Louisiana MVD bond

May 31, 2016, Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards signed House Bill 271 in regards to Louisiana motor vehicle dealers.  The changes  include a increase of the $20,000 and $35,000 bond to $50,000 and the removal of the differentiation in number of vehicles sold. The new required amount will take effect on August 1, 2016.




What does the new bond amount mean for you?

The current $20,000 & $35,000 bond requirement is effective until July 31, 2016.  On or after August 1, 2016, any new dealers should purchase the bond in the new amount of $50,000.  If you are already bonded, your current bond amount will be valid until December 31, 2016 but at that time you will need to have an increase rider in place.

Dealers who are needing to renew may find that the renewal rate is higher than previous years even if there has been no change to their credit.  It is important to remember that premiums are a percentage of the total bond amount.



Let Ashton help with your Louisiana MVD bond!

With one simple application, Ashton Agency will shop around for the best rate possible.  Our in-house underwriters are able to look at many personal variables on your application and can offer some of the most competitive rates! We also have programs for challenged credit if you are needing a used car dealer bond.

Ashton Agency offers an experienced insurance department that can help with your garage liability insurance.  We are your one-stop shop for all of your auto dealer needs!

Start saving time and money immediately!  Call us today at (800) 452-2663 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español). 

Or visit online:

Website:  https://ashtonagency.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashtonagency

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AshtonAgency

Ohio contractor license information.

Are you considering starting your own contractor's business in Ohio?  It can be an exciting but overwhelming venture.  Surety bonds are a requirement in some states, cities, and counties to be compliant with federal, state and local laws in many industries.  If a business is required to have a bond, you will not be able to get a license without one.

Ohio, unlike many other states does not require general contractors to get a state license. However, a license is required for some specialty contractors. Namely:

• Electrical contractors
• HVAC contractors
• Hydronics contractors
• Plumbing contractors
• Refrigeration contractors

If you are a general contractor based in Ohio, then you will have to check the requirements of the city and county in which you want to operate.  The usual process includes completing an application, posting a contractor license bond and obtaining liability insurance.

While the OCILB does not require licensed specialty contractors to obtain a bond, a bond might be required for general/specialty contractors in certain cities/counties.  If you do need to post a contractor bond, you will need to check the amount with the county or city administration requiring it.  Contractor license bonds in Ohio typically range from $3000.00 to $25,000.00.  Ashton Agency has a flat rate program for Ohio contractor bonds. 

Being a licensed and bonded business shows credibility to the public that will be requiring your services.  Ashton Agency has been helping business owners with their specialty bonds since 1968.  What does that mean for you?  It means that Ashton Agency is able to offer some of the lowest flat rate, no credit check prices for your Ohio contractor bonds.

Start saving time and money immediately! 

Call us today at (800) 451-4854 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español).

You can also visit us online at:

Ohio Bond Application

http://ashtonagency.com

https://www.facebook.com/ashtonagency

https://twitter.com/AshtonAgency

Iowa Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond Increase

This past April, Iowa Governor Terry Branstad signed Senate File 2228 in regards to both new and wholesale Iowa motor vehicle dealers.  One of the big changes to new and wholesale dealers is a significant increase in the bond amount.  The new required amount will take effect on July 1, 2016 for new applications.  Dealer licenses issued prior to July 1, 2016 with a $50,000 bond in effect will remain valid until December 31, 2016, but will not be renewed until the bond has been increased to $75,000.  The State of Iowa DOT states they will accept a bond increase rider from your insurance agent or an Iowa licensed bonding company.



What does the new bond amount mean for you?

The current $50,000 bond requirement is effective until June 30, 2016.  On or after July 1, 2016, any new dealers should purchase the bond in the new amount of $75,000.  If you are already bonded, your current bond amount will be valid until December 31, 2016 but at that time you will need to have an increase rider in place.

Dealers who are needing to renew may find that the renewal rate is higher than previous years even if there has been no change to their credit.  It is important to remember that premiums are a percentage of the total bond amount.



Let Ashton help with your Iowa MVD bond!

With one simple application, Ashton Agency will shop around for the best rate possible.  Our in-house underwriters are able to look at many personal variables on your application and can offer some of the most competitive rates! We also have programs for challenged credit if you are needing a used car dealer bond.

Ashton Agency offers an experienced insurance department that can help with your garage liability insurance.  We are your one-stop shop for all of your auto dealer needs!

Start saving time and money immediately!  Call us today at (800) 452-2663 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español). 

