You can buy savings bonds directly from the U.S. Treasury through TreasuryDirect, or through a bank or broker
The easiest way to buy U.S. savings bonds is through TreasuryDirect, the Treasury Department's online platform. You create an account, link a bank account, and purchase bonds electronically. Series EE and Series I bonds are available this way, and the bonds are held in digital form — you never receive a paper certificate.
If you prefer to work with a financial institution, you can also buy savings bonds through most banks and brokers. They handle the purchase on your behalf and charge a small fee. Some people choose this route if they already have a relationship with a bank or want a person to talk to during the process.
Paper savings bonds are no longer sold by the Treasury, though older paper bonds issued before 2012 are still valid and can be redeemed.
Key Takeaways
- TreasuryDirect is free and requires only an online account linked to a checking or savings account.
- Banks and brokers can sell you savings bonds for a fee, which typically ranges from $25 to $100 per transaction depending on the institution.
- You must be at least 18 years old to buy bonds through TreasuryDirect; minors can own bonds if an adult custodian sets up the account.
- Series EE and Series I bonds are the two types available for purchase; you choose which one when you buy.
- Bonds are purchased in denominations starting at $25 and can be bought in any amount above that in $1 increments through TreasuryDirect.
Setting up a TreasuryDirect account
To buy bonds through TreasuryDirect, go to treasurydirect.gov and select "Open an Account." You will need a Social Security number, a valid email address, and a U.S. bank account (checking or savings). The site will ask you to create a username and password and verify your identity through a few security questions.
Once your account is open, you link your bank account for purchases and redemptions. The Treasury transfers money from your account to buy the bonds, and later transfers the redemption amount back to the same account when you cash them in. The whole setup takes about 15 minutes.
If you want to buy bonds for a minor, you set up a custodial account. You remain the account owner and manage the bonds until the child reaches age 18, at which point they can take over the account.
Buying through banks and brokers
Most major banks — including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase — sell savings bonds to their customers. You typically visit a branch, speak with a banker, and place an order. The bank purchases the bond from the Treasury on your behalf and charges you a fee, usually between $25 and $100 depending on the bank and the bond type.
Brokerages like Fidelity and Charles Schwab also sell savings bonds. The process is similar: you log into your brokerage account, place an order, and the firm handles the purchase. Brokerage fees vary, so it is worth calling ahead to ask what they charge.
One advantage of buying through a bank or broker is that the bonds can be held alongside other investments or accounts you have there. A disadvantage is the fee — if you are buying a small bond, the fee eats into your return.
Minimum purchase amounts and denominations
Through TreasuryDirect, you can buy Series EE bonds in any amount from $25 to $10,000 per calendar year, in $1 increments. Series I bonds have the same $25 minimum and $10,000 annual limit. You can buy both types in the same year if you want — the $10,000 limit applies to each type separately.
If you are buying through a bank or broker, the minimum purchase amount depends on the institution. Some banks require a minimum of $25 or $50; others may have higher minimums. Call your bank to ask before you go in.
The annual purchase limit resets on January 1 each year. If you buy $10,000 in Series EE bonds in December, you can buy another $10,000 in January.
What you need to bring or provide
For TreasuryDirect, you need your Social Security number, a valid email address, and online access to your bank account so you can verify it. You do not need to print or sign anything — everything happens on the website.
If you are buying through a bank branch, bring a photo ID and your Social Security number. The banker will fill out the paperwork with you. If you are buying through a brokerage, you will need to log into your account online and provide the same information you used when you opened the account.
If you are buying a bond for someone else as a gift, you will need their Social Security number as well. The bond will be registered in their name.
How long the purchase takes
Through TreasuryDirect, the purchase is when ready once you confirm it on the website. The money is deducted from your bank account within one to three business days, and the bond appears in your account right away. You can start earning interest when ready.
At a bank or broker, the timeline depends on the institution. Some complete the purchase the same day; others take one to three business days. Ask when you place the order so you know when to expect the bond to appear in your account.
Once you own the bond, you can hold it for as long as you want. Series EE bonds reach final maturity after 30 years; Series I bonds after 30 years as well. You can redeem them anytime after one year, though redeeming before five years means you lose the last three months of interest.
Comparing TreasuryDirect to banks and brokers
| Feature | TreasuryDirect | Bank or Broker |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | $25–$100 fee per purchase |
| Minimum purchase | $25 | Varies; typically $25–$50 |
| Annual limit | $10,000 per bond type | $10,000 per bond type |
| How you buy | Online only | Online, phone, or in person |
| Account setup time | 15 minutes | Varies; can be same day |
| Bond form | Digital only | Digital only |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy savings bonds for someone else?
Yes. Through TreasuryDirect, you can buy a bond and register it in someone else's name — for example, as a gift for a child or grandchild. You will need their Social Security number. At a bank or broker, you can also purchase a bond in someone else's name; ask the banker how they handle the paperwork.
What happens if I forget my TreasuryDirect password?
You can reset it on the login page by clicking "Forgot your password?" The site will send a reset link to your email address. If you cannot access your email, you can call TreasuryDirect customer service at 844-284-2676 and they will help you regain access to your account.
Can I buy savings bonds with a credit card?
No. TreasuryDirect requires a bank account (checking or savings) for purchases and redemptions. Banks and brokers also typically require a bank account or existing investment account. Savings bonds are not sold through credit card payments.
Is there a difference in interest rate between buying through TreasuryDirect and a bank?
No. The interest rate is the same regardless of where you buy. The only difference is the fee — TreasuryDirect charges nothing, while banks and brokers charge a transaction fee. The bond itself earns the same rate of return either way.
Can I buy savings bonds on behalf of my business?
TreasuryDirect accounts are for individuals only. Businesses can buy Treasury securities through a broker or bank, but savings bonds specifically are sold only to individuals. Talk to your bank about other Treasury options if you are buying for a business.