The Formula
The bail bond premium is straightforward to calculate:
Bail Amount × 8% = Estimated Premium
The bail amount is the figure set by the court or county bail schedule. The 8% rate is the most common filed rate in California. Multiply the two and you have the estimated premium — the fee paid to the bail bond company. This is an estimate; the actual rate depends on the surety company and applicant qualifications and must be confirmed in writing before any bond is posted.
Common Bail Amounts and Estimated Premiums
| Bail Amount | Estimated 8% Premium | Calculation |
|---|---|---|
| $10,000 | $800 | $10,000 × 0.08 |
| $25,000 | $2,000 | $25,000 × 0.08 |
| $50,000 | $4,000 | $50,000 × 0.08 |
| $100,000 | $8,000 | $100,000 × 0.08 |
| $150,000 | $12,000 | $150,000 × 0.08 |
| $250,000 | $20,000 | $250,000 × 0.08 |
Example only. Actual bail may differ from the county schedule amount.
Filed Surety Rates and State Regulation
California bail bond premiums are regulated by the California Department of Insurance. Bail bond companies must file their rates with the state. The most common filed rate is 8%. You can verify a license at insurance.ca.gov. Post It Bail Bonds holds California License #1M37243.
Written Terms Required Before Posting
California law requires that the applicable rate and all terms be explained in writing before any bond is posted. The written agreement must include the total bail amount, the premium amount and rate, any collateral requirements, payment plan terms if applicable, and the indemnitor's obligations if the defendant fails to appear.
The Premium Is Nonrefundable After Posting
Once the bond is posted, the premium is earned and is not refundable — even if charges are dropped, the defendant is found not guilty, or the case resolves quickly. For more detail, see: Do You Get Bail Money Back If Charges Are Dropped?
What Can Affect the Final Premium
If a judge increases or reduces bail at arraignment, the premium is recalculated based on the new amount. Different surety companies may file different rates. The bail amount itself — not the premium — can change based on what the judge decides at arraignment.
Get a Free Estimate
Check the county schedule bail amount and see the estimated 8% premium for a specific charge in Los Angeles, Orange, or Riverside County. No personal information is required.
Check the Scheduled Bail and Estimated 8% Premium →
Reviewed by: Post It Bail Bonds, California License #1M37243. Last reviewed September 1, 2026. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.