How to Get an Immigration Bond Refund

For numerous immigrants, encountering ICE detention can be an extremely distressing event. It's not unusual for some of these tens of thousands of individuals to stay in custody for extended periods, sometimes weeks or even months. 

However, some detainees may be set free on bond, a financial assurance that they’ll be released until their immigration court hearing occurs. Many people might not know that, under specific conditions, the bond money given to ICE can be eligible for a bond refund. 

However, if you’ve ever tried to get one, you might know that the procedure can be complex and time-consuming. That’s what we’re here to help you with. We believe that by learning how to secure bond refunds, we can alleviate the financial strain on detainees and their families. Here’s what to know.

What is an Immigration Bond?

An immigration bond is a money paid to free a detained foreign person. This money promises the government that the person will attend all their immigration court hearings.

How is the bond set?

When someone from another country gets arrested, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) decides how much the bond should be. They look at how dangerous the person is and if they might try to run away. If the person can pay the bond, they get released. If not, they can ask an immigration judge to lower the amount.

Getting an Immigration Bond Refund

If you or someone you know has been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and had to pay an ICE bond, you may wonder how to get your money back if the bond has been paid in full. Follow these step-by-step instructions on obtaining a refund of your immigration bond, or contact us for more information about the bond refund process.

Determine If You’re Eligible For A Refund

Unfortunately, some people aren't eligible for bond refunds. Typically, this includes those who were released on their own recognizance or deported before their hearing. However, if your case was closed and the bond has been paid in full, you are likely eligible for a bond refund (if you're unsure, contact us to chat about your case).

Collect Necessary Documents

To apply for a bond refund, you will need to have certain documents ready, including:

• The original bond receipt
• A copy of the bond receipt
• Proof of payment

You'll also need to submit proof of identification for whoever put up the immigration bond money.

Fill Out the Proper Paperwork

You'll need to fill out form I-391, Application for Disposition of Immigration Bond or Requisite. This form is used to request a bond refund. Fill out the form completely, ensuring all the necessary information is included.

Mail the Form & Necessary Documents

After you have filled out form I-391 and collected all necessary documents, mail them to the appropriate address. This address can be found on the Department of Homeland Security website.

Wait For The Refund

After your application for a bond refund has been received, it can take up to several months to process. You will receive a check for the bond amount if everything is in order. Don't receive your bond refund money?

If a bond agent posted your bond, the bond refund will be sent directly to the person who paid the bond, not the bond agent. Additionally, if the bond was paid by someone other than the person detained, such as a family member or friend, the refund will still be sent to the person who originally paid the immigration bond money.

Work with ACTION

Need help getting a bond refund? Choose ACTION Immigration Bonds & Insurance Services for expert, trustworthy, and fast immigration bail bond assistance. With over 40 years of experience, our knowledgeable and confidential team is available 24/7 to provide swift service.

Contact us today for help with your immigration bond requirements, and let our dedicated staff guide you through the process. Get a free consultation by clicking the link or call us at 877-674-6483.