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Step 1
Determine if your child is old enough to cash the savings bond himself. Minors under 18 can cash savings bond if they are old enough to sign the bond and understand the transaction. While there is no specific age requirement, most banks will only cash savings bonds for children over 14. If your child is old enough, have him sign the back of the savings bond and take it to your local bank. If not, proceed to Step 2.
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Step 2
Go to your local bank or financial institution and explain that you would like to cash a savings bond for a minor child. Show your driver's license or passport to the teller when requested.
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Step 3
Sign the back of the savings bond and write a statement on the back of the bond certifying that you are the parent or legal guardian of the named child. Include the child's age and explain that he is a minor unable to sign on his own.
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Step 4
Write your child's Social Security number and current address on the back of the bond. Your child must have a Social Security number in order for the bond to be cashed.
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Step 5
Receive a check or cash for the value of your child's savings bonds. Most banks will not allow you to cash more than $1,000 in bonds at one time unless you are a regular customer.
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Step 6
Visit the nearest Federal Reserve bank or branch if your local bank refuses to cash the bond. In some cases, banks prefer not to cash savings bonds, even if you follow the steps outlined above. Find your nearest Federal Reserve Bank by visiting the link under Resources. If you live far from the nearest location, you may be able to send the signed savings bonds through the mail and receive a check in return. Ask if your location offers this service.
