How to Track Lost Savings Bonds

Savings bonds are a worthwhile investment because they are backed by the United States government. Many savings bonds issued today are electronic, but paper copies are still issued and are widely in circulation. Unfortunately, like many other pieces of paper, savings bonds can easily be misplaced or lost. However, the U.S. Treasury Department makes it very easy to track lost savings bonds and request a replacement. The process is easier if you know the serial number of the bonds, but the Treasury also offers an option if you do not have that information.

Instructions

1. Open form PDF 1048 on the U.S. Treasury's website (see Resources below). This is the form titled "Claim for Lost, Stolen or Destroyed United States Savings Bonds." You will need a free version of the Adobe Acrobat reader to open the form. You can type directly into the form.

2. Complete the information requested, including the description of your savings bonds. Be prepared to include the bond's issue date, face value, serial number, and your name and social security number. Check the box marked "lost" and answer the questions listed about the circumstances surrounding the lost bonds.

3. Decide whether you would like substitute bonds or for the Treasury Department to pay you for the value of the bonds by check or direct deposit. If you would like payment, enter the address you would like the check mailed to or your banking information for direct deposit.

4. Print out the form and take a copy to your local bank and ask for their certifying officer. The certifying officer will look at your identification, such as a driver's license, and watch you sign the form. The certifying officer will then sign the form to indicate he has verified your identity.

5. Mail the form to the West Virginia address listed on the bottom of the form. When the Treasury receives your form, they will enter the serial numbers in their database to track the location of your missing bonds. If someone else cashed the bonds, they will be able to see who cashed the bonds and when they were cashed. As long as they can determine that you did not already cash the bonds, the Treasury Department will reimburse you with replacement bonds, a check or direct deposit.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not have the serial number of your savings bonds, write a letter to the Treasury Department explaining your situation, providing as much information on the bonds as you can. Request that they track the bonds with the information you provide. Send the letter to: Savings Bonds Parkersburg, WV 26106-7012 In the future, always record the serial number of your savings bonds in a safe place.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Treasury Direct: Form PDF 1048