Finding the right type of security for your venture can be stressful. You want to make sure that you are covered in different scenarios. Perhaps you have been researching different types of bonds and insurance policies.
Many people become confused while researching the benefits of an insurance bond vs. insurance policies. The confusion/misunderstanding causes people to purchase the wrong product for their situation. While both bonds and insurance policies provide protection, there are clear differences in the type of protection they offer. Here’s an overview to help you make the right decision.
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Contracts
An insurance policy is a contract between two parties, i.e., the insurer and the insured. Insurance policies don’t require a third party to issue them. However, bonds are contracts between the Obligee, Principle, and Guarantor. The Obligee is the entity that mandates the bond. The Principle ensures that the bond meets the requirements of the Obligee. The Guarantor is the company that issues the bond. Bonds are considered a form of credit. Bonds are only issued if the Obligee requests them.
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Underwriting Process
Insurance policy underwriting is based on the insured meeting a risk level, as well as the projected exposure over the policy duration. The risk on your policy is spread through a group of others with similar risk levels. Insurers understand that some insurance policies will accumulate losses. Bonds are written on the likelihood of the Principle covering the Obligee if a claim arises. If you are applying for a large bond, you may be required to produce audited financial statements that prove you have the ability to cover the Obligee.
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Protection
Insurance policies protect you in the event of a covered loss. Bonds are a form of credit that protects the Obligee through covering the Principal payment. If the Guarantor covers a claim, they will expect you to reimburse them. The Surety acts as an intermediary to help make sure that the injured party receives the necessary compensation.
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Premium
Both insurance policies and bonds require you to pay premiums. Your insurance premiums help cover potential issues, while your bond premiums help ensure that you will fulfill your obligations. You’ll likely be asked to pay substantially higher premiums if you have poor credit.
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Losses
One of the biggest differences between insurance bonds vs. insurance policies is covered losses. Insurers recognize that they will cover some losses in the future. Insurers project future losses and use the data to assign an insurance rate to your policy. They also use your personal information to establish the cost of covering potential losses. The Guarantor does not expect future losses when they issue the bond. That’s why the application process is generally seen as tougher compared to insurance policies. Bonds are only issued to qualified entities. You have to show the Guarantor and the Obligee that you are capable of covering any bond losses.
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Claims Process
The insurance company pays insurance policy claims. Generally, you are not required to repay the reimbursement amount. Bonds are a form of credit, so you are required to repay the claims amount in the future.
READ MORE: GETTING BONDED AND INSURED: DO YOU REQUIRE A BOND INSURANCE COVERAGE?
Consult With 01 Insurance
Learning about the key differences between insurance bonds and insurance policies can help alleviate stress while figuring out which option is best for your situation. Our insurance experts at 01 Insurance can help you determine which insurance policy or bond aligns with your needs.
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