ERISA Bond vs. Fidelity Bond: What Is the Difference?
An ERISA bond is a specific fidelity bond protecting an employee benefit plan against covered fraud or dishonesty by plan-property handlers. A general fidelity or crime bond may not meet ERISA’s rules unless its terms do.
“ERISA bond” usually means the fidelity bond required by ERISA § 412 when a person handles plan funds or other property, subject to statutory exceptions. DOL says the plan must be protected against losses caused by fraud or dishonesty and gives requirements concerning eligible sureties, covered persons, and limits. “Fidelity bond” or “crime insurance” can refer more broadly to contracts protecting a company or another named party, so the name alone does not establish compliance.
Check that the employee benefit plan is the protected party, all required handlers and plan assets are within the bond, and the amount meets the current rules for each plan. Review exclusions, deductible terms, surety eligibility, and any exemption relied on. Ask the issuer or broker to confirm in writing that the form is intended to satisfy ERISA § 412 for your plan’s facts.
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Sources
- Understanding Your Fiduciary Responsibilities Under a Group Health Plan. U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration; Who Is a Fiduciary?; What Is the Significance of Being a Fiduciary?; Bonding. Accessed 2026-09-25.
- Field Assistance Bulletin No. 2008-04: Guidance Regarding ERISA Fidelity Bonding Requirements. U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration; Q2 pp.2–3. Accessed 2026-09-25.
- Management and Professional Liability Insurance. Travelers; Select a product: D&O, EPL, ERISA fidelity insurance and fiduciary liability insurance. Accessed 2026-09-25.
