If you need to get a bail bond (from a provider such as Absolute Bail Bonds), then you are probably in a hurry, and for good reason. The sooner you get back home means that sooner you can go back to work and spend time with your family. However, it is important that you take the time to check several key factors before making any commitments. 

Premiums

The first thing that you will want to look at is the premium, which is the amount of money that you will actually be paying the bail bondsman. Each law has different requirements on the minimum and maximum amounts, but the number generally hovers around 10%. Before getting a bond, make sure that the amount falls within the legal limits of the state. If it doesn't, then that bondsman might be operating illegally.

You'll want to ask any potential bondsmen to show you a detailed breakdown of the cost and fees before you sign the dotted line. Some businesses may advertise one (very low) number, but stack on several fees to increase the price above the rest of the local competition. By asking to take a look at the final numbers yourself, you can effectively compare all the businesses on your short list.

Collateral

In order to secure a bail bond, you might not have enough cash on hand or in the bank to cover the premium. In such a case, many bail bondsman will allow other forms of collateral, such as cars. In these cases, you will turn over your collateral to the bondsman for an agreed upon period of time. At the end of that period, you will pay the bondsmen the original premium plus interest and you will get your collateral back. If you do not show up to court or if you are unable to pay the bond premium, then you could either be faced with increasing late fees or the loss of your collateral.

Comparing Collateral and Cash

While it might seem like a potentially good idea to just let the bondsman have your collateral instead of paying your fees, you should remember that your collateral is likely worth a lot more than the amount that you owe. If you really need money, then you could resort to using a pawnshop or some similar service. Your best option, however, is likely to be to defer payment of your debt until you have the necessary money. This will cost you additional interest, but it will likely be the least costly of your options. 

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