We often notice that most people don’t realize you can bail someone out of jail—via bail bond—with a credit card. We often work with families and friends of inmates in Dallas County Jail and other detention facilities throughout Collin County (and Fort Worth); this seems to be a forgotten method. However, you can bail someone out of jail with a credit card, and without a credit check. While this sounds a bit too good to be true, it is in fact practiced—but not commonly. While there are very few bail bondsmen in Texas that accept credit cards as a form of payment (much less without a credit card check), Dallas and Fort Worth are home to one that does—A-EZ Out Bail Bonds.
In the past, most bail bondsmen—companies, and agents—refused to accept credit cards, only accepting cash, checks, or money orders. However, as credit card use increases in popularity throughout the years (and the fact that many Americans don’t have large savings accounts), many realized that taking credit cards was actually a good thing for business. Despite that, however, many bail bondsmen—whether large or small—were found to rarely accept credit cards. This is due to the bail bond industry being considered a high risk business; this means bail bond agents pay higher fees when accepting credit cards (compared to other businesses).
No Credit Checks
However, at A-EZ Out Bail Bonds you can always pay for a bail bond with a credit card (they accept most major cards). Additionally, they understand that financial struggles are common—they don’t want someone to stay in jail because they couldn’t afford it. This is why they’re the only bail bond company in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Collin County that always accept credit card payments—without conducting any prior credit checks. This is unprecedented in the bail bond industry, as it ensures anyone can be approved for a bond to get someone out of jail as soon as possible.
A-EZ Out Bail Bonds differs because they’re operated by regular people, for regular people. Being in Dallas and Collin County, they know how expensive it is to get out of jail, and do everything they can to make sure their services are accessible and affordable.
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Be Critical of Certain Bondsmen
Most bail bond agents turn to taking collateral, or tangible items—like jewelry, cars with titles, and other valuables—if you don’t have a way to pay for a bail bond. While this type of collateral indeed benefits the bail bondsman, it doesn’t allow you to negotiate for better rates or affordable options.
This cold behavior perhaps further feeds into the negative stereotype of the typical bail bondsman: selfish, and profit-driven. Furthermore, bail bonds companies are considered high risk due to the higher-than-average rate of chargebacks (and larger transaction sizes). Additionally, since bail bondsmen are expected to be licensed and follow regulatory requirements, it makes the process complex.
Bail bond companies who do accept credit card payments typically do not directly pass along fees card processors charge. Instead, they charge an overall fee—which is 10% of the total bond—for their services. Before you take your credit card to the bail bondsman, there are a few things you need to do first.
Gather Information
In most cases, a defendant’s bail is set at 10% of the total bond posted by the judge. Since the defendant is detained, a family member or friend pays that amount to free that person from detainment and incarceration.
If you are the person paying to get your friend out of jail, it’s important to take note of the following:
- The terms of the bond: find out exactly how much you should pay, who you should pay, and what happens if your friend doesn’t show up for their court date. You can find this information by calling either the Dallas County Jail (214-761-9025), or Dallas Police Department.
- Who is responsible: find out who is responsible if your friend disappears or does not show up to court. By going through a bail bondsman, the person signing the paperwork and paying for the bail is typically responsible. If the defendant doesn’t show up to court and can’t be found, you will have to pay for their bond expenses. However, if this happens, the bail bondsman may choose to instead go to the family of the defendant; it depends on the situation.
- How the bail is set: Know exactly how much you’re paying compared to the total bond set. It’s good to read about local court practices, and familiarize yourself with how judges set a bond. Understand that if a judge considers a defendant a flight risk (or likely to flee), the judge may either set the amount at a staggering level (almost virtually impossible), or deny it altogether. If this is the case, there’s nothing that can be done about getting your friend out of jail.
If your friend does fail to appear in court, and their family can’t locate them or pay, you may find yourself in a tough situation. However, the good news is that the flee rate is very low, and even rare in Texas. However, it’s always good to make sure you’re making the right decision—know the risks, payoffs, and your friend’s commitment.
RELATED: Should You Bail Them Out of Jail: Things to Consider
A-EZ Out Bail Bonds Works
If you think that your friend will comply with the terms of bail and follow the law, using a credit card with A-EZ Out Bail Bonds is the right choice. It’s understandable that being in this situation is stressful, and that’s why A-EZ Out Bail Bonds makes sure everyone can rest easy knowing they don’t have to worry about the money upfront. They make sure everyone can finance a payment plan with a credit card so they can continue their lives—with their wallets intact.
Additionally, they offer a wide range of affordable payment plans and amenities for those without credit. Their professional agents are available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns you may have, and get your friend out of jail. Call their office today to schedule a free consultation, or simply walk in and receive expert advice without one.
Do you know someone in jail right now? Regardless of your credit history, give us a call—let’s get them out today.