Series I savings bonds — 'I bonds' — are U.S. Treasury bonds whose interest rate adjusts with inflation, so your purchasing power is protected. They're low-risk and bought directly from the government at TreasuryDirect.gov. This is educational information, not advice.
I Bonds (Series I Savings Bonds)
A low-risk, inflation-linked place for some of your safe money.
No sign-upNo lender referralsNo spamNo data sharingNo credit check
Advertisement
How they work
An I bond's rate combines a fixed rate (set at purchase, held for the life of the bond) and an inflation rate that resets every six months. Interest is added to the bond value and is exempt from state and local tax; federal tax can be deferred until you cash out.
The rules to know
There's an annual purchase limit per person (commonly $10,000 electronically), you can't cash out in the first 12 months, and cashing out before 5 years forfeits the last 3 months of interest. That makes I bonds better for money you can leave alone for a while — a complement to, not a replacement for, an emergency fund.
Educational information only — not investment advice, and not a recommendation to buy any security. Expense ratios are approximate and can change; verify with the fund issuer. We are not a licensed financial advisor.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I buy I bonds?
Directly from the U.S. Treasury at TreasuryDirect.gov. They aren't sold through brokers.
Are I bonds a good investment?
They're low-risk and inflation-protected, useful for safe savings you won't need for at least a year. This is educational information, not advice.
More investing guides
Best Low-Cost Index ETFs for Long-Term InvestorsThe Three-Fund PortfolioVTI vs VOOHow to Start InvestingIndex Funds vs ETFsDollar-Cost AveragingRoth IRA vs 401(k)Target-Date FundsEmergency FundCompound Interest ExplainedHigh-Yield Savings AccountsAsset AllocationDividend InvestingHealth Savings Account (HSA)529 College Savings PlansBonds ExplainedThe 4% Rule (Safe Withdrawal Rate)Roth Conversions ExplainedNet Worth: Your Financial Scorecard