Most entities that require bonds (formally known as "obligees") require at least one individual sign the bond form before filing it.
When signing your bond, you should always sign the signature line labeled for the "principal." If you're filing a bond for your company, usually only one official business representative needs to sign, but a few bond forms do require multiple signatures depending on the form's language.
There are three primary signature requirements that vary based on the bond form's format:
Principal signature(s) only
Principal signature(s) accompanied by a third-party "witness" who is not associated with the bond or related to the principal
Principal signature(s) accompanied by an official notary signature who is not associated with the bond or related to the principal
Some obligees accept digital bond paperwork with digital signatures while others require original, physical signatures made with an ink pen. Signature requirements are always set by the obligee, so you'll want to verify exactly who they want to sign your bond with them to avoid any potential signature errors.
If you have questions about how to sign or file your bond, call 1 (800) 308-4358 or email customercare@suretybonds.com, and one of our representatives will be happy to walk you through the process.