A Florida Health Studio Bond is a mandatory financial guarantee required by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) for gyms and fitness centers that collect payment for services more than 30 days in advance. Under the Florida Health Studio Act, this surety bond - typically set at a $25,000 bond amount - protects members from financial loss if the facility goes out of business or fails to provide contracted services. It is not insurance for the business owner; rather, it ensures that if a gym closes unexpectedly, consumers can file a claim to recover their prepaid membership fees. Proof of this bond is a strict requirement for obtaining and maintaining a valid health studio registration in the state.

Most health studio bonds cost just a few hundred dollars per year. Premiums depend on credit and business history, and we shop the best rates for you.

• $25,000 bond required per location (standard)
• $10,000 bond if contracts total less than $5,000
• Filed with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS)

Some studios operating for 5+ years or offering short-term memberships may qualify for reduced or exempt status.

A Florida Health Studio Bond functions as a binding legal contract between three parties: the health studio owner(Principal), the FDACS (Obligee), and the surety company. Unlike business insurance, which protects your company's assets, this surety bond acts as a line of credit designed strictly to protect the consumer. If your gym closes unexpectedly, declares bankruptcy, or fails to honor prepaid membership contracts, affected members can file a claim with the state. The surety company will investigate and pay out valid claims up to the $25,000 bond amount to reimburse members for their lost funds. However, under the indemnity agreement signed during the application process, the gym owner remains fully liable and must repay the surety for every dollar paid out, plus legal fees.

You need a Florida Health Studio Bond if your business:

• Offers prepaid or long-term fitness memberships
• Collects fees before services are rendered
• Operates as a gym, personal training studio, or wellness center

Contractors working with new studios should also confirm their clients have this bond in place before construction or financing begins.

To get a Florida Health Studio Bond, you must first apply with a licensed surety provider, who will determine your premium rate based on a personal credit review. Once approved, you must file the original bond with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) as part of your initial Health Studio Registration Application (Form FDACS-10300). To renew your bond, you typically do not need to file a new form; instead, you pay your annual premium to the surety company to keep the bond active. You must then submit your registration renewaland the $300 annual fee to FDACS. It is critical to coordinate these payments, as a lapse in your bond coverage will trigger an immediate suspension of your business registration.