A Missouri Surety Bond is a binding agreement between three parties: the Principal (the party who needs the bond), the Surety (the party who issues the bond) and the Obliged (the party receiving the protection of the bond). The Principal is required to adhere to all laws, regulations, and contractual obligations. If the Principal fails to fulfill their obligations, the Obliged is protected by the bond and can make a claim against it. The most common type of Missouri Surety Bond is a Contract Bond, which is required to guarantee completion of a specific contract. Other types of Missouri Surety Bonds include License and Permit Bonds, Public Official Bonds, Fiduciary Bonds, and Court Bonds. Each type of bond serves a different purpose, but all are designed to protect the Obliged and provide security in the case of default or breach of contract.