A bail bond is a contract between multiple parties that secures a defendant’s release from custody by guaranteeing the courts a pre-determined amount of money for non-appearance. A “Bail Bond” is sometimes referred to as a “Surety Bond.” The surety is responsible for paying the courts if the Bond Company defaults on any non-appearances.

What happens if the defendant misses his or her court date?

The defendant is obligated by the bail agreement to appear at every court date required by the court. Failure to do so results in the forfeiture of the bail bond. If the cosigner fails to act immediately, additional expenses such as tracing fees, court costs, recovery fees, and attorney fees may apply.

What information do I need when I call?

We’ll need information on both the defendant and the cosigner. For the defendant: jail location, full name, date of birth, bond amount, and charges. For the cosigner: city of residence, employment history, and date of birth. Even if you don’t have all the information, we can guide you through what’s needed.

How long will this take?

The required paperwork generally takes less than 10 minutes. Once the bond is posted, release times vary depending on the county. Contact us for county-specific information.

Will I need collateral?

Most bonds do not require collateral. Depending on the bond size, charge, and cosigner’s credit or work history, we can often secure release without significant collateral.

Do you take payment plans?

Yes. Depending on your credit history and the bond size, we can create flexible payment plans for nearly any situation. Give us a call for a free consultation.

Will I get my money back after my friend or family member is done with court?

No. The premium paid on a bail bond is earned once the defendant is released from custody. The bail bond premium works similarly to insurance premiums — it is non-refundable.

Holiday Gifts You Can Send to a Loved One in Jail

When someone you care about is spending the holidays in a Minnesota or North Dakota jail, the season feels different for everyone involved. You want them home. They want their freedom. And while securing a bail bond is the most meaningful way to reunite—something our team is ready to help with throughout MN and ND—you can still make their holiday brighter even if release isn’t possible right now.

County jail mail rules in Minnesota and North Dakota are strict, detailed, and updated often. Following the right steps ensures your letters, photos, and approved gifts actually reach your loved one.

What You Can Send: Holiday-Appropriate and Allowed in MN & ND Jails

Send a thoughtful holiday letter.
Letters remain one of the most reliable ways to stay connected in the Midwest jail system. Share family updates, holiday plans, and comforting memories. Minnesota and North Dakota jails often limit what you can enclose, so keeping the focus on heartfelt writing always works.

Confirm the correct facility details and inmate ID.
Jails across MN and ND—including Hennepin, Ramsey, Clay, Cass, Ward, and others—require precise addressing. Before sending anything, verify:
• The current mailing address
• Your loved one’s inmate number
• Any facility-specific restrictions
Policies change frequently, especially in smaller county jails.

Check what’s allowed inside an envelope.
Most MN and ND jails accept:
• Standard letters
• Approved 4×6 photos
• Newspaper clippings
Most do not accept:
• Stamps
• Blank stationery
• Stickers
• Extra envelopes
If an item isn’t approved, the whole envelope may be rejected.

Include your full return information.
Both states’ facilities often require your name and address on the envelope and inside the letter.

Send paperback books—using an approved vendor.
Books still make excellent holiday gifts, but Midwest jails maintain tight control:
• Paperbacks only
• Shipped directly from a recognized bookstore
• Receipt included
Barnes & Noble remains one of the most reliable vendors for MN and ND facilities.
Hardcover, spiral-bound, or used books will almost always be denied.

Add holiday commissary funds.
A deposit into your loved one’s commissary account helps them purchase snacks, hygiene items, writing supplies, and sometimes additional phone time. In many Minnesota and North Dakota jails, commissary funds are processed quickly during the holidays.

Send approved photos.
Both MN and ND jails typically allow 4×6 prints. Label each one with the inmate’s name and ID number. Holiday family photos can bring real comfort during a difficult time.

What You Should Avoid Sending (Based on 2025 MN & ND Jail Policies)

No glitter, holiday stickers, or decorative cards.
These are rejected in almost every Minnesota and North Dakota jail.

No scented stationery or perfume.
Anything with added scent is treated as contraband.

Avoid prohibited content.
Letters containing explicit material, violence, coded messages, or negative commentary about facility staff are often withheld.

Don’t send books through Amazon to facilities that reject them.
Several MN and ND jails continue to refuse Amazon books due to inconsistent receipts inside packages.

Don’t include unapproved items, even small ones.
If it isn’t clearly allowed, assume it will be held back or discarded.

Supporting Your Loved One This Season

Even inside the strict mail systems used in Minnesota and North Dakota, there are plenty of ways to send warmth, connection, and a little holiday brightness. A meaningful letter, a few photos, or a commissary deposit can help your loved one feel remembered and supported.

And if coming home for the holidays is possible, A-Affordable Bail Bonds is ready around the clock throughout MN and parts of ND. Freedom is the best holiday gift, and we’re here to help make it happen.

From all of us, we wish you a safe, hopeful, and peaceful holiday season. Reach out anytime if you need help bringing someone home.

From all of us at A-Affordable Bail Bonds, have a safe and happy holiday! We look forward to helping you or loved ones obtain freedom any way that they can this holiday season and throughout 2021.

Let us know if we can help you with anything!