Or visit online:

Website:  https://ashtonagency.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashtonagency

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AshtonAgency

California Yacht Broker

Being a yacht broker can be a very rewarding, lucrative profession. For those who prefer a marine lifestyle, rather than sitting in an office, this may be the career for you! Let’s get to the basic steps of becoming a successful yacht broker.

Getting Licensed

Depending on the state, you may be required to obtain a yacht broker’s license, which may require items such as a background check, financial information, and other qualifications. Your particular state, as part of the licensing process, may require that you also obtain a surety bond to protect yourself and your clients financially. Check with your state to ask for requirements for licensing. Also, be sure to renew your licenses and bonds before they expire. In some states the license runs 2 years, some states just one year.  States like California currently require applicants for the yacht broker license to pass an exam before they can become licensed.  Florida requires a yacht broker to first be licensed as a yacht salesman for two years.

Never Stop Learning

Before you become a broker, it would be very helpful if you have had sales experience as a seller for another broker. Being a great salesperson is extremely crucial but constantly learning is what separates you from the competition. Networking with other yacht brokers or professionals in similar businesses can provide another beneficial aspect. Also consider taking classes that specialize in the field of boating, marketing and other business-related courses.

Starting up a yacht broker business can be difficult, but with extensive research, effective strategies, strong business ethics, and passion, being a yacht broker could be a dream career.

Are you a yacht broker looking for a surety bond?

Ashton Agency offers the California Yacht Broker bonds at a flat rate price, with no credit check.  Ashton also offers a great multi year program for Yacht Brokers with good credit.

Ashton Agency has been helping small businesses all across the US get bonded quickly and easily for over 40 years.

Call (800) 452-2663 speak with one of our bond specialist (hablamos español).

Or visit online:

Website: https://ashtonagency.com

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ashtonagency

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AshtonAgency

Abilene Texas contractor information.

Abilene Texas contractor information.

Starting your own business can be an exciting but overwhelming venture.  Surety bonds are a requirement in some states, cities, and counties to be compliant with federal, state and local laws in many industries.  If a business is required to have a bond, you will not be able to get a license without one.

Abilene requires many types of contractors to be registered, obtain general liability insurance, and obtain bonds. To ensure you remain in compliance with the laws of your industry make sure you have obtained the proper registration, bond, and insurance, if required.

Abilene Building, Roofing, Demolition, and Building Movers contractors are required to obtain a $25,000 bond.

Abilene Swimming Pool contractors are required to obtain a $10,000 bond.

Abilene Electrical, Plumbing, and Irrigation contractors are required to obtain a $5,000 bond.

Abilene Sign contractor are required to obtain a $3,000 bond.

To view the full list of requirements that Abilene requires, visit their site directly.

Being a licensed and bonded business shows credibility to the public that will be requiring your services.  Ashton Agency has been helping business owners with their specialty bonds since 1968.  What does that mean for you?  It means that Ashton Agency is able to offer some of the lowest flat rate, no credit check prices for your Abilene contractor bonds.

Start saving time and money immediately! 

Call us today at (800) 452-2663 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español).

You can also visit us online at:

Abilene Online Application

http://ashtonagency.com

https://www.facebook.com/ashtonagency

https://twitter.com/AshtonAgency

Oregon Landscape Contractor Bond

Newly passed Senate Bill 580 creates a new bond tier for Oregon Landscape Contractors.  The maximum bond amount was previously set at $15,000 and was required of any applicant who charged $25,000 or more for a job.  The new legislation keeps the $15,000 amount in effect, however, it is insufficient to cover jobs in which the contractor charges $50,000 or more.  They must now provide the LCB with a $20,000 Surety Bond.

The term “landscape contractor” seems to imply tasks such as mowing and edging, but the Oregon Landscape Contractors Board actually has a specific list of work a person or business may engage in that would require them to obtain a license as a landscape contractor.

• Plan or install new plantings or create new planting areas
• Install or repair irrigation systems or maintain irrigation systems with the use of compressed air
• Plan, install, maintain, or repair arbors, decks, patios, driveways, fences, retaining walls, walkways, concrete landscape edging or ornamental water features
• Install, maintain or repair drainage systems and ornamental water features

Before being able to legally engage in any of the work listed above, individuals must first obtain their license, bond and insurance.

Start saving time and money immediately! 

Call us today at (800) 452-2663 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español).

You can also visit us online at:

 http://ashtonagency.com

https://www.facebook.com/ashtonagency

https://twitter.com/AshtonAgency

New Mexico Contractor Bond

Deciding to go into business for yourself is exciting, but also can be very stressful. Contractors will quickly find themselves swamped with paperwork they must complete to legally operate, such as a surety bond.

Surety bonds are required in New Mexico for contractors in the amount of $10,000.

