How to claim a lost, stolen or destroyed bond
- Gather what you know. Serial numbers and issue dates help most. Also note the names and Social Security numbers of the owners, the face values and the approximate purchase dates. Copies, old bank records or a list someone kept are all useful.
- Fill out FS Form 1048 (Claim for Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed United States Savings Bonds).
- Sign it in front of a notary or a certifying individual, as the form requires.
- Mail it to the address on the form.
What you get back
- Replacement: a replaced EE or I bond becomes an electronic bond in TreasuryDirect, so you'll need a TreasuryDirect account.
- Cash: or you can ask Treasury to cash the bond instead.
- The usual 12-month minimum holding period applies. Treasury may waive it if the loss came from a disaster.
If you find the bond later
Once Treasury replaces or pays a bond, the original belongs to the U.S. government. If it turns up, send it to Treasury Retail Securities Services, P.O. Box 9150, Minneapolis, MN 55480-9150.
Damaged bonds
Mutilated or damaged bonds (torn, burned, water-damaged) are handled the same way, as a claim. Keep every piece you have.
Bonds of someone who died
If the bonds belonged to someone who has died, read inherited savings bonds first. Who can file depends on whose names are on the bonds and how the estate is being settled.
Sources: TreasuryDirect, Treasury Hunt notice; TreasuryDirect, lost, stolen or destroyed bonds.
Common questions
Is Treasury Hunt still available?
No. Treasury retired Treasury Hunt on September 30, 2025. Claims for lost, stolen or destroyed bonds are now made with FS Form 1048.
Do I need the serial numbers?
They help a lot, but gather whatever you have: owner names, Social Security numbers, face values and approximate issue dates.
Will I get a paper bond back?
No. A replaced EE or I bond is issued as an electronic bond in TreasuryDirect, or you can ask for it to be cashed instead.