Series EE savings bonds issued May 1, 2026 through April 30, 1997, earn interest based on market yields for Treasury securities. Each May 1 and November 1, Treasury announces two savings bond rates. The Short-Term Rate is applied to bonds for the first five years they are held. The Long-Term Rate is applied to bonds from five years through 17 years. Bonds will continue to earn interest from 17 years through 30 years at the rates then in effect.

Series EE bonds earn the short-term rates for the first five years. The short-term rate is 85% of the average of six-month Treasury security yields. A new rate is announced each May 1 and November 1. The May 1 rate reflects market yields during the preceding February, March, and April. The November 1 rate reflects market yields during the preceding August, September, and October.

Series EE bonds earn the long-term rates from five years through 17 years. The long-term rate is 85% of the average of five-year Treasury security yields. A new rate is announced and becomes effective each May 1 and November 1. The May 1 rate reflects market yields during the preceding November through April and the November 1 rate reflects market yields during the preceding May through October.

The announced short- or long-term rate, as appropriate, applies to the first semiannual earning period for a bond beginning on or after May 1 or November 1. The earnings from the rate will be reflected in the bond's value six months later. See Market-Based Savings Bond Rates for the actual rates.

Interest will be added to the value of your bonds every six months. Bonds will increase in value six months after purchase and every six months thereafter. For example, a bond bought in June will increase in value on December 1 and on each following June 1 and December 1. When you cash your bonds, you'll receive the value of the bonds as of the last date interest was added. If you redeem your bonds between dates on which they increase in value (accrue interest) you will not receive interest for the partial period.

See also:

How EE/E Earn Interest
EE/E Bought Before May 1995
EE/E Bought May 1997 or After
Market-Based Rates
When Bonds Stop Earning Interest
When Bonds Increase in Value

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