Junior ISA's Explained

    AYLESBURY, ENGLAND, March 24, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Every parent wants to give their children the best possible start in life, and there are many ways to make provisions for their future, including making financial savings, whether it's a savings account, a government savings product like the new Junior ISA or another type of investment.

Since the Government only permits one tax-efficient account per child, a Junior ISA can only be opened for children (UK residents) who weren't eligible for a Child Trust Fund account:

- Children born on or after 03 January 2011
- Under 18's born before 01 September 2002 (with no Child Trust Fund)
- Children born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011 who missed out on a Child Trust Fund

Junior ISAs also known as child ISA's, are similar to Child Trust Funds before them. They are a way of parents to invest for their child's future. The account is held in the name of the child, so only they can access the money when they turn 18 years old. Parents, family and friends can contribute to the account, and it will remain tax efficient as long as the total amount invested in a tax year doesn't exceed the ISA allowance limit, which is GBP3,600 for the 2011-2012 tax year.

When your child reaches 18, their Junior ISA will be converted into an adult ISA and they have the opportunity to access the funds. Please note that your child can take control of their account (but not access to the funds) when they reach 16 years of age if they wish.

Once turning 18 he or she is able to access the account and reap the benefits of the savings made. Having the benefit of these funds allows them the option of continuing studies into higher education. In addition it could pay for maintenance during their studies food costs, rent, etc.
It could however be used for different purposes, with the market for first time buyers becoming more difficult to break into, having the advantage of a Junior ISA could help them purchase their first property.

If your offspring were to choose an occupation after leaving education, for instance apprenticeships, the savings could help go towards necessary equipment and tuition.

The Share Centre provides a range of Junior ISA's and for more information please visit http://www.share.com/a/JISA.html.

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