When is collateral under a surety bond typically returned?

The correct answer reflects the typical process associated with surety bonds. Collateral is generally returned upon discharge of the bond, which means that once the obligations of the bond have been fulfilled or the bond is no longer in effect, the collateral can be released back to the principal. This discharge often occurs when the underlying duty that the bond guarantees has been completed satisfactorily or when the bond term has ended without claims.

In contrast, there are specific conditions tied to the other options which make them less applicable. For example, returning collateral immediately after issuance would not account for the time needed to ensure that the bond's obligations are met, and would not provide assurance to the surety that risks are adequately covered. Similarly, the end of a contract may not align with the bond fulfillment, as it is possible for claims or liabilities to arise even after a contract has ended. The timing of the premium payment is unrelated to the conditions for returning collateral, as the payment itself does not signify the fulfillment of the bond's obligations. Therefore, the discharge of the bond is the point at which the collateral is appropriately returned.