Key Facts About the Florida Professional Solicitor ($50,000) Bond

The Florida Professional Solicitor ($50,000) Bond is a licensing requirement for professional solicitors registering with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Consumer Services. This surety bond helps protect charitable organizations, donors, and the public by guaranteeing that professional solicitors comply with Florida laws governing charitable fundraising. If a solicitor violates applicable regulations or engages in dishonest practices, an eligible claim may be filed against the bond to compensate affected parties.

Obtaining the bond is a necessary step before legally conducting fundraising activities as a professional solicitor in Florida. While the bond amount is $50,000, applicants generally pay only a small percentage of that amount as their premium, depending on factors such as credit history and financial qualifications. Maintaining an active bond helps demonstrate professionalism, regulatory compliance, and commitment to ethical fundraising practices.

Gary Swiftbonds is a nationally recognized expert in surety bonds, bid bonds, and performance bonds.

Updated June 2026

FL – Professional Solicitor ($50,000) Bond - Close up solicitor lawyer is holding pen, ready signing contract with client.

Get an Instant Quote on FL – Professional Solicitor ($50,000) Bond Now.

instant surety bond quote button

What is a Professional Solicitor Bond?

Professional solicitors are required to have a professional solicitor bond in over 15 states before they can raise funds for commercial or charitable purposes. This includes the management of any money that has been donated, as well as advertising their product with an altruistic motive.

Do you need a professional solicitor bond?

Swiftbonds is an expert in providing Professional Solicitor Bonds for professionals who work as solicitors or agents. We provide bonds that cover all 50 states and D.C., so no matter where your business takes you, we’ve got your back!

Our bonds are easy to get and can be processed within 24 hours of application approval! Get started today by filling out our quick online form here. You will receive a response from one of our representatives within minutes after submitting the form.

Click here to get started!

Cost of Professional Solicitor Bond?

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Consumer Services, requires the $50,000 Professional Solicitor Surety Bond for any entity looking to register as a professional solicitor.

What is the purpose of a Florida Professional Solicitor Bond?

Florida professional solicitors are required by law to obtain a bond before conducting business. This is for the protection of both the state and its citizens, as any unethical or irresponsible actions can be countered with claims against their bonds. Should they settle these claims, then it’s up to them (and only them) to pay back surety companies in losses incurred from those past issues–so make your Florida solicitor do right!

Do you need a solicitation license in Florida?

If not, an exemption applies, then your organization will be legally obligated by this department before doing any type of fundraising activity within the state limits. Before starting anything, though, make sure everything goes smoothly with registering first!

Does Florida require charitable solicitation registration?

All charities soliciting within the state of Florida (excluding religious, educational, political, and governmental agencies) are required to register and file financial information with the FDACS.

What are professional fundraisers?

A professional fundraiser is someone who gets paid for their fundraising expertise. Professional solicitors, consultants, and retained gift officers are all considered professionals in this field because they charge clients to use their skills when raising money.

How much does it cost to hire a professional fundraiser? 

Some consultants might charge $500, but the most sought-after and experienced fundraising consultants will be in the neighborhood of $1,000 per day. There are some who can go as high as 1,250 or even more.

 

Licensed professional solicitor conducting charitable fundraising outreach in a Florida neighborhood backed by the required Florida Professional Solicitor $50,000 Bond.

 

What does solicit contributions mean?

Some organizations solicit donations through online methods, such as a “Donate Now” button on their website. Organizations can also host fundraising events to raise money and mail appeal letters for support.

How do you start a nonprofit with no money?

Create your core values and research the costs. Combine this information to create an accurate budget, then begin fundraising for startup costs. Incorporate your new nonprofit to file for tax-exemption status – all of which will allow you to get started without any cash!

How many board members are required for a nonprofit in Florida?

Florida requires a minimum of three board members upon formation, but the number fluctuates depending on how much they can raise to keep up with their expenses.

What is a Florida not-for-profit corporation?

A Florida not-for-profit corporation is a business that does everything to help the community. The income or profits it earns are used solely on things like medical research, building homes for those in need, and many others.

Can I run a charity without registering?

A question that many charities have is whether they must be registered with the Charity Commission. Following very recent changes in tax law, it’s now essential for any unregistered charities to do so immediately if they are required by law to be registered.

Are charities required to be registered?

Most charities are registered with the Charity Commission, but some choose not to. You must check whether a charity has filed for registration before donating because you will only be eligible for tax relief if it has been granted nonprofit status.

How much do professional fundraisers make?

If you’re wondering, we have the answer. A professional fundraiser made $57,970 in 2019. But that’s not all: 25% of them earned more than $76,620, and 75% had an income under 43K!

What do you call someone who asks for donations?

A person who gives money or gifts to charities, or helps needy people in other ways, is called a philanthropist. Famous examples include Andrew Carnegie and Bill & Melinda Gates. Have an FL – Pawnbroking ($10,000) Bond.

Professional Solicitor Bond - Afro american solicitor pointing pointing at contract showing client to sign.

What is considered a professional fundraiser?

Professional fundraisers are the ones who specialize in recruiting quality donors for charities. They engage with them and manage their relationships, often on a long-term basis, to ensure they have consistent support over time.

What is a paid solicitor?

A paid solicitor is a person who performs services for financial compensation. A compensated person can solicit contributions by going door-to-door, standing on the street corner begging, or speaking at church about their need for money.

What is the point of a fundraiser?

Fundraisers are events or campaigns where the primary goal is to raise money for a cause, charity, or nonprofit organization. And while some people might think that they’re just a way to get free food and drinks (or have their social needs met), fundraisers can actually help those in need much more than you’d imagine!

