What is a Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bond?
These license and permit surety bonds ensure that when selling permits and collecting fees, the volunteer shall perform such services without committing any fraudulent or dishonest acts resulting in the loss of fees collected. For purposes of this bond, a “fraudulent or dishonest act” of the principal shall mean an act which is punishable under the criminal code in the jurisdiction within which the act occurred, for which the principal is tried and convicted by a court of proper jurisdiction. In the event that a volunteer causes a loss, a claim can be filed against the surety bond for reimbursement.
Who needs a Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bond?
Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bonds are required for individuals, couples, families, students or organized groups who are interested in volunteering at national parks across the United States. Volunteer work varies by park, but may include: answering visitor questions, presenting living history demonstrations, building fences, painting buildings, giving guided nature walks, assisting in preservation of museum artifacts, maintaining trails and designing computer programs or park websites. Interested parties must apply with the National Park Service and a list of current open positions can be found on their website.
Which states require Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bonds?
Pacific Surety proudly offers Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bonds in all 50 states. Please contact us with any questions, and our knowledgeable underwriters can assist you.
What is the bond amount for Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bonds?
Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bonds are usually $5,000 but will vary depending on the location and work being performed. Bond amounts and requirements will fluctuate. Please contact us with specific questions, and our knowledgeable underwriting staff will assist you.
How much does a Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bond cost?
Pricing for Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bonds will vary, and your premium will be based on the following factors:
- State the bond is required in
- Amount of the bond
- Term length of the bond
- Personal credit for all owners with at least a 10% ownership stake in the business
Individuals with good credit can expect to pay between 1%-5% of the bond amount. Qualified applicants could pay as little as $100 annually for a $5,000 Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bond. To find out how much your bond is going to cost, please complete our online application for your free, no obligation price quote.
Can I get a Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bond with bad credit?
Pacific Surety offers a wide range of approvals, regardless of credit, for Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bonds. With our strong surety relationships, we have the ability to approve 99% of applicants, regardless of how bad their credit is. Our knowledgeable underwriting staff will work with you to ensure you receive the lowest possible pricing for your bond. Applicants with substandard credit can expect to pay 5%-10% of the bond amount in premium. To see what rate you will qualify for, please complete our online application for your free, no obligation price quote.
How do I purchase a Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bond?
The first step is to complete our quick online application for your free, no obligation bond quote. Submission takes only five minutes, and our underwriting staff will be in contact with you within a couple of hours with pricing. If you prefer to speak with our knowledgeable staff, please call 1-866-722-7873 and one of our Underwriters will assist you in applying for your bond.
After you receive approval, you must sign an indemnity agreement with the surety and provide payment for your bond premium. In most cases, we can issue bonds the same day we receive your signed documents and payment.
Who does a Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bond benefit?
Unlike insurance, which protects you, a Volunteer-In-Parks (VIP) Surety Bonds benefit the National Park Services. If the principal’s (volunteer) actions cause any damage, a claim can be filed with the surety company for relief. If the claim is valid, the surety will pay up to the penal sum of the bond to resolve the claim. You are then required to reimburse the surety for all monies paid out, including any attorney fees incurred by the surety in the defense of the claim.