Bail Bond FAQ
Straight answers to the questions families ask us most.
Can you help right now, at night or on a weekend?
Yes. We answer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays. Call or text (980) 236-1400 and a licensed agent will start right away.
What does a bail bondsman do?
A bail bondsman, or bail bond agent, posts bail on behalf of a defendant so they can be released from jail while their case moves forward. The bondsman charges a nonrefundable premium (typically 10–15% of the total bail amount in North Carolina) and guarantees the full bail amount to the court. If the defendant appears at all court dates, the bond is discharged. If the defendant fails to appear, the bail bond company is responsible for the full bail amount.
How does the bail bond premium work?
The premium is the fee you pay the bail bond company for its service. In North Carolina, this is typically 10–15% of the total bail amount (15% is the most the law allows). This fee is nonrefundable, regardless of the outcome of the case. For example, if bail is set at $10,000, the premium would be $1,000 to $1,500. Bust Out Bail Bonds offers flexible payment plans, including very low down payments and interest-free installments, to make this more affordable.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. Bust Out Bail Bonds offers very low down payments, low bi-weekly installments and interest-free payment plans. We also provide 24-hour live payment assistance and automatic draft for your convenience. We understand that bail can be an unexpected expense, and we do everything we can to work with your budget.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Apple Pay, Cash App and Zelle. Ask about our low down payments and interest-free payment plans when you call.
What happens if I can’t complete my payments?
If you’re unable to complete your payment plan, contact us right away. We work with our clients to find solutions whenever possible. However, failure to pay can result in the bond being surrendered, which means the defendant may be returned to custody. We strongly encourage you to stay in touch with us so we can help you stay on track.
Is collateral required for a bail bond?
Collateral requirements vary depending on the bail amount and the circumstances of the case. In some cases, no collateral is needed beyond the premium payment. For larger bonds, collateral such as property, vehicles or other assets may be required to secure the bond. Our agents will explain all requirements clearly before you sign, so there are no surprises.
What do co-signers need to know?
A co-signer (also called an indemnitor) takes on significant responsibility when signing for a bail bond. The co-signer guarantees that the defendant will appear at all court dates and is financially responsible if the defendant fails to appear. Co-signers should understand they may be liable for the full bail amount plus any recovery costs if the defendant skips court. We recommend co-signers keep in regular contact with the defendant and tell us right away if they believe the defendant may not follow the court’s requirements.
How quickly can someone be released after bail is posted?
Release times vary by facility. In most cases, once the bail bond is posted, the defendant can be released within a few hours. Some larger facilities may take longer due to processing volumes. We work as quickly as possible to move the process along and keep you informed every step of the way. The sooner you call, the sooner we can post the bond.
Do I always need a bail bondsman?
No. With a written promise to appear or an unsecured bond, nothing is paid up front, so you don’t need a bondsman. A bondsman is needed for a secured bond when you can’t, or don’t want to, pay the full amount in cash. If you’re not sure what kind of bond it is, call us and we’ll tell you honestly.
Don’t see your question? Call or text us any time. There’s no charge to ask.
We answer 24 hours a day.
Nights, weekends and holidays. The sooner you call, the sooner we can start.
