What is a Coupon Bond? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

A coupon bond is a type of bond that has interest coupons attached to it. Each coupon represents a payment of interest that the bondholder can collect. These bonds are negotiable and unregistered, meaning that the interest and principal are payable to whoever holds the bond, regardless of the original issuer. Typically, the holder submits a coupon to the issuer or a paying agent to receive interest payments, which are usually made semi-annually. Coupon bonds are becoming less common as registered bonds gain popularity.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A corporation issues a coupon bond with a face value of $1,000 and an interest rate of 5%. The bondholder receives $50 every six months until maturity, when they receive the principal amount back.

Example 2: An investor purchases a coupon bond from a government agency, allowing them to collect interest payments while holding the bond until it matures. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Key Differences
California Specific regulations on bond issuance and interest rates.
New York Additional disclosure requirements for corporate bonds.
Texas Different tax implications for bondholders.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Registered Bond A bond registered in the owner's name, with interest paid directly to them. Unlike coupon bonds, registered bonds do not have physical coupons and are tracked by the issuer.
Zero-Coupon Bond A bond that does not pay periodic interest but is sold at a discount to its face value. Zero-coupon bonds do not have interest payments; instead, they mature at a higher value.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering investing in coupon bonds, it's important to understand the terms and conditions associated with them. Review the bond's details carefully and consider using US Legal Forms to access templates for bond agreements. If you have specific legal questions or need assistance, consulting a financial advisor or legal professional is advisable.

Quick facts

  • Interest payments: Typically semi-annually
  • Negotiability: Yes, they can be bought and sold
  • Tax implications: Varies by state
  • Issuer types: Corporations and government entities

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A coupon bond is a bond with attached interest coupons that the holder can redeem for periodic interest payments.