Money Tip

Money tip

Higher energy prices may be pinching consumers’ pocketbooks, but they are also boosting returns on inflation-protected securities. The Treasury Department recently increased the yield on its I Bond savings bond to 6.73 percent from 4.8 percent previously. The bonds’ rates are adjusted every May 1 and Nov. 1 to match inflation. Series EE Savings Bonds, on the other hand, pay a chintzy 3.2 percent.

I Bonds may be purchased at http://www.treasury direct.gov.