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Bonded and Insured: What Every Business Owner Should Know 

Being bonded and insured means your business is financially protected and accountable if something goes wrong. For many customers, contractors, and partners, hiring a bonded and insured business is a baseline requirement, not a bonus. It signals trust, responsibility, and readiness to operate professionally. 

For small business owners, understanding what bonded and insured actually means can help you with contracts, protect your finances, and avoid costly misunderstandings. Gild Insurance Agency helps businesses cut through the confusion with guidance and flexible business insurance built for how you work. 

What “Bonded and Insured” Actually Means 

A business is considered bonded and insured when it carries active insurance coverage and holds a surety bond. While the terms are often used together, they provide two different types of protection: 

• Insurance covers claims, injuries, and property damage related to your business operations. 
• Bonds provide a financial guarantee to clients if contractual or ethical obligations are not met. 

Why Clients Look for Bonded and Insured Businesses 

Clients look for bonded and insured businesses because it reduces their risk. Hiring a business that is bonded and insured reassures customers that they are protected financially if work is not completed properly or if an accident occurs. Many  contractorselectricians, and plumbers are expected to be bonded and insured before they can work with clients. 

Many clients, landlords, and partners require proof of insurance or bonding before signing a contract. Carrying coverage like general liability insurance or workers compensation insurance can also help businesses meet legal requirements and contract terms. Especially when employees or subcontractors are involved. 

Types of Bonds and Insurance Small Businesses May Need 

Not every business may need the same protection, but some may benefit from a combination of insurance and bonding based on their operations. 

Common insurance types include: 

Common bond types include, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration1

  • Surety bonds, which guarantee contractual performance 
  • License and permit bonds, which are required by state or local regulations 
  • Fidelity bonds, which protect clients from employee theft or dishonest acts 

Gild Insurance Agency helps businesses understand which protections apply to their industry type and growth stage, without complicating the process. 

Common Misconceptions About Being Bonded and Insured 

Many small business owners assume that having insurance automatically means they are bonded and insured, but that is not the case. Insurance and bonding serve different purposes, and a business may need both to meet contract requirements, licensing rules, or client expectations. 

Insurance covers losses, claims, or legal defense. Bonds provide a financial guarantee to clients, not coverage for your business. Another misconception is that bonding and insurance are only for large companies. Many small businesses are expected to carry both to stay competitive and compliant. 

Bonded and Insured – Made Simple with Gild 

Understanding what it means to be bonded and insured does not have to be complicated. Gild Insurance Agency helps small business owners get bonded and insured with coverage that fits their work, contracts, and long-term goals. 

Whether you need general liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, or broader business insurance, Gild makes it easier to get covered, stay compliant, and show clients you are ready to do business with confidence. 

Ready to protect your business? Get a quote online or schedule a call with a Gild agent today

Frequently Asked Questions 

What does it mean if a business is bonded and insured? 

A business is bonded and insured when it has insurance coverage for accidents or claims and a bond that guarantees its obligations to clients. 

What is the difference between being insured and being bonded? 

Being insured protects the business from financial loss. Being bonded protects the customer if the business fails to meet contractual, legal, or ethical obligations. 

Why would a person need to be bonded? 

A person may need to be bonded to meet licensing requirements, qualify for contracts, or give clients confidence that they are financially protected if work is not completed properly or honestly. 

How much does it cost to be bonded and insured? 

The cost depends on your industry, business size, risk level, and coverage needs. Bonds often start at a low annual fee, while insurance costs vary based on coverage limits and policy type. 

  1. https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/surety-bonds ↩︎

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Insurance

Business Insurance for Pressure Washing 

Pressure washing is more than just a hose and high-powered spray. It’s a specialized service that enhances curb appeal, protects property value, and improves safety. But with that power comes risk. A cracked window, chipped paint, or a mistakenly damaged surface can quickly turn into a costly claim. That’s where business insurance for pressure washing becomes essential. 

At Gild Insurance, we understand the unique challenges pressure washing professionals face. From property damage to bodily injury, we’re here to help you protect your business, your team, and your future. 

What Is Business Insurance for Pressure Washing? 