Are there professional fundraisers?

You might think that professional fundraisers are only the people in your neighborhood who knock on doors and ask for donations, but many fundraising consultants work from their offices. Telemarketers solicit requests over a phone line, and mailers send printed materials to potential donors’ homes or offices.

How are professional fundraisers paid?

A professional fundraiser is paid on a fee-for-service basis. They are not compensated for the number of donors they bring to your organization, but for how much money those donations raise after fees and expenses have been accounted for.

What is a good profit margin for a fundraiser?

Achieving a profit margin of 30-50% is one way to ensure that you’re making as much money for your cause as possible. Additionally, nonprofits should consider using an online fundraising software (like Fundly!) to help increase donations and keep track of donor information!

How much should I pay for a fundraiser?

This is a question that has many different answers and guidelines. The following ranges can be found from the Association of Fundraising Professionals: $0.05 to $0.10 per dollar raised, as well as $0.20 for every dollar you raise! Read a Florida Public Adjuster ($50,000) Bond.

What would you say is the key to successful fundraising?

The secret lies in understanding that donors are not just giving money; they’re investing it. They want their donations to go towards a worthwhile cause and be as effective, efficient, and sustainable as possible. If fundraisers can answer these questions for them, then we will have long-lasting relationships with our donor base!

Can you make money fundraising?

Many non-profit organizations can make money through fundraising events and product sales, but charities have an edge because of the volunteers they utilize. Nonprofits depend on people who work for free in order to generate revenue; these hardworking individuals help charity groups save a lot more than if there were paid employees handling all the tasks.

 

Professional solicitor standing in a Florida residential community with fundraising materials while complying with Florida Professional Solicitor Bond regulations.

 

What degree do fundraisers need?

Many fundraisers have degrees in public relations, journalism, communications, or English. Employers tend to prefer candidates with such majors for a variety of reasons, including the ability to communicate well and organizational skills learned during study.

How do you get involved in fundraising?

People get involved in fundraising by inviting friends to non-ask events, making thank-you calls, and telling stories. They also spread the word online with personalized communications that make it easier for supporters to give time or money as well as learn more about their favorite nonprofits.

Are fundraisers legal?

When it comes to fundraising, you have a lot of options. Whether or not your charity is legal in the state in which you live depends on if they are registered with that particular state and its regulations. See an FL – Pari-Mutuel Wagering ($50,000) Bond.

What percentage do fundraisers earn?

Typically, fundraising consultants charge a service commission based on a percentage of the total amount raised. This rate ranges from just 10% to as high as 50%.

What percentage of fundraising goes to charity?

The high percentage of donations going to administrative costs is worrisome, but look for nonprofits that spend 75% on programs. The rest goes toward fundraising and administration- a typical charity spends 15%.

Are you allowed to ask for donations?

It is legal to ask for money in nearly every circumstance, but there are some exceptions. You can solicit funds pretty much any way you like – the law says so! But it’s not always a good idea or well-mannered to do so; that decision is up to each of us individually.

Can you accept donations without being a nonprofit?

Crowdfunding is the easiest way to bring in monetary donations. You can easily start your own campaign on sites like GoFundMe or Kickstarter, and don’t have to be registered as a 501(c)(3).

What is the difference between fundraising and donations?

Fundraising is the process of raising money by requesting donations from individuals and businesses. Donation, on the other hand, is a voluntary gift or contribution for a specific cause. Find a Palm Beach County, FL – Roadside Vendor ($2,000) Bond.

How do I hire a professional fundraiser?

To find the perfect match, carefully consider your nonprofit’s culture and do thorough research on fundraising software so that there are no surprises later down the line! Once you’ve narrowed it down to two or three companies, reach out to them with specific questions about their services through phone calls or emails.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is required to obtain a Florida Professional Solicitor Bond?

Any individual or business that acts as a professional solicitor for charitable organizations and is required to register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services must obtain the required $50,000 surety bond before conducting fundraising activities.

How much does a Florida Professional Solicitor Bond cost?

The premium is only a percentage of the $50,000 bond amount. Most applicants pay an annual premium based on their credit score, financial history, and underwriting qualifications rather than the full bond amount.

What does the Professional Solicitor Bond protect?

The bond protects the State of Florida, charitable organizations, and the public from financial harm resulting from a professional solicitor’s fraud, dishonesty, or failure to comply with Florida charitable solicitation laws.

Florida neighborhood illustrating communities where licensed professionals operate under the Florida Professional Solicitor $50,000 Bond requirements.

Does the bond protect the professional solicitor?

No. The bond protects the public—not the solicitor. If the surety company pays a valid claim, the bonded solicitor is responsible for reimbursing the surety for the amount paid.

How long must the Professional Solicitor Bond remain active?

The bond should remain active for as long as the professional solicitor maintains registration and conducts fundraising activities in Florida. Allowing the bond to lapse may affect registration status and the ability to legally operate.

 

Build Trust While Staying Compliant in Florida

Florida Professional Solicitor Bond representative meeting with residents in a Florida neighborhood while discussing charitable solicitation compliance and licensing requirements.The Florida Professional Solicitor ($50,000) Bond is more than a licensing requirement—it demonstrates your commitment to ethical fundraising, legal compliance, and protecting the interests of donors and charitable organizations. Maintaining this bond helps build credibility while satisfying the registration requirements established by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Whether you’re registering as a new professional solicitor or renewing your existing registration, securing your bond through a trusted surety provider like Swiftbonds can help streamline the licensing process. With competitive rates, fast approvals, and expert support, you can focus on conducting successful fundraising campaigns while remaining fully compliant with Florida regulations.