To obtain a money transmitter license, every state requires a surety bond. Depending on your state, this license may be called money remitter, money services business, check casher, or sales of check license.

Why Do I Need This Bond?

A surety bond is made to protect the public. In basic terms, it guarantees your business will adhere to all laws and requirements in your industry. In the event your business conducts unlawful acts, a consumer of your services may file a claim on the bond.

Nearly any company that offers payment services requires a money transmitter bond. Due to a history of fraudulence and inaccurate money transmissions, state agencies now require this bond to protect consumers. While this bond does not protect the business owner, it offers proof that your business handles clients’ money responsibly.

How Much Will the Bond Cost?

The cost of the bond, the “premium,” depends largely on the bond amount and the applicant’s financial status. The state requiring the bond determines the amount. At Surety 1, we will find you the lowest quote for your bond, starting at only 1.5% of the bond amount.

money transmitter bond

 

Money Transmitter Bond

In order to get your money transmitter’s business license, you’ll need a bond.

  • Required by: South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation
  • Minimum bond amount: $100,000
  • Maximum bond amount: Varies
  • Valid: 1 year-renewable

This bond ensures compliance with the laws of Chapter 51A-17 of the Codified Laws in the South Dakota Statutes along with other South Dakota state laws.

The applicant should verify the bond amount with the obligee before applying for the bond to ensure the bond amount is correct.

 

Money Transmitter License

These are additional details about the licensing process that you should be aware of. (Only the bond is handled at Surety1, but this information will help you get your license.)

License Requirements:

  1. Legal name and residential address of applicant
  2. 2 sets of fingerprint cards
  3. Signed waver to allow the division to conduct a criminal investigation of the applicant
  4. Detailed description of current and previous business activities of the applicant
  5. Surety bond
  6. $500 non-refundable application fee
  7. $1,000 license fee
  8. $500 application fee and $25 filing fee
  9. Minimum net worth of $100,000
  10. Certificate of good standing

All licensing fees are required by the obligee, not the surety company.

The license application can be filled out using an electronic system referred to as NMLS. Although, for businesses that are not conducting multi-state businesses or do not want to use the electronic application system can also have access to other application forms.

Money transmitters in South Dakota must also register as a money services business (MSB) with the Federal Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). The registration process must be completed by the Bank Secretary Act (BSA) e-filing system.

Learn more at the South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation and see a checklist for new money transmitter license applications from NMLS.

 

How to Get Your South Dakota Money Transmitter Bond

  1. Complete an online application. It’s free and no-obligation.
  2. One of our surety experts will contact you with a firm quote and an agreement to sign.
  3. Provide payment and your signed agreement, and then you will receive your Surety Bond!

If you have any questions, please call us at 877-654-2327.

How to Get Bonded

1. Apply Online
Using our Free & Secure Application
2. Get Your Free Quote
Applications are No-Obligation
3. Get Your Bond
Most Bonds are Approved in 1-2 Business Days

Surety Bond Experts

Surety1 was founded in 2003 and helps thousands of clients find the best prices on their surety bonds. We take pride in our work so that we can give you great service. Learn more about Surety1.

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