The federal government's TreasuryDirect.gov website is the only place online where you can buy and redeem U.S. savings bonds . You can also use TreasuryDirect to purchase securities such as Treasury bills , notes and bonds, as well as Treasury inflation-protected securities (TIPS) .

Recently, TreasuryDirect introduced changes to how its users access their online accounts. Last year, it discontinued a tool for tracking down unredeemed bonds. And those who request certain services may face a months-long wait for the Treasury to complete the task.

Here's what you should know.

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