How Do I Redeem a Patriot Bond?

Patriot Bonds are U.S. Savings bonds with the words "Patriot Bond" printed across the bond.

A Patriot Bond is a U.S. savings bond with the words "Patriot Bond" printed across the top. Patriot Bonds function exactly the same as regular Series EE savings bonds. The Treasury started issuing Patriot Bonds in December 2001. Patriot Bonds can only be purchased through such financial institutions as banks. Savings bonds purchased through payroll deduction plans will not be Patriot Bonds.

Instructions

1. Check the date of issue for your bond to make sure it is at least one year old. Patriot Bonds cannot be redeemed in the first year of issue. If the bond is less than five years old, there will be an interest penalty if it is redeemed.

2. Take the bond, plus some form of picture identification, to your local bank. Most banks will cash savings bonds on the spot with picture ID.

3. Sign the bond in the presence of the bank officer, and supply your social security number and address if they are not correct on the bond. The bank will cash up to $1,000 worth of savings bonds at that time.

Tips & Warnings

• If the value of your Patriot Bond is greater than $1,000 you must go to a bank where you have an established bank account --- open at least six months --- to cash the bond immediately.

• If you do not have a local banking relationship, the bank will verify your signature on a bond worth more than $1,000, and then you must mail the bond to the U.S. Treasury for redemption by mail. The Treasury will send you a government check for the value of the bond.

• Patriot Bonds, like all paper series EE bonds, are purchased for one-half the face value. The bonds earn interest to grow towards the face value. Your Patriot Bond may be worth significantly less than the value printed on the bond.

References

• Treasury Direct: The Patriot Savings Bond
• Treasury Direct: Redeem EE/E Bonds and Savings Notes