BBC Expert Reveals 6 Best ISA Accounts Before £20,000 Allowance Drops

A BBC finance expert has outlined the best ISA accounts for a 'fresh start'. The new financial year started on 6 April, and savers can use cash ISA accounts for up to £20,000 of tax-free savings. This is the last year before the allowance is reduced.
Laura Pomfret explained what people should do and highlighted the most competitive interest rates on BBC Morning Live.
She said it's a fresh start to make the most of your money, and you can utilize £20,000 per person within cash ISA, which is a way of growing your savings tax-free.
Those with savings outside of ISAs must pay tax. Ms Pomfret explained that most people get a personal savings allowance per year, but using an ISA allowance first is better because you can put £20,000 in and not worry about tax on the interest.
Those with ISAs will face a significant change from 7th April 2027. The allowance for a cash ISA will drop to £12,000, except for those 65 or over, who can save into a cash ISA and get another allowance.
The host asked where to save money if possible. Laura Pomfret explained the importance of maximizing the current allowance.
According to the BBC expert, there are six accounts worth considering for 'easy access' savings. The first one is Trading 212 with a 4.6% interest rate.
Other options include Virgin Money with a 4.15% interest rate, but with limited withdrawals. Trading 212's rate drops after the first year.
More options are Bank of Ireland UK with 4.06%, Leeds Building Society with 4.05%, Yorkshire Building Society with 4.05%, and Tesco Bank with 4.02%. These rates change quickly.
She explained that individuals should check comparison websites for terms and conditions, with at least 4% interest being the crucial figure.
Laura Pomfret continued that higher interest rates may be available with fixed rates, but the money will be locked away for a certain period.
If you can afford to put money away and not need access to it, you might get a higher rate with a fixed one or consider stocks and shares or a lifetime ISA.
Ultimately, getting your money in a tax wrapper is a great thing to do so that you can grow your interest tax-free.