Major Providers
How to Choose & FAQs
- Myth: "I have to pay to find a lost account."
Fact: Never pay. Use the official GOV.UK tool for free. - Myth: "The government takes the money back if I
don't claim it."
Fact: It’s yours forever. It sits safely in a holding account until you access it. - Myth: "My parents can stop me spending it."
Fact: At 18, the money is legally 100% yours.
Cash CTF: Lower risk; steady interest; values don’t swing with markets.
Stakeholder (Equity) CTF: Invested in shares; potential for higher long‑term growth; values can fall as well as rise.
Tip: If the money is needed soon (e.g., within a year), many families prefer lower‑risk options.
Keep: The simplest route; stay with your current CTF provider.
Transfer to JISA: Often wider investment choice and sometimes lower fees; still tax‑efficient.
Watch‑out: Ask the new provider to handle the transfer. Don’t withdraw first or you’ll lose the tax benefits.
Withdraw: Access cash once ID checks complete.
Keep/Invest: Some providers offer options to remain invested (charges and risk apply).
Move to Adult ISA: Keeps money in a tax‑efficient account; check fees and transfer rules.
Use the official GOV.UK finder tool. HMRC will send you your provider details by post.
Yes. Anyone can pay into a Child Trust Fund. The money belongs to the child, but parents, grandparents, and friends can all contribute up to the £9,000 annual limit.
You are protected. UK regulated providers are covered by the FSCS, protecting up to £120,000 of your savings per institution.
Generally no. Money in a Child Trust Fund belongs to the child and does not usually count towards the parents' means-tested benefits. Once the child turns 18, it may affect their own claim for benefits.