Treasury Bill: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition

Definition & Meaning

A treasury bill, often referred to as a T-bill, is a short-term debt instrument issued by the U.S. government. It is sold at a discount to its face value, meaning investors pay less than the amount they will receive upon maturity. Treasury bills have maturities of one year or less and are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. Additionally, they are exempt from state and local taxes, making them an attractive investment option.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: An investor purchases a treasury bill with a face value of $1,000 for $950. When the bill matures in six months, the investor receives the full $1,000.

Example 2: A state government may invest in treasury bills as a safe way to manage surplus funds, ensuring liquidity while earning interest. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Description
Treasury Bill A short-term debt obligation issued by the U.S. government with a maturity of one year or less.
Treasury Note A longer-term debt obligation with maturities ranging from two to ten years.
Treasury Bond A long-term debt obligation with maturities of more than ten years.
Savings Bond A non-negotiable bond issued by the U.S. government, typically purchased at face value and redeemed at face value.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering investing in treasury bills, start by researching current T-bill offerings and their maturities. You can use legal forms from US Legal Forms to guide you through the purchase process. If you have complex investment needs or questions, consulting a financial advisor or legal professional may be beneficial.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Issuer U.S. Department of the Treasury
Maturity One year or less
Tax Status Exempt from state and local taxes
Purchase Method Sold at a discount

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A treasury bill has a maturity of one year or less, while a treasury bond has a maturity of more than ten years.