Savings bonds intended for education in 2020 not used due to Covid

[philmworks]

Can I still exclude interest from EE Savings Bonds that were cashed with the intent to be used for my son's Education, but couldn't be used in 2020 due to Covid?   They will be used in 2021 as my son and the institution will be open.

They were left to me by my recently deceased grandmother that have long been matured.

Thank you.

[Hal_Al]

I'm not aware of any special covid rules for US Savings Bonds for Education.  The 2020 issue of Pub 970 states: "If the total you receive when you cash in the bonds isn't more than the adjusted qualified education expenses for the year, all of the interest on the bonds may be tax free. 

But, you question is academic.  Inherited Savings bonds are not eligible. From Pub 970:

 "A qualified U.S. savings bond is a series EE bond issued after 1989 or a series I bond. The bond must be issued either in your name (as the sole owner) or in the name of both you and your spouse (as co-owners).

The owner must be at least 24 years old before the bond's issue date. "

[philmworks]

Thanks for the answer.  The word "Inherited" in this case is not totally the case.  The bonds have always been in my name POD of my grandmother.  The bonds do not cover everything needed for tuition, but is a nice portion of it for at least this year.

Not sure if that changes anything.

[Hal_Al]

Your name as POD  does not qualify for the education provision.  You must have been the original owner or co-owner.