We’ve been reporting on the twice-per-year I Bond rate releases. Via Tipswatch, the new rate for November 2025 through April 2026 is projected to be 4.02%, slightly higher than the May-Oct 2025 rate of 3.98%. More important is the breakdown: The new rate is comprised of 3.12% variable rate (confirmed), plus an estimated/projected .90% fixed rate.
I Bonds Nov 2025 – Apr 2026
What this means:
If you already own I Bonds and keep them, you’ll get just 3.12% interest rate for the six month rate period of November 2025 through April 2026 (plus whatever your fixed rate is from a previous buy, which for some people is zero).
If you buy new I Bonds between November 1, 2025 and April 30, 2026, you’ll likely get around 4.02% for the first six months (3.12% variable + 0.90% fixed). After the six months is over, you’ll get the 0.90% fixed rate added to whatever the future variable rates are at the time.
For comparison sake: the current rate which runs May 2025 through October 2025 is 3.98% – that comes from a 1.10% fixed rate and 2.88% variable rate.
Our Verdict
Someone looking to hold longer term would want to buy before the end of October and lock in the better 1.10% fixed rate (versus the upcoming projected 0.90% fixed rate).
Don’t forget about the 3-month penalty for those who withdraw in less than 5 years. While 4.02% isn’t a bad rate currently – especially given the state tax exemption on I Bonds and treasuries – if you lose a chunk of it to the 3-month penalty the rate isn’t as interesting.
List of Past I-Bonds Rates
For context, here is a review of past I Bond rates that many of us bought into:
