July 14th, 2011 | 
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Savings bonds can be lost, stolen, or they can be destroyed. There are some events that are simply beyond our control. For instance, a house fire can wipe out everything, including savings bonds. If this happens, they can be replaced without a fee and the process is the same for any series of savings bond.
The first thing you need to do is fill out form 1048, which can be acquired through the Treasury Department. The form allows you to fill in the issue date, the amount, and the bond number. If you do not know the bond number, then you need to fill out as much identifying information as possible. It can be virtually impossible to know the bond number when the bonds are gone. That is why it is a good idea to record the numbers in a secure location in case you ever need to find them for some reason.
In the form, you also need to specify whether you need replacement bonds, payment for their value by check, or if you wish to have the value of the bonds deposited in your checking account.
The form is quite easy to fill out. All you need to do is answer all of the questions on the form and include as much information as possible. If you have had the bonds for a while, some of this information can be difficult, but just provide it to the best of your knowledge. If other questions come about, then you will be asked in order to clarify any information that needs to be clarified. This can prolong the process, but it is worth it in order to get your money and replace your bonds.
Things to keep in mind
When providing information about the missing bonds, you need to be mindful of a few things. For instance, the social security number on the bonds may belong to the individual who bought the bonds if they were a gift. So if your mother bought the bonds for you, you need to include that information. You can include that information in a separate letter and provide it with the form. Sometimes it takes several sheets of paper to provide all of the identifying information.
Once you finish the form, you will need to take it to a financial institution that takes care of savings bonds. This is so your signature can be certified. This means you need to bring some identification with you.
When the treasury department receives the form, they will refer to the bonds in their books and ensure they have not been cashed. If they determine they have not
Posted in Government Bonds | 
Tags: Checking Account, Form 1048, Lost, Missing Bonds, Money, Savings Bond, Savings Bonds, Social Security Number