Ask Dr. Don By Don Taylor, Ph.D., CFA • Bankrate.com

I can't find my savings bonds

Dear Dr. Don,
My grandparents bought me savings bonds when I was born. They have since been lost. Is there a way to track them down?
Thanks,
Savings Sherlock

Dear Savings,
The game's afoot! The Bureau of Public Debt's Web site tells you to fill out a Form PD F 1048 listing the approximate issue date, along with the complete names, addresses and Social Security number that appeared on the bond.

If you don't know the serial number or denomination of the bond you should just write "unknown" in the space provided.

Mail the completed form to:

Bureau of the Public Debt
Parkersburg, WV 26106-1328

Your replacement bonds will show the original issue date.

Once the savings bonds have been replaced or redeemed, the original bonds are government property. Should the originals show up, don't try to cash them in. Instead return them to their rightful owner -- the U.S. government.

Savings bonds don't earn interest indefinitely. This guide can help you determine if your bonds have stopped earning interest.