Tip #8: Certificates of Deposit (CDs) and Savings Bonds
Certificates of Deposit (CDs) and United States Savings Bonds (such as Series EE and Series I bonds) are popular conservative savings options, yet both count 100% toward the SSI eligibility asset test. Even though redeeming a bank CD early incurs monetary penalties, SSA considers the total account value minus the early withdrawal fee an accessible resource. Similarly, paper or digital U.S. Savings Bonds count as countable resources as soon as they reach their minimum holding period and become eligible for cash redemption. If you hold mature savings bonds or bank CDs, their cash value combines with your regular checking and savings accounts toward the strict $2,000 single or $3,000 married resource cap. Tracking CD maturity dates prevents automatic renewals that might lock up funds or accumulate extra interest, helping you manage your balances smoothly.
