Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

Yes, you can make payments on a bond in many cases, especially when working with a bail bondsman. Most bail bond companies offer payment plans to help defendants and their families afford the bond premium, which is usually around 10% of the total bail amount. These plans allow you to pay the fee in installments instead of one large payment upfront, but the defendant will not be released until an agreement is in place and any required down payment is made.

How Bond Payment Plans Work

When bail is set at an amount that’s difficult to pay all at once, a bail bondsman can post the bond on your behalf for a nonrefundable fee. To make it more manageable, many bondsmen offer installment options that spread out the cost over time. The bond is still posted immediately after the down payment, allowing the defendant to get out of jail while the remaining balance is paid off.

• Down payment – Typically 5% or more of the total bail amount.
• Installments – Remaining balance divided into weekly or monthly payments.
• Agreement – Requires signing a payment contract with specific due dates.
• Collateral – May be required to secure the bond, such as property or a vehicle title.

Example of a Bond Payment Plan

Suppose bail is set at $20,000. The standard 10% bond fee would be $2,000. If you can’t pay all $2,000 upfront, the bondsman might accept $500 as a down payment and let you pay the rest in scheduled installments until the full amount is covered.

• Bail amount – $20,000.
• Total bond fee – $2,000 (10%).
• Down payment – $500.
• Remaining balance – $1,500 paid over several weeks or months.

Requirements for Payment Plans

Not everyone automatically qualifies for a bond payment plan. Bondsmen evaluate each applicant based on credit, income, and risk level to ensure they can keep up with the payments. A co-signer is often required for additional financial responsibility.

• Proof of employment or steady income.
• Valid identification and contact information.
• Credit or background check in some cases.
• Reliable co-signer willing to share financial responsibility.

What Happens If You Miss Payments

Failing to make scheduled payments can have serious consequences. The bondsman can take legal action or seize collateral to recover what’s owed. In extreme cases, the defendant’s bond may be revoked, leading to re-arrest.

• Late fees or interest may be added to the balance.
• Collateral (like cars or property) may be claimed by the bondsman.
• The defendant may be returned to jail if payments stop.
• Future bond eligibility may be affected.

Advantages of Making Bond Payments

Payment plans make posting bond possible for families who can’t afford the full amount upfront. This ensures defendants can return to work, care for their families, and prepare for their cases while meeting financial obligations over time.

• Faster release without paying the full amount upfront.
• Flexible repayment options tailored to your income.
• Ability to avoid additional jail time during case processing.

You can make payments on a bond through a bail bondsman using an installment plan. A down payment is usually required before release, and the remaining balance is paid over time. Staying current with payments is essential to avoid penalties or loss of collateral.