Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) are available to all UK residents over 18 years of age, 16 years of age for the Cash ISAs.
They benefit all taxpayers, as any income or capital gains received from investments held within an ISA do not have to be declared to the tax man. ISAs can invest in cash or in stocks and shares (including unit trusts, investment trusts, Open Ended Investment Companies, some fixed interest securities, or any share quoted on a stock exchange recognised by H M Revenue and Customs.) The overall ISA limit has increased to £15,240 for the 2015/16 tax year. Unlike previous years you now have the freedom to contribute a combination of cash or investments up to the limit. For example you could place £2,000 in a Cash and invest the balance of £13,240 in Unit trusts.Junior ISAs
Have a limit of £4,080 2015/16 tax year and are available for parents of children up to the age of 18 There are 2 types of Junior ISA:- a cash Junior ISA – you won’t pay tax on interest on the cash you save
- a stocks and shares Junior ISA – your cash is invested and you won’t pay tax on any capital growth or dividends you receive