If you’re saving money in the UK, a Cash ISA is one of the simplest and safest ways to earn tax-free interest on your savings. Unlike a normal savings account, all interest earned inside a Cash ISA is protected from tax — and you’re allowed to save up to £20,000 per year across all ISA types.
In this article, we compare some of the best Cash ISA accounts available in 2026, including easy-access accounts and fixed-rate options.
💡 What Is a Cash ISA?
A Cash ISA is a special UK savings account where the interest you earn is tax-free. This can make a big difference over time — especially if you’re saving for long-term goals like an emergency fund, first home, or future plans.
You can contribute up to:
- £20,000 per tax year (until April 2027 — this may reduce later)
Most Cash ISAs are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) up to £120,000 per provider [Link].
🥇 Top Easy-Access Cash ISA Accounts (2026)
These accounts let you withdraw money without fixed terms — ideal if you’re saving but still want flexibility.
| Provider | Approx Rate (AER) | Minimum Deposit | Notes |
| Tembo Money Cash ISA | ~4.64% | £10 | High rate + flexible access (FSCS protected) |
| Charter Savings Bank Cash ISA | ~4.40% | £1 | Easy access with good rates |
| Moneybox Cash ISA | ~4.39% | £500 | Great for app users |
| Plum Cash ISA | ~4.32% | £1 | Easy for beginners via app |
| Atom Bank Cash ISA | ~4.25% | £0 | No minimum deposit |
💡 Tembo and Charter Savings Bank lead on flexible rates, while Moneybox, Plum, and Atom Bank offer strong mobile + easy access options for beginners.
📆 Fixed-Rate Cash ISA Accounts
Fixed-rate Cash ISAs lock your money away for a set time (e.g., 1–3 years). You usually can’t withdraw early without penalty, but you can often earn higher interest.
| Provider | Term | Approx Rate (AER) | Minimum |
| 1-Year Fixed ISAs | |||
| Tandem Bank Fixed Cash ISA | 1 yr | ~4.15% | £0 |
| Investec Save Cash ISA | 1 yr | ~4.14% | £1,000 |
| 2–3 Year Fixed ISAs | |||
| Aldermore / Cynergy Bank | 2–3 yrs | ~4.15% | £500–£1,000 |
Fixed rates are a good option if you’re confident you won’t need the money soon and want guaranteed returns.
📊 Quick Comparison
Easy access is best if you want flexibility and possible withdrawals.
Fixed-rate is best for predictable, higher returns if you can wait.
🧠 How to Choose the Right Cash ISA
Ask yourself:
- Do I need access to this money soon?
→ Choose easy access - Can I lock it away for 1–3 years?
→ Consider a fixed-rate ISA - Do I want bonus rates for new customers?
→ Some accounts offer introductory boosts (check terms)
💡 Remember: Cash ISA rates change often, and bonus or “headline” rates may only apply to new money for a limited time.
📍 Why Cash ISAs Matter (Tax-Free Interest)
Interest on savings outside an ISA may be subject to tax, especially if you exceed the personal savings allowance. With a Cash ISA, all interest is tax-free, which can make a noticeable difference over years, especially with higher interest rates.
🧠 Top Tip for Beginners
You can open more than one Cash ISA in a year with different providers — but only use one of each type per tax year for your annual allowance.
Also, transferring existing ISA balances can be a smart way to secure better rates without losing tax benefits — just check the provider’s rules before switching.
🧾 Final Summary
Here are some great choices for 2026:
- 👶 Tembo Money Cash ISA — great all-round rate for easy access
- 📱 Moneybox & Plum Cash ISAs — beginner friendly, app based
- 📅 Fixed-Rate ISAs — best if you can lock money away for a year or more
Always read the full terms and conditions, and choose the option that best fits your savings goals.
Why Trust Bright Savings UK?
Bright Savings UK is run by a former banker with over 25 years of experience in the banking and financial services industry. Our goal is to help everyday people save smarter, with clear explanations and practical guidance.
Suggested Internal Links
- What Is an ISA and How It Works in the UK [Link]
- Why Starting to Save at 18 Beats Saving More at 30 [Link]
- Emergency Fund Guide (UK) [Link]
📌 Note: Rates change often. Always check provider websites before opening an account.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.