Transfer

What is a transfer?

A transfer is when you move your ISA, SIPP, or other investments from one provider to another. Your money and investments move across, and you keep all the tax benefits you’ve built up.

Why would you transfer?

• Lower fees. Another platform is cheaper
• Better choice. You want funds the current platform doesn’t offer
• Consolidation. You want everything in one place
• Better app or service. The experience matters too

How do you transfer?

Start with the new provider, not the old one. They’ll have a transfer form. You tell them what you want to move, and they handle the rest. Contacting your old provider, arranging the move, chasing if needed.

Don’t withdraw the money yourself. If you cash in an ISA and move the money manually, you lose the tax-free wrapper. Use the official transfer process.

How long does a transfer take?

ISA transfers should complete within 30 days for stocks and shares, 15 days for cash. Pension transfers can take 4-8 weeks or longer, depending on the providers.

During the transfer, you usually can’t trade. Your investments are frozen while they move.

Does transferring cost anything?

The new provider usually handles it for free. They want your business. But check if your old provider charges an exit fee. Some charge per holding transferred.

Key points about transfers

• Move investments between providers. Keep your tax benefits
• Start with the new provider. They manage the process
• Don’t withdraw and redeposit. You’ll lose your ISA wrapper
• Check for exit fees. Some platforms charge