Business insurance for pressure washing is a combination of policies designed to protect your company from financial losses due to property damage, bodily injury, lawsuits, or equipment issues. It helps ensure that if something goes wrong on the job, your business doesn’t suffer the full financial burden. 

Why Pressure Washers Need Business Insurance 

Pressure washing involves high pressure, specialized equipment, and the potential for liability. Even the most experienced technician can make a mistake. And unfortunately, clients may hold your business responsible for damage; whether it was accidental or unavoidable. 

Here are some of the common risks that pressure washing professionals face: 

  • Property Damage: High-pressure streams can crack siding, break windows, or erode surfaces if not handled properly. 
  • Injury to Bystanders: Flying debris or accidental sprays can injure pedestrians or clients. 
  • Slip-and-Fall Incidents: Wet surfaces left behind after a job can become slipping hazards. 
  • Equipment Theft or Damage: Your tools are your livelihood and replacing them unexpectedly can be expensive. 

Without the right business insurance for pressure washing, one claim could drain your savings or force you to close shop. 

Coverage to Consider 

To build a reliable safety net for your pressure washing business, Gild recommends a few key policies: 

  • Workers’ Compensation: Required in most states if you have employees, this covers workplace injuries and lost wages. 

Depending on the scope of your services and size of your team, you may also consider professional liability or inland marine coverage for tools in transit. 

How Much Does Business Insurance for Pressure Washing Cost? 

The cost of business insurance for pressure washing varies based on several factors: 

  • Size of your business and annual revenue 
  • Number of employees 
  • Type of services offered (e.g., residential vs. commercial jobs) 
  • Location and coverage limits 

This is dependent of the type of business and coverage options, but, generally between $500 – $1000, annually. Bundling multiple policies or choosing higher coverage limits will increase the cost but offer broader protection. 

Gild Insurance offers customized quotes to ensure you get the protection you need at a price that fits your budget. To find out more about pressure washing insurance, click here.

Get the Coverage That Fits Your Business 

Whether you’re power washing residential driveways, cleaning storefront windows, or tackling commercial jobs, the right coverage helps you move forward with confidence. 

Gild Insurance specializes in insurance for skilled trades and service-based businesses. We make it simple to compare policies, get insured, and manage your coverage online. 

Ready to protect your pressure washing business? Get a quote today and find out how Gild can help you stay covered and competitive. 

Categories
Insurance

Small Business Banking Solutions: Gild Partners with Owners Bank

If you’re actively looking for better ways to manage your business finances, you’re in the right place. Gild has partnered with Owners Bank to deliver smart, reliable, and action-ready small business banking solutions—built for entrepreneurs who are ready to grow. 

You may be wondering, what are small business banking solutions? They’re the financial tools and services, like business checking accounts, loans, and digital banking platforms, built specifically to help small businesses manage their money, access capital, and scale with confidence. 

With tools like fast financing, business checking, and seamless online loan applications, this partnership gives Gild customers a powerful new way to handle money while staying protected. 

Smarter Small Business Banking Solutions for Modern Entrepreneurs 

Let’s cut to the chase—traditional banks weren’t built for businesses like yours. Owners Bank changes that with a suite of modern products and tools designed specifically for small business growth: 

  • Flexible Business Loans – Get quick access to capital to expand, hire, or invest in what’s next 
  • Business Checking & Savings – Earn more while managing daily cash flow 
  • Fast, Online Loan Applications – Apply in minutes without visiting a branch 
  • Designed for Entrepreneurs – Whether you’re freelancing, consulting, or scaling a team, you’ll find a banking experience that fits your workflow 

Everything is built to support smart decisions, strong growth, and smooth operations.  

Why Small Business Banking Solutions from Gild + Owners Bank Work for You 

At Gild, we do more than protect your business; we help it thrive. This partnership delivers more value where it matters: your money. 

You already trust us to safeguard your business. Now, you can take advantage of small business banking solutions designed to help it grow, including: 

  • Business loans tailored to your needs 
  • Integrated money tools that sync with how you work 
  • Access to exclusive features, just for Gild customers 

Term Loan: A Long-Term Small Business Banking Solution  

Looking for funding to improve your workspace, upgrade equipment, or take on a long-term growth project? Gild customers can now apply for an Owners Bank Term Loan—a small business banking solution designed for capital improvements with repayment timelines longer than two years. 

