Series

• The first savings bonds, including Series A, B, C and D bonds, were issued prior to U.S. involvement in World War II and were commonly called baby bonds. None of thes bonds has paid interest since April 1951. The first Series E bond was sold in May 1941. The last Series E bonds ceased earning interest in 2010. Other series of savings bonds have included Series F, G, H, HH, J and K. As of July 2011, the U.S. Treasury still issued Series EE and Series I savings bonds.
  
  

Series EE, Series E and Series I

• Most banks in the U.S. are authorized to redeem Series EE, Series E and Series I savings bonds, according to the Treasury Direct website. Some banks may only redeem savings bonds for individuals who have maintained an active account with the bank for at least six months. Banks may redeem savings bonds for non-account holders with proper identification, such as a state-issued driver's license. Identification requirements may vary from bank to bank. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recommends contacting your bank prior to attempting to redeem your savings bonds to insure you have the proper identification documents.
  
  

Bonds in Your Child's Name

• Any citizen or resident of the U.S. can own a U.S. savings bond regardless of their age. Unlike most securities, children who are minors may own U.S. savings bonds in their own name. If your child needs to redeem a savings bond that is in her name, but she is too young to sign the required request for payment, you can redeem the bond for her provided you have legal custody of the child or the child lives with you. Your bank will require the same identification as if the bond belonged to you. In addition you must endorse the back of the bond with a statement similar to - "I certify that I am the parent of Jane Doe with whom Jane Doe resides (or to whom legal custody has been granted). She is 7 years old and is not of sufficient understanding to make this request. John Doe on behalf of Jane Doe."
  
  

Non-resident Citizens

• If you are a U.S. citizen and reside outside the U.S. you likely can redeem your savings bonds at a local branch of a U.S.-incorporated bank by presenting the bond along with documentation, such as a valid passport that establishes your identity. Not all such banks will redeem U.S. savings bonds, so the Treasury Direct website recommends contacting the bank first to determine whether it can complete this type of transaction.