Illinois Performance & Payment Bonds
What these bonds are
A performance bond guarantees you complete the contract; a payment bond guarantees you pay your subcontractors and suppliers. In Illinois, they almost always travel together on construction work — especially public projects — and they protect the project owner and the people below you on the job, not you.
When Illinois requires them
On Illinois public works, the awarding board or state agency requires both bonds by statute. Private owners and general contractors often require them by contract on larger jobs.
How underwriting works
Unlike a license or permit bond, a performance or payment bond is underwritten around a specific project. The surety looks at your financial statements, your work program and track record, and your single-job and aggregate capacity. There is no instant button — you request a quote and a licensed producer works the file with you.
Request a bond quote
Tell us about the bond and the project. A licensed producer follows up — these bonds are individually underwritten, so they are not issued instantly.
Frequently asked questions
- What are Illinois performance & payment bonds?
- A performance bond guarantees you complete the contract; a payment bond guarantees you pay your subcontractors and suppliers. In Illinois, they almost always travel together on construction work — especially public projects — and they protect the project owner and the people below you on the job, not you.
- When does Illinois require a performance or payment bond?
- On Illinois public works, the awarding board or state agency requires both bonds by statute. Private owners and general contractors often require them by contract on larger jobs.
- How do I get a performance and payment bond in Illinois?
- Request a quote with your project and company details. These bonds are individually underwritten, so a licensed producer follows up — they are not issued from an instant portal.
- How is the bond underwritten?
- The surety reviews your financial statements, your work program and experience, and your single-job and aggregate capacity. Stronger financials and relevant experience generally mean easier approval and better terms.
- Is this bond insurance for me?
- No. It protects the obligee and the people on the job — not you. If a valid claim is paid, you repay the surety.
- Who is Wexford Bonds?
- Wexford Bonds is the surety bond brand of Wexford Insurance, LLC, licensed in 48 states. We write Illinois contract surety bonds.