✅ What It’s For: 

  • Workspace upgrades or office expansions 
  • Equipment financing 
  • Long-term capital investments 

⭐ Why Business Owners Love It: 

  • Fast loan decisions 
  • Competitive interest rates 
  • Easily pay off existing debt at loan settlement 
  • 100% digital experience—with access to real, personalized bankers when you need support 

📋 You May Qualify If You: 

  • Have been in business for more than 6 months 
  • Operate in one of the 13 states Owners Bank currently serves 
  • Available to businesses operating in Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Virginia, Connecticut, Texas, Michigan, Illinois, Ohio.
  • Are registered with the Secretary of State 

Gild Customers Get More 

With Owners Bank’s flexible business financing, Gild Insurance customers can take advantage of this partnership to get the fast financing they need to grow their business—in the same way they chose Gild Insurance to protect it. 

Take the Next Step 

You’re already protecting your business. Now, take control of how you finance and manage it. 

Get started with Owners Bank → http://info.yourgild.com/ownersbank 
 

Let Gild and The Owners Bank help you go further—with the support, solutions, and speed you need to scale. 

Owners Bank is a division of Liberty Bank. Member FDIC. 

Categories
Insurance

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Insights from Gild Insurance’s Marketing Manager 

International Women’s Day is a celebration of resilience, progress, and the entrepreneurial spirit of women worldwide. At Gild Insurance, supporting women-owned businesses isn’t just a one-day event—it’s our everyday. Founded by Mary Duggan Hoeprich, a passionate entrepreneur dedicated to making small business insurance accessible and hassle-free, Gild is a woman-owned business committed to empowering fellow women business owners. We spoke with Jordyn, Gild’s Marketing Manager, about how Gild champions women entrepreneurs and the role marketing plays in their success. 

Making Insurance Accessible for Women Entrepreneurs 

Women business owners face unique challenges—juggling multiple roles, securing funding, and managing risks—all while navigating industries that may not always cater to their needs. As a former entrepreneur herself, Jordyn understands these hurdles. That’s why Gild Insurance is committed to making business insurance fast, affordable, and transparent, so women can focus on growing their ventures with confidence. 

“We work with partners that support women-owned businesses—like salon suites, HR platforms, and business consulting services—to ensure they have the right coverage,” Jordyn shares. “Through education, case studies, and a digital-first approach, we’re simplifying the process, so insurance isn’t a burden, but a tool for success.” 

Marketing That Puts Women Entrepreneurs First 

One of the biggest challenges in insurance marketing is breaking the misconception that coverage is complicated or unnecessary. Many business owners don’t think about insurance until something goes wrong, and traditional marketing often fails to connect with them in a meaningful way. 

At Gild, storytelling is a key strategy. Instead of just listing policy details, the company highlights real business owners, shares their journeys, and makes insurance more approachable. “Insurance isn’t just a checkbox—it’s protection for everything you’ve built,” Jordyn says. “We want our messaging to reflect the experiences of women entrepreneurs and give them the resources they need to succeed.” 

Building a Brand with Impact 

For women looking to strengthen their brand, Jordyn emphasizes the importance of authenticity and consistency. A strong brand isn’t just about a logo or color scheme—it’s about clear messaging and a deep understanding of your audience. Women entrepreneurs can set themselves apart by sharing their unique perspectives, leveraging personal branding, and building trust through content that educates and inspires. 

Another key factor is visibility. Women business owners are embracing digital marketing, SEO, and social proof to differentiate themselves in competitive spaces. “A compelling digital presence, combined with a strong network, can make all the difference in standing out and attracting the right clients,” Jordyn explains. 

A Call to Action on International Women’s Day 

International Women’s Day is a reminder of how far women have come in business, and how much work remains. While more women are stepping into leadership roles and launching their own brands, challenges like underrepresentation and access to resources still exist. 

“Brands need to do more than just acknowledge women entrepreneurs—they need to actively support them,” Jordyn says. That means investing in women-owned businesses, offering mentorship opportunities, and making essential tools—like insurance—easier to access. 

