What is a U.S. Saving Bond?
They are a non-marketable security meaning you cannot buy or sell them unless you are an authorized issuing and redeeming agent designated by The US Treasury Department. They are also considered a registered security - which means that the person or persons named on the bond owns them.
Who Issues Them?: The US Treasury issues Savings Bonds.

Why people buy bonds:
There are several reasons why Americans buy Savings Bonds.  Often safety is cited as a primary reason.  Savings Bonds are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government, therefore, the principal and interest will never be lost due to changes in the financial markets.

Savings Bonds are also free from ALL state and local income taxes.  You can also defer federal income taxes on the earnings if you wait until the bond reaches final maturity or when you cash it in. You can invest as little as $25 (and even smaller amounts from Payroll Deductions Plans), so it is an easy way for Americans to save. Some Savings Bonds are even entirely Federal Income Tax Free if used for Educational Purposes. Learn more about Education Bonds.

Where to buy bonds:
Currently there are three typed of bonds for sale: EE, I, and the Patriot bond (first issued on December 11, 2001 - the 3 month anniversary of the WTC/terrorist attacks) - following all the same rules and regulations of an EE bond. Read our "10 Things You Should Know About The Patriot Bond" Report for more about the Patriot Bond.

In the past, you could only purchase Savings Bonds at your local bank, but with the wave of popularity growing, Savings Bonds are now also available via the internet. Looking to buy bonds online? Click Here.