Isa Providers with trasck record for consistantly high rates

DOM01_2

I have purchased fixed rate Isas from the Portman over the past three years. The latest have a transfer fee. How can I find out which providers have offered consistantly high rates so I can move my Isas somewhere where I don't feel the need to constantly watch rates, even if this means I won't always get the top rate. :santa2:

simonhgreen

Look in The Sunday Times databank tables in the money section.

They give not only the current best payers, but the most consistent over the last 3 yrs.

The most consistent over 3 years as long as I can remember is Nationwide cash ISA.

The other advantage (I have done this) is that if you are a Nationwide member for more than a couple of years you are entitled to have a cash ISA bond, which is at an even higher rate (currently 4.90%).

You can get better rates by constantly jumping from provider to provider, but some are now charging transfer fees which more than wipe out any potential gain (plus the possibility they could cut the rate the day after you transfer!!).

If you want nil hassle and peace of mind that you're getting a consistently good rate I'd go for Nationwide, but keep looking in the Sunday Times databank to make sure they're still the best.

Hope this helps.

DOM01_2

Thanks for the information. I do have a Nationwide account so may be able to get the higher rate. Do you know if I can open an Isa for this year and also add the £6k I have invested with the Portman.

simonhgreen

You can open a cash ISA providing you haven't already opened one (or a maxi ISA) this year.

You can transfer the £6k in from your current provider.

Make sure you do this by getting a transfer form from your current provider. Do not close the account yourself as you will lose the tax free status of the money & won't be able to put it into your new ISA.

al_yrpal

I have held cash ISA's with Kent Reliance Building Society. They have consistently been amongst the highest rates (currently 4.96%), and have real people in Kent answering the phones. Apparently their expense ratios are amongst the lowest.