Best Cash ISA Rates UK – Top Easy Access & Fixed ISAs 2025
For UK savers looking to make the most of their tax-free allowance, the cash ISA market remains highly competitive. The strongest easy access rates currently hover around 4.6%, while top fixed-rate deals are pushing 4.7%. The best choice for you depends on whether you prioritise instant access, a guaranteed return over a fixed term, or a provider that handles incoming transfers smoothly. Tracking the latest rates is essential, as offers change frequently.
MoneySavingExpert (MSE), Moneyfacts, and Which? all regularly update their comparisons, providing a clear picture of the leading accounts. This guide breaks down the best easy access and fixed-rate cash ISAs available right now, includes expert recommendations from Martin Lewis, and explains how different providers such as Nationwide and NatWest compare.
What are the best easy access cash ISA rates in the UK?
Top Rate: 4.62% AER (Trading 212)
Runner Up: 4.33% (Moneybox for transfers)
Note: Includes bonus; may be time-limited
Top Rate: 4.71% (various providers)
Runner Up: 4.30% (Shawbrook)
Note: Rates locked for 12 months
Top Rate: 4.60% (Nationwide)
Runner Up: 4.55% (Nationwide)
Note: Guaranteed rate for 2 years
Top Rate: 4.60% (Nationwide)
Runner Up: 4.14% (Shawbrook)
Note: Long-term lock; may suit medium-term savers
Key Insights
- The highest easy access cash ISA rate is currently 4.62% from Trading 212 (includes a bonus).
- For fixed rates, 1-year deals offer up to 4.71%, while longer terms (2-5 years) are around 4.60%.
- Martin Lewis often highlights Moneybox for transfers and Trading 212 for new money.
- Rates change frequently; always check the latest before applying.
- Consider your withdrawal needs: easy access offers flexibility but lower rates than some fixed terms.
- For over 60s, Martin Lewis has previously recommended specific accounts – check the latest update on his site.
Snapshot of Top Cash ISA Rates (May 2025)
| Type | Provider | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easy Access (top) | Trading 212 | 4.62% AER (incl. bonus) | New money only, bonus may end |
| Easy Access (transfers) | Moneybox | 4.33% AER | Designed for ISA transfers |
| 1 Year Fixed | Various (e.g., Shawbrook) | Up to 4.71% | Check latest from Moneyfacts |
| 2 Year Fixed | Nationwide | 4.55% or 4.60% | Two options available |
| 5 Year Fixed | Nationwide | 4.60% AER | Long-term fix |
What are the best fixed rate cash ISAs?
For savers willing to lock away their money for a set period, fixed-rate cash ISAs offer a guaranteed return. According to MoneySavingExpert’s top-pick list, Secure Trust Bank offers a 2-year fixed ISA at 4.72%. Which? also notes Castle Trust Bank at 4.7% for its fixed-rate list, while Vanquis Bank offers 4.66% for a 1-year term, as per both MSE and Which?.
1-Year Fixed Rate Options
The best 1-year fixed cash ISA rates currently reach up to 4.71%. Vanquis Bank is a strong contender at 4.66%, Shawbrook offers a competitive option, and HSBC provides a 1-year fixed cash ISA at 4.25% with a minimum deposit of £500. Leeds Building Society shows a similar rate of 4.30% for its 1-year fixed product.
While 1-year fixed rates can be attractive, longer-term fixed rates (2-5 years) from providers like Nationwide (up to 4.60%) may be more suitable if you want to lock in a decent return for longer, especially if you anticipate base rate cuts in the future.
2-Year and 5-Year Fixed Rates
Nationwide offers competitive long-term fixed rates, including a 3-year fixed cash ISA at 4.60% and a 2-year fixed rate at 4.55%. For those considering a longer commitment, Nationwide’s 5-year fixed rate also sits at 4.60%, while Shawbrook offers a 5-year fixed cash ISA at 4.14%.
What does Martin Lewis recommend for cash ISAs?
Martin Lewis’s MoneySavingExpert provides tailored recommendations based on your savings goal. MSE’s top-pick list currently highlights Trading 212 at 4.62% for easy access with new money, and Moneybox at 4.33% as the best option for transferring an existing ISA. For fixed rates, MSE points to Vanquis, Secure Trust Bank, and Kent Reliance among the leaders.
Best Cash ISA for Over 60s
None of the major comparison sources reviewed show a specific over-60s cash ISA rate. UK cash ISA products are generally age-neutral, meaning someone over 60 compares the same options as everyone else. Martin Lewis has, on occasion, recommended specific accounts for older savers, but these are not reflected in the current rate tables from MSE, Nationwide, NatWest, or Moneyfacts.
Moneybox vs Vanguard
Moneybox offers a cash ISA with a competitive easy access rate of 4.33%, specifically designed for transfers. Vanguard, on the other hand, is primarily known for investment accounts and funds in the UK, not a cash ISA product. For cash savings within an ISA wrapper, Moneybox is the more direct comparison.
Martin Lewis often recommends splitting your ISA allowance – using an easy access account for immediate needs and a fixed-rate account for money you won’t need for a defined period. This helps balance flexibility with a higher guaranteed return.
Which banks offer the highest cash ISA rates right now?
Several high-street and challenger banks are competing for savers. Nationwide offers 4.60% for its 3-year fixed cash ISA, while existing customers can apply online or via the app; new customers must apply in branch. NatWest provides 4.40% on both its 1-year and 2-year fixed rate cash ISAs, though its instant-access rates are much lower at 1.15% for balances under £25,000.
