Performance Bond

A performance bond is a surety bond guaranteeing that a contractor will complete the work according to contract terms. If the contractor fails, the surety company pays the government up to the bond amount.

How It Works

Performance bonds are typically required on construction contracts over $150,000. The bond amount is usually 100% of the contract value. Contractors must obtain bonds from surety companies, which evaluate the contractor's financial strength, experience, and capacity. Bonding capacity is a real constraint for growing contractors — work with a surety bond agent to build your bonding capacity over time. The SBA's Surety Bond Guarantee Program helps small businesses obtain bonds.

Example

A small construction firm wins a $500,000 government building renovation contract. They must provide a $500,000 performance bond before work begins. Their surety agent evaluates their financials, past projects, and capacity before issuing the bond.

Related Terms

Find Government Contracts Now

Search federal, state & local bids across 1,400+ procurement portals.

Search Contracts Free →

View All Glossary Terms → · How to Find Government Contracts (Complete Guide) →

Get Government Contract Alerts

New opportunities from 1,400+ portals delivered to your inbox. Free.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.