Cash ISA

Enjoy tax-free savings and earn 3.5% AER, all while helping us provide ethical and affordable loans across the South West.

Tax-free flexible saving

Open an ISA with us, and enjoy tax-free interest while your money works for local good.

Your savings allow us to offer fair loans to local people who need credit but may struggle to borrow affordably elsewhere.

Make a stand for inclusive banking, help us promote financial wellbeing and give our local economy a boost.

Minimum deposit £1
Deposit up to £20,000 tax-free each year
Easily transfer money from other ISAs up to our maximum deposit limit of £85,000, including transfers from stocks and shares ISAs

Interest rate

3.5% AER tax free

Read the full Terms and Conditions here.

Why choose us

Your money allows us to offer fair loans to local people

Flexible savings accounts that allow you to save what you can, when you can

Your savings are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme

We offer a competitive return on your savings

FAQs

Are my savings protected?

Yes. Your eligible deposits with Great Western Credit Union are protected up to a total of £85,000 by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), the UK's deposit guarantee scheme. Any deposits you hold above the £85,000 limit are unlikely to be covered.

Find out more about this

How much can you put into a GWCU Cash ISA?

Our Cash ISA allows you to deposit from £1,000, up to £20,000 in the 2022/23 tax year. Once you open your account, you can set up a regular Standing Order from your bank account. If your employer is signed up to our Savings@Work scheme, you can also save via your payroll.

You can easily transfer money from other ISA providers up to our maximum deposit limit of £85,000, including transfers from stocks and shares ISAs.

How do I pay into my savings account?

You can set up a bank transfer or regular Standing Order from your bank account.

You can find out the details you need to add money to your account by logging in to the member portal.

To pay in a cheque, you can request a pre-paid envelope by emailing info@gwcu.org.uk. Please make sure you include your name, postcode and member number on the back of the cheque.

If you need to pay in cash, you can request a free Allpay card which can be used to make cash deposits at any Post Office or Paypoint outlet. We cannot accept cash in the post.

Our savings accounts are not set-up for day-to-day banking, so if you regularly need access to cash then we then we strongly encourage you to open a current account with a bank or a building society.

View more FAQs

I first found out about them over 10 years ago and immediately knew I wanted to be part of it. By becoming a member I know my savings are only going to directly help people and local enterprises in my own community.

Helen

How to apply

Check your eligibility

To apply for our Cash ISA you need to meet the following criteria:

Age 18+
Live, work or study in Bristol, Bath, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Somerset or Dorset
Or be a UNITE and UNISON member from across the South-West

Have your documents ready

You'll need an email address and mobile number to start your application. Make sure you have your National Insurance number, plus proof of identity handy.

If you are unable to provide these during your application, you can save at any time and get in touch to discuss your options.

Get in touch

Start your application

Now that you have everything you need you can get started on your application. It takes about 15 minutes to complete your application and open your account. You can save your application at any time and come back to it later.

Get started