How do I become a bail guarantor? This is probably a question that only a few people ask themselves. Thanks to how it’s often portrayed in popular media, a career in bail bonds is prone to a lot of misconceptions. True, the job has its risks, but it does offer plenty of benefits that make pursuing it worthwhile and even rewarding. Here are the perks of working as a bail bondsman:

• A big potential for high income

Depending on the amount and number of bonds handled, a bail agent can earn more than significant monetary rewards. A part-time agent working in a large city can make as much as, if not more than, a modest full-time job. The Professional Bail Agents of the United States (PBUS) says agents can earn $25,000 to $55,000 on average annually, although some can take home $100,000 or more.

• Employment security

Recessions are bad for most jobs, but not for bail agents. Economic crises and the resulting job loss tend to cause an increase in criminality, which leads to a higher number and amount of bail bonds compared to when the economy is stable. This is why a career in bail bonds is said to be recession-proof.

• An opportunity for self-employment

If you dream of becoming your own boss, then this career can be for you. Understandably, you may need to work under a company when you start. The knowledge and experience you gain you can use to open and manage your own business.

• A dynamic routine

Does repetitive work bore or burn you out? As a bail bondsman, the tasks you need to accomplish every day could be different from the last. There are times when you need to appear in court or meet prospects in jails. You will meet and talk to different people and potentially gain new experiences daily.

• A flexible schedule

Bail agents do not work for a set number of hours. This means that you are free to work as much or as little as you want, especially if you manage your own business. You can decide to work all week or just on specific days. This much freedom means you can even have another job while you pursue your career in bail bonds, increasing your earning potential further.

• An opportunity to help others

Being in jail is hardly an uplifting experience for most people. Being a bail bondsman allows you to offer reliable assistance to clients who are going through very rough times. You can use this as an opportunity to establish uninterrupted communication and provide assurance. It’s highly practical to build a good rapport with your clients, too, as this makes them more likely to honor the terms of their bail.

A career in bail bonds has its share of risks, but it offers plenty of remarkable rewards. If you are looking for a job that pays the bills and more, is not likely to fizzle out when the economy gets tough and offers opportunities to help other people, then this career is right for you.