A licensed and bonded business shows credibility and strong business ethics. Consumers are much more likely to work with a business they can trust than those who do not provide that same feeling.

Surety bonds are different than insurance. Bonds serve more as consumer protection that you will abide by the laws of the government agency that requires the bond.

Ashton Agency offers the New Mexico contractor bond at a flat rate price, with no credit check. 

Ashton Agency has been helping contractors all across the US get bonded quickly and easily for over 40 years.

Call (800) 452-2663 speak with one of our bond specialist.

Or visit online:

Website:  https://ashtonagency.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashtonagency

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AshtonAgency

Florida Motor Vehicle Dealer Bonds

All Florida motor vehicle dealer bonds have a common expiration date of April 30th.  Auto dealers are required to obtain a $25,000 Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond to be in compliance with Section 320.27 of the Florida Statutes.

With one simple application Ashton Agency will shop around for the best rate possible and will get you a quote back in 1-2 business days.  Our in-house underwriters are able to look at many personal variables on your application and can offer the Florida Auto Dealer Bond as low as $200!

In addition to the bond, the State of Florida requires that you carry garage liability insurance.   Ashton Agency offers an experienced insurance department that can write your liability coverage also. We are your one-stop shop for all your auto dealer needs!

Start saving time and money immediately!  Call us today at (800) 451-4854 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español). 

Or visit online:

Website:  https://ashtonagency.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashtonagency

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AshtonAgency

Motor Vehicle Dealer Overview

In this post you’ll find a general overview of dealer bonds, also known as MVD bonds & license bonds.  For specific information on what type of bond and documentation you'll need to submit to satisfy the surety bond requirement of your dealership licensing process, please contact the appropriate motor vehicle agency in your state.

Auto dealers, used, new, and wholesalers in most states must file a surety bond with the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles before they can receive their dealer license.  Surety bonds are designed to protect the customers of the auto dealer.  A surety bond will help ensure that your dealership will follow the rules and regulations in the state where the dealership is located.

Typically, dealers obtain their motor vehicle dealer bond by applying with a surety bond company.  As part of the application process the dealer will fill out an application and agree to a credit check and may have to submit financial documentation, so that the bond company can be sure they are credit worthy and financially stable. 

Credit challenged clients may have a harder time acquiring a bond.  Some bond companies will not even help the dealer.  At Ashton Agency we are able to help almost all credit situations.  We have many programs available to help the clients with less than perfect credit.  Ashton Agency has been helping dealers all across the US get bonded quickly and easily for over 40 years.

Call (800) 452-2663 / (800) 451-4854 to speak with one of our bond specialist, or visit our website at http://ashtonagency.com.

California Used Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond.  All auto dealers are required to obtain a surety/license bond in the amount of $50,000 for a retail dealer.  A $10,000 bond is required for a motorcycle dealer, motorcycle lessor-retailer, all-terrain vehicle dealer, or wholesale-only dealer (less than 25 vehicles per year).  https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/vehindustry/ol/dealer

Ashton Agency is able to get you a price comparison back in 1-2 business days.  We also have programs specially designed to help get used car dealer bonds for dealers with challenged credit.  Ashton Agency will shop around for the best rate possible with one simple application.  Our in-house underwriters are able to look at many personal variables on your application and can offer some of the lowest rates for multi-year premiums!

In addition to the dealer bond, Ashton Agency can help keep you covered with garage liability insurance.  We also write the California VIN Verifier, Notary, and Registration bond.  We are your one-stop shop for all your auto dealer needs!

Start saving time and money immediately!  Call us today at (800) 452-2663 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español). 

You can also visit our website at http://ashtonagency.com

New Mexico MVD bond renewal is fast approaching.

All New Mexico motor vehicle dealer bonds have a common expiration date of March 31st.  Auto dealers are required to obtain a $50,000 Motor Vehicle Dealer Bond to be in compliance with New Mexico Statutes.

With one simple application, Ashton Agency will shop around for the best rate possible and will get you a quote back in 1-2 business days.  Our in-house underwriters are able to look at many personal variables on your application and can offer The New Mexico Auto Dealer Bond as low as $250! We also have programs for bad credit if you are needing a used car dealer bond.

Ashton Agency offers an experienced insurance department that can write your liability coverage also.  Ashton Agency also has the $30,000 VIN Verifier bond as low as $228.  We are your one-stop shop for all your auto dealer needs!

Start saving time and money immediately!  Call us today at (800) 452-2663 to speak with one of our helpful customer service representatives (hablamos español). 

You can also visit our website at http://ashtonagency.com

Oklahoma MVD and other bond changes.

