How to Buy Series I Savings Bonds

U.S. savings bonds are a low-risk, liquid investment that many people look to when interest rates are low. As with all U.S. savings bonds, I Bonds should be considered a long-term investment as you forfeit some interest if you redeem an I Bond within five years.

Instructions

1. Decide how much you want to invest and whether you want to buy I Bonds online or at your local bank.

2. Collect the following information if buying online: your bank routing number and your bank account number, your driver's license or state ID number and expiration date. Log on to the U.S. Treasury website.

3. Select "Open an Account: Treasury Direct." You can go right to the application or take the guided tour to learn more about U.S. savings bonds, including current rates and other terms of purchase.

4. Create an account, then check your email for verification information. Use the information provided to log in and purchase I Bonds. Select the "Purchase Express" form on the welcome page.

Tips & Warnings

• Paper bonds are available in specific denominations. Online, you can purchase an I Bond in any amount above the specified minimum.

• There are limits to how much you can invest in U.S. savings bonds in one calendar year. Check for current limits on the U.S. Treasury website.

Resources

• Buy U.S. savings bonds through the U.S. Treasury