The Martin Lewis Podcast Everything you need to know about ISAs (Cash & Shares) - but were too afraid to ask!
Dec 11, 2025
Dive into the complexities of ISAs with insights on cash, stocks, and the future of Lifetime ISAs. Discover how new rules allow multiple ISAs annually and the impact of recent budget changes limiting cash ISA allowances. Explore smart strategies on saving, investing, and avoiding penalties when transferring ISAs. Martin shares beginner tips for DIY shares ISAs and debates the pros and cons of Lifetime ISAs versus pensions. Plus, get festive with listener holiday tips and learn about the car insurance loyalty penalty!
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ISA Is A Wrapper Not A Product
- An ISA is a tax wrapper, not a product, that shields savings or investments from tax.
- Choose what to put inside the ISA (cash or shares) based on whether you should save or invest.
Find Your Stopcock To Avoid Costly Floods
- Martin urged listeners to locate their mains stopcock and ensure it works to avoid flood damage averaging £9,000.
- He recommended marking its location and checking it isn't rusted so you can turn it off quickly in an emergency.
Sequence: Debts, Emergency Fund, Then Invest
- Pay off expensive debts first, then build a 3–6 month emergency cash fund before investing.
- Invest money you won't need for 5+ years because diversified investing likely outperforms savings long-term.