I have I bonds in a gift box that we’re supposed to go to a family member.  Sadly that family member has passed away. Unfortunately when I purchased the bond, I did not name myself as the beneficiary. 

So I guess I’m wondering what happens? As far as I understand there’s no way for me to cancel or turn in the bond.  Is there any option for me to recoup my money?  Thanks
I'm sorry for your loss. Regarding your situation, the laws can vary and the bonds might need to go through the deceased's estate. Here are general steps you could consider:

1. **Proof of Death**: Collect all the necessary documentation, including the death certificate of the deceased family member.

2. **Legal Representation**: If a legal representative has been named in the deceased's will, they have the ability to handle such matters. If there is no will or named executor, one might need to be appointed by the court.

3. **Contact the Treasury Department**: Once the legal representative has been established, the next step is to contact the U.S. Department of Treasury's Bureau of the Fiscal Service. They have procedures in place to handle these situations. Usually, they require a completed FS Form 5336 (Claim for Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed United States Savings Bonds). 

4. **Additional Documentation**: You may need to provide additional paperwork, such as proof that you were the original purchaser of the bonds.

5. **Transfer or Redeem the Bonds**: Once the legal representative has provided the necessary paperwork, the Treasury Department can then reissue the bonds, or they can be cashed in.

This is a general guideline and may not cover all scenarios. It is always a good idea to consult with an attorney or a financial advisor to understand the specific procedures related to your situation.
### Human
I have I bonds in a gift box that we’re supposed to go to a family member.  Sadly that family member has passed away. Unfortunately when I purchased the bond, I did not name myself as the beneficiary. 

So I guess I’m wondering what happens? As far as I understand there’s no way for me to cancel or turn in the bond.  Is there any option for me to recoup my money?  Thanks

### Assistant
I'm sorry for your loss. Regarding your situation, the laws can vary and the bonds might need to go through the deceased's estate. Here are general steps you could consider:

1. **Proof of Death**: Collect all the necessary documentation, including the death certificate of the deceased family member.

2. **Legal Representation**: If a legal representative has been named in the deceased's will, they have the ability to handle such matters. If there is no will or named executor, one might need to be appointed by the court.

3. **Contact the Treasury Department**: Once the legal representative has been established, the next step is to contact the U.S. Department of Treasury's Bureau of the Fiscal Service. They have procedures in place to handle these situations. Usually, they require a completed FS Form 5336 (Claim for Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed United States Savings Bonds). 

4. **Additional Documentation**: You may need to provide additional paperwork, such as proof that you were the original purchaser of the bonds.

5. **Transfer or Redeem the Bonds**: Once the legal representative has provided the necessary paperwork, the Treasury Department can then reissue the bonds, or they can be cashed in.

This is a general guideline and may not cover all scenarios. It is always a good idea to consult with an attorney or a financial advisor to understand the specific procedures related to your situation.<eos_token>