The best ISA rate right now depends on the type of ISA you want (cash ISA vs. stocks and shares ISA) and whether you want instant access or a fixed term. Here’s a concise snapshot of current options as of November 2025, based on recent roundups from major comparison sites and provider pages: Direct answer
- Instant-access cash ISAs: top rates are roughly around 4.5% AER/Tax-free, with several providers offering around 4.5% to 4.6% for easy-access accounts. These can be competitive if you want withdrawals at short notice. Note that exact rates vary by £1–£24,999 balance tiers and whether interest is paid monthly or at maturity.
- 1-year fixed-rate cash ISAs: top deals hover around 4.25% to 4.30% AER, with typical minimum deposits of £100–£500. These locks in higher rates for a fixed term but restrict access until maturity.
- 2-year and longer fixed-rate cash ISAs: top fixed rates commonly sit in the high 3%s to low 4% range (e.g., ~4.0%–4.3% AER), depending on term length and provider. Longer terms typically require larger deposits and have penalties for early withdrawal.
- Stocks and Shares ISAs: rates aren’t fixed like cash ISAs, since performance depends on the underlying investments. If you’re seeking potentially higher returns and are comfortable with risk, consider a diversified mix (stocks, bonds, funds) with a low-cost provider.
What to consider when choosing
- Your tax situation: ISA protection is already tax-free on the growth and income, so any rate advantage is valuable.
- Access needs: If you may need funds quickly, prefer instant-access cash ISAs or notice accounts; fixed-rate ISAs lock in rate but restrict withdrawals.
- Inflation and real returns: with inflation around or above 5% in many recent months, even high ISA rates may be modest in real terms. Transfers can help if your current rate is behind.
- Fees and protections: ensure the provider is covered by the UK’s FSCS protection (typically up to £85,000 per saver, per institution). Check transfer policies if moving from one ISA to another.
Practical next steps
- Compare quick picks for instant-access and 1-year fixed-rate cash ISAs from major comparison sites and banks you trust.
- Check if you can transfer existing ISAs to a higher rate without losing the tax-advantaged status.
- Confirm current rates, eligibility, and any restrictions (minimum deposits, whether interest is paid monthly or at maturity, and transfer rules) directly with providers before switching.
If you’d like, specify:
- Do you want cash ISA or a stocks and shares ISA?
- Do you prefer instant access or a fixed term (and if so, 1, 2, 3, or more years)?
- Your approximate savings amount to assess tiered rates?
I can tailor a tighter list of top current offers for your preferences.