Oklahoma used motor vehicle dealers, auctions, non-auction consignments, wholesale dealers, used motor vehicle rebuilders, and manufactured housing dealers will be required by the State of Oklahoma to carry a two year term bond for all licenses expiring 12/31/2015.   Ashton Agency is here to help you with this newly mandated change.  We have updated bond forms ready and have also been informed that the State of Oklahoma will accept a Continuation Certificate for renewal dates extended out to 12/31/17.  We are ready and prepared for this change.

If you have any questions about your upcoming Oklahoma used motor vehicle dealer bond renewal or require any of the other bonds stated above, please reach out to our team at Ashton Agency.

Visit Ashton Agency’s website at www.ashtonagency.com or call (800) 451-4854

2015 is looking to be a great year for motor vehicle dealers.

According to Black Book data, the average price for the average used vehicle for model years 2009-2013 fell 12.1% in 2014.  A much smaller decline than the 12.8% for 2013 and less than Black Book’s prediction of 13.5%.  For the year, domestic trucks finished with the lowest depreciation at 9.1%, while domestic cars topped out at 15.9% depreciation.

“The used-vehicle market finished another solid year,” said Manheim Chief Economist Tom Webb. “Consumers continue to see great value in purchasing used vehicles, even at higher price points. Dealers continue to see used vehicles as an important and profitable part of their business.”

2015 is looking to be an even better year for sales of used cars and trucks.  Before going into the business of selling cars, check with your state for their requirements.  Most states have an extensive list of things you must obtain before you can open your doors to the public.  Things like site approval, business license, dealer courses, insurance and surety bonds are just the basic, but mandatory requirements in most states.

There are many costs with opening a business that are set in stone.  Business license and dealer license are just a couple.  Things like insurance and surety bonds can be shopped to find a competitive price.  Finding the best price for these means you might have to do some extra work to find a company like Ashton Agency.  Ashton Agency does the work for you and gets you the lowest price from multiple markets.  Let Ashton Agency’s 40 plus years of experience help save you time and money.

Please visit Ashton Agency’s website at www.ashtonagency.com or call (800) 451-4854 (East Coast) or (800) 452-2663 (West Coast) to obtain your MVD bond and garage insurance.

What is Septic Tank Installation/Pumping and Who Needs It?

Almost 25% of America disposes of and treats their wastes with underground septic tanks.  The term “septic” refers to the anaerobic bacterial environment that develops in the tank which decomposes or mineralizes the waste discharged into the tank.

Septic Tank Installation/Pumping may also be known as Sewage Disposal Service.

For residents who use septic tanks, the tank is generally 1,000 or 2,000 gallons connected to an inlet wastewater pipe at one end and a septic drain field at the other.

The septic tank processes the incoming waste which then flows out to the drain field.

There are some wastes that cannot be totally processed so the septic tank needs to be periodically drained, or “pumped”.

Septic tank installers and pumpers are sometimes required to be licensed and bonded in various states through the United States.  Consumers need to be confident that their septic tank is installed properly, and maintained periodically.

Ashton Agency can provide contractors with their septic installer/pumper bonds.  For over 45 years Ashton Agency has served the bonding needs of companies throughout the United States.  Call now for a FREE quote within ONE business day!

Please visit our website at www.ashtonagency.com to fill out our easy-to-use online application, or call (800) 451-4854 (East Coast) or (800) 452-2663 (West Coast) to obtain your septic bond.

Home Improvement Contractors

When consumers need improvement work done to their homes, they prefer to hire licensed and bonded professionals, especially when it comes to home remodeling.  And contractors want to be known as a state licensed, insured and bonded contractor to project professionalism and confidence to their customers.

Some states require Home Improvement Contractors to be licensed, and most of those states require a bond.  The bond will protect the consumer from shoddy work by the contractor, or non-payment by the contractor of materials used on the job.

The license/bond covers remodeling to existing residential homes, usually between $3,000 to $25,000.  These costs includes materials and labor.  Projects more than that usually require a separate general contractors license and bond.

Types of Home Improvement projects include repair, replacement, remodeling, altering, converting, modernization or improvement; or addition to any land or building such as driveways, swimming pools, porches, garages, landscaping, fences, fall-out shelters, roofing, painting and other improvements adjacent.

Home Improvement does not cover electrical, plumbing, or HVAC.  These types of work are usually covered under a separately required license and bond.

Ashton Agency has been serving the bonding needs of contractors across the country for over 45 years.  Let Ashton provide your surety bond.  Click www.ashtonagency.com, or call us at (800) 451-4854 (East Coast) or (800) 452-2663 (West Coast).

