Short answer: In Louisiana, the premium for a commercial bail bond is set by state law at 12% of the bail amount or $120, whichever is greater, plus certain additional fees set by the state. The premium is non-refundable. On a $10,000 bail, for example, the premium is $1,200 plus fees.
If someone you love was just arrested, you have enough to worry about. Here’s exactly how bail bond pricing works in Louisiana, so there are no surprises.
The 12% rule: set by Louisiana law
Bail bond premiums in Louisiana aren’t set by each company. They’re set by the legislature. Under La. R.S. 22:1443, the premium for a criminal bail bond is 12% of the face amount of the bond, or $120, whichever is greater.
That means:
- Every licensed bail company in Louisiana charges the same premium rate.
- A company advertising “cheaper bail” or a “discount” on the premium should raise a red flag.
- What can differ between companies is how you pay: payment plans, down payments, and collateral requirements.
On top of the premium, Louisiana law allows certain additional state- and court-related fees. Your agent should explain each one before you sign.
Bail bond cost examples
| Bail amount set by the court | Premium (12% or $120 minimum) |
|---|---|
| $500 | $120 (minimum) |
| $1,000 | $120 |
| $2,500 | $300 |
| $5,000 | $600 |
| $10,000 | $1,200 |
| $25,000 | $3,000 |
| $50,000 | $6,000 |
Plus any additional fees allowed by Louisiana law. Call (504) 821-1111 for an exact total for your situation.
Is the bail bond premium refundable?
No. The premium is the fee the bail bond company earns for guaranteeing the full bail amount to the court. It isn’t refunded when the case ends, even if charges are dropped. That’s different from paying the full bail amount in cash directly to the court, which can be returned (minus court costs) if the defendant makes every court date.
What if I can’t pay the full premium right away?
This is where bail companies really differ. At St Tammany Parish Bail Bonds we offer:
- Zero-interest payment plans, so you don’t pay extra to spread the cost out.*
- A 5% down payment on approved credit.*
- No collateral with a working co-signer in many cases.*
Do I need collateral?
Not always. For many smaller bonds, a co-signer with steady income is enough. Larger bonds may require collateral, such as property or a vehicle title. Collateral is returned once the case is resolved and all obligations have been met.
What affects the bail amount itself?
The bail amount is set by a judge or a bail schedule, not by the bail company. It depends on things like:
- the charges
- criminal history
- whether the person is considered a flight risk
Once you know the bail amount, the premium is simple math: 12% (minimum $120) plus fees.
Frequently asked questions
Is bail cheaper at another bail bond company? The premium rate is set by Louisiana law, so it should be the same. Compare payment options and service instead.
Can I pay a bail bond with a credit card? Yes. St Tammany Parish Bail Bonds accepts major credit cards and other payment methods.
What happens to my money if the person misses court? The premium isn’t refunded, and the co-signer can become responsible for the full bail amount plus recovery costs if the person isn’t returned to court. Read Co-Signing a Bail Bond in Louisiana before you sign.
Need an exact quote right now? Call (504) 821-1111, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. ¡Se habla español!
*Payment plans, down payments and no-collateral options are subject to credit approval. This article is general information, not legal advice.
