Quick Answer

Yes! Many people qualify for a bond payment plan. With a surety bond through a bonding company, you pay a premium (industry-standard is often around 10% of the bond amount, but terms can vary) and may be able to divide that premium into installments.
Approval depends on underwriting factors like income, employment, references, criminal history, and overall risk. The premium is a service fee and
is generally not refundable.

How Bond Payments Work (Surety vs. Cash)

Surety Bond (through Wichita Bonding Company)

With a surety bond, Wichita Bonding Company guarantees the full bail amount to the court. You pay a premium (and may be required to provide collateral or a cosigner).
Because the full bail isn’t deposited with the court, the premium isn’t returned when the case ends, it compensates the bonding company for the guarantee.
Many clients arrange a 5% down payment plus a short-term payment schedule for the remaining premium, if approved.

Cash Bail (posted directly to the court or jail)

Cash bail means someone pays the entire bail amount to the clerk or jail. The court doesn’t offer “payment plans” for cash bail itself. If the defendant complies with
appearances and the case concludes, cash may be applied to fines/fees/restitution first; any remainder may be refunded to the payer of record after accounting.
For case status and dockets, visit the 18th Judicial District Court (DC18) or
City of Wichita for municipal matters.

Typical Requirements for a Payment Plan

• Down payment  -An initial portion of the premium is usually due at signing.
• Cosigner(s) – A responsible adult with stable income and good contact information may be required.
• Proof of ability to pay – Recent pay stubs, employment details, or other income verification.
• Valid ID & references – Government-issued ID and reliable references help underwriting assess risk.
• Collateral (case-dependent) – Vehicles, real property, or other assets may be used if necessary.
• Written agreement: -Installment terms, due dates, and consequences for late/non-payment are documented.

What Affects Eligibility?

• Charge severity & bond amount – Higher risk or higher bond amounts may require more documentation or collateral.
• Prior failures to appear: -Missed court in the past can impact approval.
• Employment & housing stability – Steady income and residence history help.
• Cosigner strength – Well-qualified cosigners improve approval odds.
• Documentation quality – Clear, complete paperwork speeds decisions.

Want to learn more about bail industry education and standards in Kansas? Explore the
Kansas Bail Agents Association.

Installments, Missed Payments & Refunds

Installments are typically set at weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly intervals, and automatic payments are often available. If a payment is missed,
late fees may apply, and the account can move to collections. Persistent non-payment can lead to revocation of the bond in severe cases,
so always communicate with your agent if something changes.

Remember, a surety premium is non-refundable. If collateral was pledged, it’s usually released when the case concludes without forfeiture, and your
financial obligations are satisfied.

Example Scenarios (For Illustration Only)

• Moderate bond amount, employed defendant – A cosigner and proof of income lead to approval with a down payment and bi-weekly installments over 4–8 weeks.
• Higher bond amount, limited credit – Two cosigners plus vehicle collateral secure approval; payments are set weekly for tighter risk control.
• First-time offense, strong cosigner – Lower down payment approved; short schedule ends before the first major court setting.

Actual terms vary by case. Underwriting, charge type, and risk determine approval.

Local Resources & Official Links

• Sedgwick County Inmate Search – confirm custody and release status.
• DC18 Records & Court Schedule – docket details for district-court cases.
• City of Wichita – municipal court information and services.
• Kansas Bail Agents Association – Kansas-specific bail education & resources.

Have questions about your eligibility? Contact us, our agents will walk you through options.

FAQ: Making Payments on a Bond

How much is the down payment?

Down payments vary by case, bond amount, and underwriting. Bring proof of income and cosigner information so we can give you specific options.

Do you approve payment plans with bad credit?

Credit is only one factor. Steady income, strong cosigners, and complete documentation can offset credit challenges.

Can I set up automatic payments?

Yes, most clients prefer autopay to avoid late fees. Ask your agent during paperwork. This can still vary depending on the bail bonds business in Wichita that you use. 

What happens if I miss a payment?

Contact us immediately. Late fees may apply. Repeated non-payment can lead to collections or bond revocation in serious situations.

Is the premium refundable after the case ends?

No. The premium is a non-refundable service fee for the surety bond. Collateral, if any, is typically returned after the case concludes without forfeiture.