How to file a claim against a broker's bond

A bond claim is often the fastest route to recovery when a broker has stopped paying or gone out of business.

1. Find the surety or trustee

On FMCSA Licensing & Insurance (L&I), open the broker's Insurance / Active Insurance history. The BMC-84 or BMC-85 row lists the surety or trustee and the policy number.

2. Gather your documents

• Signed rate confirmation (and broker-carrier agreement if any)
• Bill of lading and signed proof of delivery
• Your invoice and any accessorial approvals (detention, TONU, lumper receipts)
• Proof you asked for payment: emails, demand letter, statements

3. Contact the surety for its claim process

Ask for the claim form and file promptly. Sureties and trustees generally process claims for a defined period after a broker fails, and the $75,000 is shared by all claimants. Keep copies of everything you send.

4. Keep other options open

A bond claim doesn't stop you from sending a demand letter, using your factoring company's collections, or filing suit. Under 49 U.S.C. 14705, carriers generally must begin a civil action to recover charges within 18 months after the claim accrues.

Signed-in carriers can generate a bond claim letter from any approved report on RatedPaid.

Last reviewed 2026-10-25. General information, not legal advice. More guides · Check a broker