D2D Fund

President Announces New Savings Bond Policy  

In his September 5, 2009 address to the nation, President Obama announced that beginning in January 2010, all Americans will be able to purchase U.S. Savings Bonds by checking a box on the tax form. The President announced this and other savings initiatives in his weekly video address. D2D and its partners are thrilled about this innovation that is especially important for the lower income families we serve. Along with the President, we are certain that this kind of change will give a much-needed boost to saving as the nation begins the long climb to recovery.  Read more...

Increase the Accessibility & Appeal of Savings Bonds

• Clarify emergency redemption policies – more explicit terms for when a bond may be redeemed before its required holding period would increase buy comfort
• Exclude from means-tested benefits – for many lower income families, access to public assistance is critical; saving money in bonds shouldn’t jeopardize this safety net.

Maintain & Build Awareness of Savings Bonds

• Restore marketing budget – since 2003 Congress has approved no money to market Savings Bonds, allowing 70 years of bond promotions and brand building to wither away.
• Re-brand around families / gifting – D2D research suggests family imagery and messaging can connect powerfully with first time and lower-income savers.

Offer Incentives to Buy Savings Bonds

• Expand Saver’s Credit – allowing savings bond buyers to qualify for the Saver’s Credit for Retirement Contributions is a direct, simple way to provide a financial incentive for working people to buy bonds.
• Consider Series "R Bonds" – a new series of bonds, offered at a discount and only available at tax time to income-eligible filers (EITC eligible, for instance), would provide a simple, targeted and accessible incentive to invest in savings bonds.