covid-19 bulletin

Last Updated: November 23, 2020

Merchants Bonding Company Operations

Merchants Bonding Company is actively monitoring the COVID-19 (coronavirus) activity and will provide up-to-date information on business operations, as well as tools and resources to help as we navigate our current environment.

Will Merchants Bonding Company continue operations during the COVID-19 outbreak?

Yes, Merchants offices will be operated by essential personnel and all others will be working from home through at least April 1. Merchants is committed to providing first class experiences while providing a safe environment for Merchants associates across the country. We have planned and prepared for incidents that present special circumstances so that we can continue to provide uninterrupted service.

During this time you may:

continue to call and email your Merchants Bonding underwriting teams.
continue to mail physical documents to P.O. Box 14498, Des Moines, IA 50306-3498.
use our best in class online bond ordering system, the Hub, to find bond forms, and to communicate and send documentation securely.
report a claim with our easy online forms.
contact us through info@merchantsbonding.com for any questions or concerns. We are more than happy to help.

For agents working from home

Easily process bond requests 24/7

Our online bond ordering website, the Hub, allows agents their own individual login to access and process bond requests if your agency should move to a work from home policy. We hope these tools help you during these uncertain times. If you need more information on the Hub, please contact your Merchants Bonding underwriter.

Can bonds be signed electronically?

The obligee for the bond determines whether or not an electronic signature is acceptable. Merchants Bonding defaults to wet signatures with the exception of some pre-executed bonds already available on the Hub. If you have questions about electronic signatures for a particular bond, please contact your Merchants underwriter directly.

Can our agency obtain more hand seals?

For agencies requesting additional seals, contact agency@merchantsbonding.com. Due to the increased number of requests, we are providing a limited number of sticker seals for agencies.

Can our agency use digital seals?

As we adjust to alternative work environments, Merchants has made digital seals available to our agents to streamline the bonding process. Sign in to the Hub or contact your underwriter for access.