What is an ISA?

Written by Eleana Ntagia

Updated: 2026-07-30 13:53:23

An Individual Savings Account (ISA) is a UK tax-efficient savings and investment account that allows you to earn interest or investment returns without paying UK tax on them.​



Who can apply for an ISA account?


To apply for an ISA account you must be a UK tax resident and at least 18 years old. Make sure you have your UK National Insurance number to hand when applying as you’ll need this to help to verify your residency status.

Currently, ISA accounts can only be opened and managed through the XTB mobile app. We are working on making Cash ISA and Stocks & Shares ISA available on the xStation web platform as well.​


What types of ISAs does XTB offer?

XTB offers a Flexible Stocks & Shares ISA and a Flexible Cash ISA.

In a Flexible ISA, you can withdraw funds at any time. The key feature of a Flexible ISA is that you can replace any amount you withdraw within the same tax year without affecting your annual ISA allowance.

If you withdraw £1,000, you can contribute an additional £1,000 later in the same tax year without it counting against your £20,000 limit. This allows for greater flexibility in managing your investments.



What is the annual ISA contribution limit?

For the current tax year, the annual contribution limit is £20,000. This total can be spread across different types of ISAs.

The annual ISA allowance resets at the start of every new tax year on 6 April.

How can I open an ISA account?

Opening an ISA requires an active standard trading account. You can set up your ISA directly through the mobile app by following these steps:

  1. Complete Initial Registration: Download the app and complete the application form to set up your primary trading account.

  2. Navigate to Portfolio: Once your account is verified and activated, open the Portfolio tab.

  3. Select Your ISA Type: Locate the ISA options and choose between a Stocks and Shares ISA or a Cash ISA, depending on your investment goals.

  4. Finalize Setup: Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the registration and activate your ISA.

Does XTB offer interest rates on uninvested funds for ISA?

Yes, XTB offers a variable rate of 4% AER on a Cash ISA and a Flexible Cash ISA uninvested funds.
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Where can I find my ISA account number and sort code?

​Currently, it is not possible to view your ISA account number and sort code in the application. Please ask to connect with a live agent via chat or send an email to ukservice@xtb.co.uk, and we will be happy to provide it.


​Is an ISA account exempt from all taxes?

No. An ISA account is exempt from UK taxes only. Other taxes, such as withholding tax, may still apply.

Are Polish stocks available in an ISA account?

No. Polish stocks are not available in an ISA account.


🚩Please note we do not charge inactivity fees for ISAs.

If you still need help with your question,