Illinois Guardianship Bond

An Illinois guardianship bond (also called a conservatorship bond) protects a minor’s or disabled person’s estate from financial misuse by a court-appointed guardian. Courts generally require the bond when a guardian controls assets, and they set the amount under 755 ILCS 5/12-2. Premiums are typically 1–5% of the bond amount, based on credit and the case. You’ll apply online, undergo credit-based underwriting, pay the premium, and file the executed bond with the Circuit Court Clerk; renewals keep coverage continuous.

A guardianship bond is a type of probate surety that guarantees the guardian will follow court orders and properly manage the ward’s assets. If duties are breached, the surety can pay valid claims up to the bond amount and seek reimbursement from the guardian. For basics, see what a surety bond is. In Illinois, this bond is sometimes called a conservatorship bond and is governed by the Probate Act of 1975. Browse related options on Illinois surety bonds. 

Premiums for probate bonds are typically 1–5% of the court-ordered bond amount, with credit-based underwriting driving where you land in that range. Example: a $30,000 bond might cost $300 at 1% for strong credit, while a $100,000 bond could run $5,000 at 5%. The premium covers one term (often 12 months) and is separate from the bond amount itself. Courts set the bond amount; the premium reflects risk, not the estate’s value directly. 

Start online and keep it simple: 

• Apply through our online application. 
• We review your file using credit-based underwriting and any court documents that reference the bond amount. 
• Upon approval, you pay the premium and receive the bond and power of attorney. 
• File the executed bond with the county’s Circuit Court Clerk for judicial approval. Local Court Forms can help you see typical filing formats. 

Most bonds renew annually. You’ll receive notifications so there’s no lapse in continuous coverage while the guardianship remains active. 

Yes—our flexible underwriting is designed to help applicants with challenged credit histories. We look beyond a score to the overall file and court context, then price transparently so you know why a premium falls where it does. You’ll still follow the same steps: apply, undergo review, and, if approved, file the bond with the court. For general questions about process and timelines, visit our surety bonds FAQs. 

Do all Illinois guardians need a bond or only guardians of the estate? 

Courts typically require the bond when a guardian will manage money or property as a guardian of the estate. By contrast, a guardian of the person - who makes personal and care decisions—may not be required to post a bond unless the judge orders it. The goal is safeguarding the ward’s assets: the bond ensures faithful performance, accounting, and compliance with court orders under the Probate Act. If a case involves both roles, the court can tailor the bond to the estate risks. 

How is the bond amount set for Illinois guardianships? 

Under 755 ILCS 5/12-2, courts set the bond relative to the personal estate. Common practice is 1.5× the estate value when using a <em>corporate surety</em) and 2× if relying on <em>individual sureties</em>. The judge can consider cash on deposit, investments, expected income, and any restrictions placed on accounts to determine an appropriate amount that protects the ward without being excessive. 

Where do I file the bond and what form is used? 

After approval by the surety, you file the executed bond with the county’s Circuit Court Clerk in the probate case. Many courts provide an “oath and bond” format or cover sheet; check local Court Forms for examples. The judge reviews and approves the bond before issuing letters. Keep your stamped copy with your records—you’ll need it for account openings, restricted depositories, and annual accountings. 

Can the court waive or reduce the bond? 

The court has discretion to adjust bond requirements based on the estate’s size, restricted accounts, or other safeguards that reduce risk. Judges may permit lower amounts when funds are locked in restricted depositories or when limited personal property is involved. Conversely, if risks increase, the court can require a higher bond or continuation of coverage. Always follow the court’s specific order; if circumstances change, request guidance or a modified bond amount through the case.

Cook County Court. (n.d.). Court forms – Probate division. Cook County, Illinois.
https://www.cookcountycourt.org/division/probate-division/court-forms-probate-division

Illinois Compiled Statutes. (n.d.). 755 ILCS 5/12-2. Bond of representative. Illinois General Assembly.
https://www.ilga.gov/Documents/legislation/ilcs/documents/075500050K12-2.htm

Justia. (n.d.). 755 ILCS 5/Article XIa - Guardians for disabled adults. Illinois Code of Civil Procedure.
https://law.justia.com/codes/illinois/chapter-755/act-755-ilcs-5/article-xia/

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). Frequently asked questions.
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/learn/faqs

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). Illinois surety bonds.
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/bonds-by-state/illinois

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). Surety bond quote.
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/surety-bond-quote

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). What is a surety bond?
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/learn/what-is-a-surety-bond