$17 billion--yes, we said $17 BILLION.  That's how much money is sitting in matured and not yet redeemed U.S. Savings bonds--bonds that are sitting there earning NOTHING!

If you are one of those holders of these bonds--what are you waiting for? 

Are you so wealthy that you couldn't use a little cash?

Now, we understand that some of you are unwilling to redeem matured bonds because you'll have taxes to pay on the interest they earned through the years. 

But tax avoidance could end up costing you more in the end.

Remember that debate that's going on in Washington about the debt ceiling?

You know the current Shakespearean question of "to raise or not to raise."

Well, even though it's likely that our gutless politicians will probably cave and raise the limit, let's just suppose that the Republicans find their backbones and decide to call the Democrats' bluff.

Then the Administration will have to prioritize what to pay and what not to pay and the ratings agencies will have to make good on their threat to lower the U.S. credit rating.

Where do you think you'll fall in the pecking order when China demands its money back? 

Even if you're still willing to sit back and let your money earn nothing, don't think your money is safer there than invested elsewhere.

Every day that the U.S. digs itself deeper into debt, the dollars that your savings bonds represent erode in value because the dollar sinks lower and buys less. 

Face it, folks.  The U.S. government is now a riskier investment than many stock mutual funds.

So, get off the stick and demand your money TODAY while the Fed's still printing dollars to pay you!

To check if your U.S. Savings Bonds are mature, visit www.treasuryDirect.gov

For more smart money moves, see our article: Bonds 101

Read More In: Family & Money Invest Wisely