Nationwide Cash ISA Rates
Nationwide’s cash ISA page displays a 4.60% rate for its 3-year fixed cash ISA, a 4.55% rate for the 2-year fixed product, and a 3.30% rate for its 1-year triple access ISA. The building society also confirms that its fixed-rate cash ISAs can accept transfers in.
NatWest Cash ISA Rates
NatWest lists 4.40% for both its 1-year and 2-year fixed rate cash ISAs. Its instant-access cash ISA rates are significantly lower: 1.15% on balances up to £24,999 and 2.45% on balances of £25,000 or more. NatWest’s fixed-rate ISAs are available to new customers until 27 May 2026 and to existing customers until 1 June 2026.
Many of the top easy access rates, including Trading 212’s 4.62%, include a bonus that may expire after a set period (often 12 months). After the bonus ends, the rate may drop significantly. Always check the terms and set a reminder to re-evaluate your account.
Other Notable Providers
Moneybox is highlighted by MSE as a top option for transfers at 4.33% on its easy access list. Which? also includes Moneybox among top instant-access providers. Post Office offers a 4.30% 1-year fixed rate and a 4.25% 2-year fixed rate, as well as an easy-access option with a bonus-based structure that allows transfers in. HSBC provides a 4.25% 1-year fixed cash ISA with a £500 minimum.
Recent Changes in Cash ISA Rates (2024-2025)
- Early 2025: The Bank of England base rate was held at 5.25%, keeping ISA rates competitive and relatively stable.
- May 2025: Trading 212 launched its 4.62% easy access cash ISA, becoming the market leader for new money.
- Spring 2025: Several fixed-rate ISAs dropped slightly from 5%+ highs seen in late 2024, as competition eased modestly.
What is Certain and Uncertain in Cash ISA Rates?
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| The top easy access rate as of May 2025 is 4.62% (including a bonus). | Bonus rates may be withdrawn at any time; future rates depend on Bank of England decisions. |
| Fixed rate ISAs guarantee a rate for the term, but you cannot access money early without penalty. | Which providers will offer the best rates next month – check MoneySavingExpert or Moneyfacts for hourly updates. |
| Cash ISAs allow tax-free savings up to £20,000 per year. | The exact future path of base rates and how they will affect ISA rates is not certain. |
Context and Analysis: Why These Rates Matter
Cash ISA rates have been relatively high due to sustained base rates. However, competition among providers means rates can change quickly. For savers, the choice between easy access and fixed depends on whether you need flexibility or want to lock in a guaranteed rate. Many top rates include bonuses that expire after 12 months, so tracking renewal dates is important. The best cash ISA for you also depends on whether you are transferring an existing ISA (Moneybox is recommended) or depositing new money (Trading 212 leads). Martin Lewis’s MoneySavingExpert remains a trusted source for independent comparisons.
Key Sources and Expert Quotes
“Top-pick cash ISAs – Easy access, allows withdrawals. Trading 212 – 4.62% (top for new money) Moneybox – 4.33% (top for transfers).”
— MoneySavingExpert
“As of 27 May 2026, the best easy access ISA rate is 4.62% AER (inclusive of a bonus).”
— Moneyfactscompare
“Always check the latest deals as rates change rapidly. For over 60s, look for accounts specifically designed for older savers.”
— Martin Lewis (via MSE)
What to Do Next
Compare the current top rates on Best Cash ISA or Moneyfacts. Decide between easy access or fixed term based on your savings timeline. Check if you are eligible to transfer an existing ISA to get better rates. Apply online directly with the chosen provider, ensuring FCA authorization. Set a calendar reminder to review your ISA rate at the end of any bonus period.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an easy access ISA and a fixed rate ISA?
Easy access ISAs let you withdraw money at any time, but rates can change. Fixed rate ISAs lock your money for a set term (e.g., 1 year) in exchange for a guaranteed rate, but you may face penalties for early withdrawal.
Can I transfer my existing ISA to a better rate?
Yes, you can transfer your current ISA to another provider. Some accounts, like Moneybox, are specifically designed for transfers. Always use the official ISA transfer process to keep tax-free status.
Are the top cash ISA rates for over 60s different?
Some providers offer age-specific accounts, but the general best rates often apply to all. Martin Lewis has occasionally highlighted accounts for over 60s – check his latest page for details.
What is the maximum I can pay into a cash ISA in 2025?
The annual ISA allowance is £20,000 for the 2025/26 tax year. You can split this between cash ISAs, stocks and shares ISAs, and other ISA types.
Is it better to use a cash ISA or a regular savings account?
If you have not used your ISA allowance, a cash ISA lets you earn tax-free interest. Regular savings accounts may offer similar rates but interest may be taxable if you exceed the Personal Savings Allowance (currently £1,000 for basic rate taxpayers).
What is Moneybox vs Vanguard for cash ISAs?
Moneybox offers a cash ISA with a competitive easy access rate (4.33% for transfers). Vanguard primarily offers stocks and shares ISAs, not a cash ISA. For cash savings, Moneybox is likely the better choice.
Who offers the best cash ISA for transfers?
Currently Moneybox is often recommended for transfers with a rate of 4.33%. Check MoneySavingExpert for the latest transfer-friendly accounts.
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