It is required when a court appoints a guardian for a minor child’s estate or finances, unless the court waives the bond.

The bond amount is set by the court and is usually based on the value of assets or funds the guardian will manage for the child.

The cost is typically a small annual percentage of the bond amount. For minor guardianship bonds, most surety companies require the premium to be paid in advance, often covering the period until the child reaches age 18 or, in some cases, through high school graduation, depending on the court and bonding company.

Our agency specializes exclusively in probate bonds and works with multiple surety companies. Each application is reviewed to identify the lowest available rate based on underwriting requirements, and written quotes from other carriers are typically price matched when possible.

The guardian typically pays the premium upfront and may be reimbursed from the child’s assets if allowed by the court.

The bond generally remains in effect until the guardianship ends, the child reaches adulthood, or the court releases the guardian. For minor guardianships, courts typically require continuous coverage for the entire duration of the guardianship, which may extend until the child turns 18 or, in some cases, through high school graduation.

Only the first year’s premium is fully earned and non-refundable. If the court discharges the bond before the end of the prepaid term, a prorated refund is typically issued for any unused time beyond the first year.

Many minor guardianship bonds can be issued the same day once required information is received, though some cases require additional review.

If the guardian causes financial harm through misconduct or mismanagement, a claim may be made against the bond to help protect the child’s assets.

No. Minor guardianship bonds apply to children, adult guardianship bonds apply to incapacitated adults, and conservator bonds typically apply only to financial or property management.

Commonly required information includes guardian details, court information, asset values, and guardianship case details.