Contractor Credit Program from Empire State Brokerage Services LLC
Empire State Brokerage Services LLC offers the Contractor Credit Program (CCP) in partnership with Upper Hudson National Insurance Company. CCP is a specialty bonding and working-capital program built to help hard-to-place contractors—particularly those who don’t meet traditional underwriting thresholds because of credit scores or limited financial history.
Ideal Accounts and Appetite
This program is designed for contractors who have the experience and track record to complete work but are often overlooked by standard markets because of personal credit, limited bonding history, or thin financials. Typical fits include:
- Small to mid-size general contractors and subcontractors
- Construction professionals with limited or no prior bonding
- Contractors with low or no credit scores
- Startups or recently formed firms with experienced principals
If you represent a contractor who consistently delivers quality work but cannot qualify for bonds through traditional markets, CCP provides an alternative placement path.
Coverage Highlights and Advantages
CCP combines bonding capacity with working capital to help contractors perform and bid on projects they might otherwise lose. Key features include:
- Bond limits: Up to $1.5M per project, $3.0M aggregate
- Credit score: No minimum required
- Net worth: No minimum financial threshold
- Indemnity: Standard indemnity agreements required
- Funds control: Managed via deductions from requisitions as progress payments are made
- Cash advances: Working capital advances available—up to 90% of requisitions
- Agent commissions: Competitive structure, with full credit on follow-up bonds and renewals
Underwriting is performed by professionals with construction industry backgrounds, so accounts are evaluated on project capability and practical experience—not solely on credit scores.
Underwriting Notes and Minimum Premiums
There is no stated minimum credit score or net worth requirement, making CCP accessible to a broader range of clients. Standard indemnity is required. Minimum premiums may vary by account; the program is structured to remain competitive while reflecting the increased underwriting attention required for non-standard risks.
Territories and Availability
CCP is available in CA, GA, HI, IL, LA, MD, MO, NJ, NY, PA, and WA. The program is offered on a non-admitted basis in most available states.
Why Work With Empire State Brokerage Services LLC
Empire State Brokerage Services LLC is an experienced excess & surplus lines broker focused on specialty contractor placements. Partnering with Upper Hudson National Insurance Company, they offer flexible, construction-focused underwriting and responsive service aimed at helping agents place difficult accounts.
Use CCP when you need bonding plus working capital for clients who can perform the work but lack traditional credit or balance-sheet strength. The program streamlines bonding decisions by combining industry knowledge with practical funds-control and advance options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of contractors are a good fit for this program?
Small to mid-sized contractors with experience and the ability to complete projects—but who may have low credit scores or limited financial history—are ideal candidates.
Can new contractors or startups qualify?
Yes. Principals must demonstrate relevant construction experience and the ability to complete the job; new entities can qualify when ownership and experience support the account.
Is a minimum credit score required?
No. Credit score is not a primary eligibility factor for CCP.
Are working capital advances available?
Yes. Enrolled contractors may qualify for advances of up to 90% of requisitions to improve project cash flow.
Which states is this program available in?
The program is currently available in CA, GA, HI, IL, LA, MD, MO, NJ, NY, PA, and WA.
Need help placing an account? Connect with a market specialist.