How to Obtain List of Deceased Husband's Savings Bonds
The U.S. Treasury Department can help you find your deceased spouse's bonds.
Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
Dealing with death is difficult for anyone, especially if the deceased is a spouse. His death was probably unexpected, and if your spouse did not have all of his financial affairs in order, it is your responsibility to discover his debts and assets. As long as your spouse's assets are legally yours, the Department of Treasury can help you find his Savings Bonds. As long as you have your spouse's Social Security number and death certificate, you can have the bonds reissued or redeemed.
Download Public Debt Form 1048 from the Treasury Direct website.
Step 2Enter a description of the bonds. Provide as much information as possible. At a minimum, provide your spouse's Social Security number.
Step 3Check the box labeled "Lost" and answer the questions in the "Details of the Loss" section.
Step 4Answer "No" to the question, "Are You Named on the Bonds" and indicate that you are the surviving spouse.
Step 5Skip to Part 5 and indicate whether you want the Treasury Department to send you substitute bonds, payment in full by check or payment by direct deposit.
Step 6Enter your address if you opted to receive substitute bonds or a redemption check. Enter your bank information if you opted to receive payment by direct deposit.
Step 7Sign the form. Enter your address and Social Security number.
Step 8Make a copy of your spouse's death certificate and your marriage certificate.
Step 9Take all three documents to an authorized certifying officer, such as a notary public, who will verify your identity and stamp Form 1048.
Step 10Mail Form 1048 and the marriage certificate and death certificate copies to the Treasury Department.
References
Resources
Tips
- To get just a list of your deceased spouse's Savings Bonds, use the Treasury Hunt tool on the Treasury Direct website.
- The Treasure Hunt tool is limited to bonds issued after 1974.
- If the Treasury Department does not transfer the bonds into your name automatically, you will have to file Public Debt Form 5336 after you receive the replacement bonds.
Writer Bio
Angela M. Wheeland specializes in topics related to taxation, technology, gaming and criminal law. She has contributed to several websites and serves as the lead content editor for a construction-related website. Wheeland holds an Associate of Arts in accounting and criminal justice. She has owned and operated her own income tax-preparation business since 2006.