At Gild Insurance, that commitment is ongoing. By providing education, strategic partnerships, and easy-to-use insurance solutions, Gild is helping women business owners protect their work and thrive. For further reading about how Gild Insurance supports woman founded business, check out our blog post, “Female Founded Companies: How to Start a Small Business As a Woman.” 

Looking for the right coverage for your business? Learn more about how Gild Insurance can help today. 

Categories
Insurance

Safeguard Your Plumbing Business: Liability Insurance and Workers’ Comp Explained

Plumbing businesses face unique risks, not only from the work itself but also from the potential injuries employees might encounter on the job. For plumbing business owners, ensuring your team is protected while safeguarding your business from costly liabilities is essential. This is where workers’ compensation and plumber liability insurance come into play. At Gild Insurance, we provide tailored insurance solutions that include workers’ compensation, plumber liability insurance, and plumbing business insurance. With our help, you can protect your business from every angle and focus on what you do best.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation for Plumbers

Workers’ compensation is an insurance designed to protect employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and even rehabilitation costs. For plumbing businesses, where employees frequently work in hazardous environments, workers’ compensation is more than a legal requirement; it is a critical safeguard for your team.

Common Workplace Injuries in Plumbing

Because plumbing work involves physical labor, heavy tools, and potentially dangerous conditions, it poses several risks. Here are some common injuries plumbers may experience:

  • Slips and Falls: Wet surfaces or cramped spaces can lead to accidents, which might result in injuries.
  • Back Strains and Sprains: Lifting heavy equipment or working in awkward positions often causes musculoskeletal issues.
  • Cuts and Burns: Handling sharp tools, hot water, or chemicals can lead to immediate injuries requiring medical attention.
  • Respiratory Issues: Poor ventilation, exposure to mold, or harmful fumes may lead to long-term respiratory health problems.

If you lack workers’ compensation, these injuries could lead to significant financial strain, affecting both the employee and the business.

Legal and Financial Protection for Your Business

Most states mandate businesses with employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. However, compliance is only one part of the equation. Workers’ compensation also provides critical benefits:

  • Protect Your Employees: It ensures injured employees receive proper care and financial support during recovery, fostering trust and loyalty.
  • Avoid Costly Lawsuits: When employees are covered, they typically cannot sue their employer for workplace injuries, minimizing legal risks.
  • Secure Your Business’s Future: Covering medical expenses and lost wages out-of-pocket can quickly deplete your financial resources. Workers’ compensation helps you avoid such risks.

The Importance of Plumber Liability Insurance

While workers’ compensation safeguards your employees, plumber liability insurance focuses on protecting your business. It shields you from claims involving property damage or injuries to clients and third parties. For example, if you accidentally damage a client’s property during a repair or if a bystander is injured because of your work, liability insurance helps cover these costs. This type of coverage is essential to preserving your reputation and financial stability.

How Gild Insurance Can Help

At Gild Insurance, we understand the distinct challenges that plumbing businesses face. We offer customized solutions like plumber liability insurance, workers’ compensation, and plumbing business insurance to protect every aspect of your operations. When you choose Gild Insurance, you benefit from:

  • Ensured Compliance: We will help you meet your state’s legal requirements for workers’ compensation.
  • Affordable Coverage: Our plans protect your employees and business without overwhelming your budget.
  • Expert Guidance: Our team is here to answer your questions and design a plan tailored to your unique needs.

For more information on how Gild can protect your plumbing business, click here.

Coverage for Plumbing Businesses

Workers’ compensation is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to protecting your plumbing business. By combining it with liability insurance and business insurance, you can ensure your business is prepared for any eventuality. To learn more about these coverages, check out our blog, “Why Plumber Insurance is Essential for Peace of Mind.”

Protect Your Business and Your Team Today

Running a plumbing business requires tackling challenges head-on, but you don’t have to face them alone. Workers’ compensation, paired with other essential coverages, provides the peace of mind you need to focus on growing your business. Contact Gild Insurance today to explore our tailored insurance plans and discover how we can help you protect your team and your future.