Florida Passes Laws on Liens, Registration Fees

On May 3, Florida passed a bill that will result in a drop in vehicle registration fees in an effort to reduce taxes and fees. Auto dealers will have an additional resource to recover vehicles under lien. The Department of Transportation bill added the amendment after Governor Rick Scott signed. The bill would go into effect on October 1st.

The new passage will follow a bill that cuts about $400 million in vehicle registration fees, which will go into effect September 1st.

Scott says that these efforts are part of his "It's Your Money Tax Cut Budget" plan and reduces fees between $5 and $11.50 per registration on cars, trucks, motorcycles, mopeds, and antique vehicles.

This is great news for Florida motor vehicle dealers. Cutting costs will certainly provide more room for expenses. Florida auto dealers should already be renewed for their surety bond. However, Ashton Agency can also help your shop with several options, including garage liability insurance, garage keeper, floorplanning and warranties.

Call the Ashton Agency today to speak with one of our representative at 1 (800) 451-4854 or visit us on our website www.ashtonagency.com. Feel free to fill out our easy-to-use applications for a FREE quote within ONE business day!

Memorial Day Weekend 2014

Ashton Agency will be closing at 3:00 PM today in observation of Memorial Day Weekend 2014. We will also be closed on Monday, May 26, 2014.

Our normal hours of operation will continue after Monday, May 26:

Monday to Thursday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM 
Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

If you need assistance with your bond or garage insurance, please feel free to give us a call at (800) 451-4854 (East Coast) or (800) 452-2663 (West Coast). Or visit our website at www.ashtonagency.com.

Also follow us on Facebook and Twitter! @ashtonagency

What are Sellers of Travel?

In Florida, the Sellers of Travel law requires any person or business who is a seller or promoted of travel related services to register annually with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, unless exempt.

Sellers of Travel are also required to provide proof of assurance in the form of a performance bond, in an amount not to exceed $25,000, or $50,000 if they sell vacation certificates.  The Department is authorized to collect registration fees and impose penalties for non-compliance of the law.  In addition, an annual filing fee of $50 is required for each independent sales agent.

A Seller of Travel is any resident or nonresident person, firm or corporation, or business entity who offers for sale, directly or indirectly, at wholesale or retail, prearranged travel or tourist-related services for individuals or groups, through vacation or tour packages, or through vacation certificates in exchange for a fee, commission, or other valuable consideration.  The term includes any business entity offering membership in a travel club or travel service for an advance fee or payment, even if no travel contracts or certificates or vacation or tour packages are sold by the business entity.

Please check with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at 1-800-435-7352, or click on www.freshfromflorida.com for more information regarding your particular situation.

Ashton Agency has been serving the bonding needs of businesses across America for over 45 years.  We can help you with your Travel Bond.  Call us toll free at (800) 451-4854 or click www.ashtonagency.com.

Benefits of Getting a Telemarketing Bond

Are you currently establishing a telemarketing firm or call center? As with any business, you will need the proper requirements and licenses before legally operating this business, including a surety bond.

Telemarketing professionals are required by the State of Florida to obtain their Telemarketing Bond to be in compliance with the Florida Statutes 501.601-501.626.

Here are some benefits of obtaining your telemarketing surety bond:

Integrity
Obtaining a surety bond instills the integrity of your contract and agreement between you and your customers.

Licensed
The Florida Telemarketing Act requires that telemarketing businesses acquire the $50,000 Telemarketer Bond to protect consumers who get injured as a result of the company's negligence or poor financial practices.

Trust
Acquiring the Telemarketer Bond builds trust between you and your clients. Bonded telemarketing businesses assures both consumers and the government that you will comply with industry rules and regulations.

Surety bond requirements vary within each local and state law. It's important to find out which surety bond form you need and how much coverage you must purchase. Failing to obtain the correct bond may result in penalty fines, risk of losing license and legal action.

Are you looking to get your Florida Telemarketing Bond? We can help you today!

Call us at (800) 451-4854 to speak with one of our friendly customer service representatives to get started on your bond. You can also visit our website at www.ashtonagency.com fill out one of our easy-to-use online applications!

Ashton Agency Returns Back to Normal Hours of Operation

Greetings from the Winter Park, Florida office of the Ashton Agency!

We will be returning back to our normal hours of operation on Friday, and will be closing at 4:00 PM EST.

Our weekday hours will still remain the same: Monday to Thursday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

If you need assistance with your bond or garage insurance, please feel free to give us a call at (800) 451-4854 (East Coast) or (800) 452-2663 (West Coast). Or visit our website at www.ashtonagency.com.

Also follow us on Facebook and Twitter! @ashtonagency