Where and How to Find Bonds in Your Name

It is common for individuals to seek out information regarding bonds that may be held in their name, particularly when dealing with forgotten accounts, inherited assets, or misplaced documentation. These financial instruments, representing a loan made by an investor to a borrower, can sometimes become separated from their owners over time. Locating such assets requires a systematic approach, often involving a review of personal records and engagement with various financial and governmental entities.

Bonds Held with Financial Institutions

When searching for bonds held through brokerage accounts, investment portfolios, or retirement plans, the initial step involves gathering all available personal financial records. This includes old account statements, trade confirmations, annual tax documents such as Form 1099-B or Form 1099-INT, and any correspondence from past or present financial advisors or institutions. Organizing these documents by institution and year can help identify potential holding entities and account numbers.

Once a list of possible financial institutions or advisors is compiled, contact their customer service departments. Be prepared to provide identifying information such as your full legal name, Social Security Number, and any relevant account numbers or approximate dates of when the accounts might have been active. Most institutions have procedures for locating historical account information.

Upon establishing contact, request a detailed statement of all past and present holdings associated with your identity. This can often be accessed through secure online portals or provided via mail. Review these statements carefully to identify any bond holdings, their type, CUSIP numbers, and current market values.

Lost or Missing U.S. Savings Bonds

Locating lost or missing U.S. savings bonds, such as Series EE, HH, or I bonds, involves a specific process managed by the U.S. Treasury. To initiate a search, gather as much detail as possible about the original owner, including their full name, Social Security Number, and approximate purchase dates of the bonds. Knowing the serial numbers or purchase amounts can expedite the process.

For electronic savings bonds or to manage inquiries for paper bonds, the TreasuryDirect website serves as a primary resource. Paper savings bonds that are lost, stolen, or destroyed often require the submission of FS Form 1048, “Claim for Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed U.S. Savings Bonds,” which can be downloaded from the TreasuryDirect website or requested by mail.

Accurately complete FS Form 1048 with all known details, including the original owner’s information, bond denominations, and purchase dates. The form may require notarization, depending on the value of the bonds and the specific circumstances of the claim. Submit the completed form via mail to the address specified in the form’s instructions.

Unclaimed Property Databases

Bonds, along with other financial assets, may eventually be turned over to state unclaimed property offices if they remain dormant for an extended period. This “unclaimed property” includes forgotten accounts, uncashed dividends, or matured bonds where the owner cannot be located. To search these databases, it is helpful to have full legal names, any previous addresses, and even maiden names or aliases that the owner may have used.

A comprehensive search for unclaimed property can begin with the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) website, MissingMoney.com. This centralized search tool allows you to check multiple state databases simultaneously by entering your name and other identifying information. However, some assets may only be listed on individual state unclaimed property websites, making it prudent to also check specific states where the bond owner previously resided or conducted business.

If a match is found, the process to initiate a claim typically involves submitting an online claim form or mailing a physical claim form to the respective state’s unclaimed property division. You will generally need to provide proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or state ID, and documentation demonstrating your right to the property, which could include original bond certificates or probate documents for inherited assets.