What Are EE Bonds?

EE Bonds, also known as Series EE Savings Bonds, are low-risk government-backed savings bonds issued by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. They are designed as long-term investments that earn interest over time and are fully guaranteed by the federal government. Many people buy EE Bonds as part of a savings plan for retirement, education, or future expenses because they offer stability and predictable returns.
How EE Bonds Work
When you purchase a Series EE Bond, you’re lending money to the U.S. government. In return, the government pays you interest on that amount over a fixed period, usually up to 30 years. EE Bonds earn a fixed interest rate set at the time of purchase, which remains the same for the life of the bond.
- Guaranteed doubling – The U.S. Treasury guarantees that EE Bonds will at least double in value after 20 years, even if interest rates are low.
- Interest accrues monthly – Interest is added to the bond’s value every month and paid when you redeem it.
- Issued electronically – All new EE Bonds are purchased through TreasuryDirect.gov.
Purchase Limits & Denominations
EE Bonds are very accessible to individual investors and can be bought in small or large amounts.
- Minimum purchase – $25
- Maximum purchase per year – $10,000 per person
- Purchase method – Electronic only (no longer issued on paper except through tax refunds)
Interest & Redemption
EE Bonds earn interest for up to 30 years, and you can cash them in after the first 12 months. If you redeem them before five years, you lose the last three months of interest as an early withdrawal penalty.
- Interest type – Fixed for the life of the bond
- Interest payments – Added automatically to the bond’s value
- Holding period – Minimum of 1 year, maximum of 30 years
Tax Advantages
EE Bonds offer several tax benefits,
- Interest is exempt from state and local income taxes.
- Federal taxes are deferred until the bond is cashed or matures.
- Interest may be tax-free if used for qualified education expenses under certain income limits.
Who Should Buy EE Bonds
Series EE Bonds are best for conservative investors who want a safe, government-secured way to grow their savings. They’re also a good choice for parents saving for a child’s college education or individuals who prefer predictable, long-term returns without market risk.
EE Bonds are U.S. government savings bonds that earn a fixed interest rate, double in value after 20 years, and offer strong tax benefits. They’re a secure, long-term investment for anyone seeking steady growth with minimal risk.


