By Daily Crux Editor Justin Brill:

According to the Treasury Department, Americans own almost $17 billion in matured U.S. savings bonds.

Though the bonds never expire, they do mature and stop accruing interest, meaning there's no reason not to cash them in if you need them. According to the Treasury's website, TreasuryDirect.gov bonds that have reached maturity include Series E bonds issued from May 1941 through September 1979, Series H bonds issues from June 1952 through September 1979, and Series HH bonds issued from January 1980 through September 1989.

You can find out more information, check the value of your bonds, and even redeem some newer bonds at TreasuryDirect.gov.

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