AT A GLANCE
What is an ISA?
An Individual Savings Account is a UK tax wrapper for eligible savings or investments. Different ISA types serve different needs and have eligibility and contribution rules. A tax wrapper does not remove investment risk or make every underlying investment suitable.
An Individual Savings Account, or ISA, is a way to hold eligible savings or investments with tax advantages under UK rules. Cash and stocks and shares ISAs serve different needs. Choosing between them starts with your goal, your access requirements and whether taking investment risk is appropriate for you.
What this can help you explore
- Compare cash savings with investing for longer term goals.
- Understand ISA allowances, eligibility and transfer arrangements.
- Coordinate ISAs with pensions and other savings.
Things to consider
Tax treatment and allowances depend on current rules and individual circumstances.
A stocks and shares ISA can lose value; access restrictions and withdrawal rules vary by ISA type.
Your questions, answered.
No. It is an account structure. The cash or investments held inside it determine the returns, risks and access features.
ISA transfers are possible, subject to the providers and account terms. Use the receiving provider's transfer process to help preserve the relevant tax treatment.
Who provides this service?
The provider, applicable permissions, advice scope and terms must be confirmed before you proceed. Regulatory treatment and protections vary by service and product.
Regulatory information