Millions of U.S. taxpayers buy municipal bonds and invest in mutual funds and ETFs that own municipal bonds. Municipal bonds provide a way for investors to generate income while investing in infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, schools, as well as other needs in communities across America. This page provides a curated set of educational resources to help investors learn about key things to consider when buying and selling municipal bonds.
Investors considering the purchase of a municipal bond will want to understand the essential terms and features of the bond, which can be found in the bond issue’s official statement, a document prepared by or on behalf of a state or local government in connection with a new issue of municipal securities. It’s also important to evaluate the issuer’s financial condition and performance in its audited financial reports. Investors may also want to understand how municipal bonds are priced, as well as what to expect after they buy a bond.
Are you thinking about buying municipal bonds?
- Use this guide: Ways to Buy Municipal Bonds
- Read Seven Questions to Ask When Investing
Learn about official statements and audited financial reports:
- Read Understanding Official Statements
- Watch this video series:
- What is an Official Statement? (video)
- What's Inside an Official Statement? (video)
- Accessing Official Statements on EMMA (video)
- The Basics of a Municipal Bond Issuer’s Audited Financial Reports
Understand municipal bond pricing:
- How Are Municipal Bonds Quoted and Priced?
- Did I Get a Fair Price?
- Understanding Municipal Bond Trade Prices (video)
