Where Is the Serial Number on a Savings Bond?

Savings bonds represent a secure investment where individuals lend money to the U.S. government, earning interest over time. Each savings bond, whether held in paper or electronic form, possesses a unique identifier known as a serial number. This serial number serves as a reference point for managing the bond throughout its life. It is essential for various actions, including tracking ownership, determining current value, initiating redemption, or addressing any issues that may arise. Without this identifying sequence, accessing information or performing transactions related to a savings bond becomes significantly more challenging.

Locating the Serial Number on Paper Savings Bonds

For physical paper savings bonds, such as Series EE or Series I bonds, the serial number is typically printed directly on the certificate. This alphanumeric code is most commonly found in the bottom right-hand corner of the bond. It usually consists of a combination of letters and numbers, often appearing in a distinct color, such as red ink, to make it stand out.

The serial number is a unique 10-digit code. While the primary location is the bottom right, some older bond series might have the serial number placed along the border or in the upper sections. When examining a paper bond, look for the longest sequence of numbers and letters, as this is typically the serial number. Keeping a record of this number in a safe place, separate from the bond itself, is a prudent measure for future reference.

Locating the Serial Number on Electronic Savings Bonds

Electronic savings bonds, which are purchased and held through the TreasuryDirect website, do not have a physical serial number like their paper counterparts. Instead, these bonds are recorded digitally within your TreasuryDirect account. The system assigns an electronic identifier to each bond, which functions similarly to a serial number for record-keeping and transaction purposes.

To locate the details of your electronic savings bonds, you must log into your TreasuryDirect account. After logging in, navigate to the “Current Holdings” or “ManageDirect” section. From there, you can view a list of your electronic securities. Selecting an individual bond will display its specific details, which include the electronic identifier that serves as its serial number within the digital system.

Steps If the Serial Number Cannot Be Found

If you are unable to locate the serial number for a paper savings bond, several official resources can assist in recovering the information. The U.S. Department of the Treasury provides tools and processes to help bond owners find their records. This assistance is particularly useful if the bond certificate is lost, stolen, or damaged.

One primary resource is the Treasury Hunt tool, available on treasuryhunt.gov, which can help locate matured, uncashed savings bonds, especially those issued since 1974.

Additionally, you can initiate a formal inquiry by submitting FS Form 1048, “Claim for Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed United States Savings Bonds,” available on the TreasuryDirect website. When completing this form, provide the bond owner’s name, Social Security Number, approximate issue date, and the bond’s denomination.

The Bureau of the Fiscal Service can also be contacted directly for guidance at 844-284-2676. These steps are designed to help you retrieve the bond’s identifying information, not to replace a physical bond or initiate a redemption.