vendors, solicitors and more must file these bonds with the state, city or county they are operating in. Check with the local licensing authority to determine if you need a bond in a certain area. 

How Do Transient Merchant Bonds Work? 

A transient merchant, peddler or solicitor bond bind three parties in a legal contract: 

• Principal: The merchant that purchases the bond and files it with the obligee
• Obligee: The entity requiring the merchant to be bonded 
• Surety: The company that issues the bond to the principal 

If a principal’s actions cause financial harm, the government authority or members of the public can file a complaint with the local licensing authority. The surety will pay out valid claims then seek reimbursement from the principal. 

How to Get a Transient Merchant Bond

You can get most transient merchant bonds instantly online on SuretyBonds.com. It only takes three steps: 

1. Select the bond you need
2. Checkout online
3. Receive your official bond instantly via email

Or, if your obligee requires the original bond document, we’ll mail your form. 

Some transient vendor bonds require an application review to determine pricing. If so, fill out our quick online form to get your free quote. 

Can I Get a Transient Merchant Bond With Bad Credit? 

Yes, almost all transient merchant bonds are available for all applicants with no credit check. Apply online today or learn more about our bad credit bonding program.