UK ISA tax and regulation changes

The regulatory landscape for UK Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) is set to undergo significant shifts starting April 6, 2027, following the Autumn Budget 2025.

Key changes include a 22% charge on cash interest earned within ISAs, specifically targeting money market funds (MMFs) classified as cash-like assets. While individual shares, investment trusts, ETFs, and bonds remain unaffected, ISA managers will be responsible for deducting this charge and remitting it to HMRC. Industry representatives, such as PIMFA, have expressed skepticism regarding whether these measures will successfully influence consumer investment behavior.

For savers under 65, the annual Cash ISA subscription limit will be reduced from £20,000 to £12,000. Although the total ISA limit across all types remains £20,000, these individuals will be prohibited from transferring funds from Stocks and Shares or Innovative Finance ISAs into Cash ISAs, effectively requiring them to utilize Stocks and Shares ISAs for any remaining allowance. Savers aged 65 and older will maintain the £20,000 limit.

Additionally, the government plans to replace the Lifetime ISA with a new ‘First Time Buyer ISA’. While the Lifetime ISA has faced criticism for its 25% withdrawal charge and a frozen £450,000 property purchase limit, critics note that the proposed replacement currently lacks sufficient detail. The Treasury is expected to publish final details in the autumn, though industry groups like the Building Societies Association suggest the new Chancellor may face a choice between proceeding with these complex reforms or scrapping them.