Options to Pay Your Bond

If you have been charged with a crime, you may be eligible for bail or bond. However, what happens if you are unable to pay for it or paying bond represents a financial hardship? The good news is that there are still options to help you get out of jail while your case is being contested.

First, you may be eligible for a 10 percent bond. This means that you only have to put up 10 percent of the amount that you need to get out of jail. If your bond was $10,000, you would only have to give the bondsmen $1,000. If your bail was $1,000, you would only be liable for $100. 

When paying bond presents an especially undue financial hardship for an individual, it may be possible to ask that the amount of bail be lowered. In the event that a judge has the discretion to do so, a reduction may help you get the money you need to earn your temporary freedom.

There is no limit to how many people can pitch in and provide your bond. It may be possible to ask a large group of friends or relatives to each put in a few dollars for your cause. Money could be raised by selling items or getting a loan from a bank. While not necessarily ideal, owing a friend or other lender money is generally preferable to spending a night or longer in jail.