ISA vs Pension

Where does your next £100 go?

ISA basics

£20k/yr allowance Withdraw anytime, tax-free No tax relief on contributions

Pension basics

Tax relief at your marginal rate: 20%/40%/45% Locked until 57 (rising to 58) 25% tax-free at retirement

Higher-rate (40%) earner?

£100 into pension costs you £60 net. Pension wins on day one.

Basic-rate earner under 40?

ISA often wins — flexibility now, still zero tax later.

Model both

Our ISA and pension calculators show 30-year outcomes side by side.

Open ISA calculator →