So, you’ve heard about the tax benefits of an ISA and are thinking of opening one. But you don’t know who exactly is eligible or even what you need to do to open one. We’ve got the answers to your questions.

What is an ISA?

‘ISA’ stands for Individual Savings Account. It’s a tax-free account in which gains and income are not taxed. Basically, an ISA allows you to invest a limited amount of money (up to £20,000 each tax year) in assets without having to pay tax on the profits you make.

Bear in mind, though, that tax rules can change in the future and their effects on you will depend on your individual circumstances.

There are five main types of ISAs:

• Cash ISA
• Stocks and shares ISAs
• Innovative Finance ISAs
• Lifetime ISAs
• Junior ISAs

Who can open an ISA?

To be eligible to subscribe to an ISA, an investor must be:

• 16 or over for a cash ISA
• 18 or over for a stocks and shares or innovative finance ISA
• 18 or over but under 40 for a Lifetime ISA

Additionally, you must be one of the following:

• A UK resident (the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man don’t count)
• A Crown employee (for example, working for a diplomatic or overseas civil service) or their spouse or civil partner if you do not live in the UK

If you have an ISA and then become a non-resident, you may retain the existing ISA but you cannot take out a new one.

Where can I open an ISA?

You can open an ISA at a wide range of institutions including:

• Banks
• Building societies
• Credit unions
• Stockbrokers
• Friendly societies
• Peer to peer lending services
• Crowdfunding companies

What do I need to open an ISA?

If you are thinking of opening an ISA, your chosen provider will provide you with detailed information on what documentation you need to open an ISA with them. At the very least, you’re likely to need:

• Proof of identity (a full UK passport or a UK photocard driving licence)
• Proof of address
• Your National Insurance number

Can I open more than one ISA?

Yes. There’s no limit on the number of ISAs you can have overall. That said, you can only pay into one of each type of ISA in each tax year. The total amount you put in – across all ISAs – must not exceed your annual ISA allowance of £20,000.

Can I open an ISA with someone else?

No. ISAs can only be taken out by an individual. However, you can pay into someone else’s ISA (or someone can pay into yours) as a gift.

You can also open a Junior ISA for children under 18.

Can I transfer my ISA to another provider?

Yes. If you have already opened and paid into a cash ISA, for example, and see a better rate on the market, you can transfer your ISA savings to the new provider.

However, don’t simply withdraw your money or close your account entirely as then you’ll lose its tax-free status. Instead, ask your provider to arrange the transfer.

To learn more about ISAs, take a look at our top-rated stocks and shares ISAs in the UK and find a good fit for your financial needs.

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