1. Ask for the license number. Every bail agent in California must hold an active license from the California Department of Insurance. Any legitimate agent will give you the number without hesitation, and you can verify it yourself on the CDI website in about a minute.
2. Understand the premium. In California, the bail premium is a filed rate — typically 10% of the bail amount — and it is not refundable, because it is the fee for the service. On a $50,000 bond, that is $5,000. An agency quoting you dramatically less than the filed rate is a warning sign, not a bargain.
3. Get the payment plan in writing. Most agencies offer plans. What varies is the down payment, the schedule, and whether interest is charged. Ask for all three in writing before you sign, not after.
4. Know what co-signing means. If the defendant misses court, the bond can be forfeited and the co-signer may be responsible for the full bail amount — not just the premium. This is the single most important line in the paperwork. Read it.