Savings bonds are debt securities issued by the U.S. Treasury that you purchase at a set price and hold until maturity, earning interest over time. People buy them for different reasons: some want a safe place to store money with may provide returns, others use them for long-term savings goals, and some purchase them as gifts. This section answers the questions people most often ask about how savings bonds work, what types exist, and what happens when you cash them in.
The articles here explain the mechanics of savings bonds—how interest accrues, what the purchase and redemption process looks like, and how the tax treatment differs from other savings vehicles. You'll learn about the main types available, the rules around holding periods, and what you need to know before deciding whether a savings bond fits into your financial picture.