A 4.26% return has put I Bonds back on many savers’ radar, especially for people who want a safe place for money without watching inflation nibble away at their purchasing power. Through October 2026, new I Bonds earn a composite rate of 4.26%, giving cautious savers a reason to take another look at this often-overlooked Treasury product.
I Bonds will not create overnight wealth or deliver the excitement of a hot stock pick, and that is exactly the point. These bonds focus on steady growth, inflation protection, and preserving money over time, but several rules can trip up buyers who rush in without reading the fine print. Here are five important things savers should know before buying.