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HMRC Data Show Lifetime ISA Penalties Hit £102m, Renewing Pressure for ISA Reforms

New HMRC figures have sharpened calls for LISA reforms during an ongoing Treasury review.

Overview

  • Early-withdrawal charges rose to about £102 million in 2024/25, up from £75.3 million the previous year.
  • Some 87,250 savers used a LISA to buy a first home in 2024/25, with an average withdrawal of £15,782.
  • Adult ISA subscriptions reached roughly £103 billion in 2023/24, driven by a near £28 billion jump into cash ISAs.
  • MPs and industry experts criticise the 25% early-exit charge and the £450,000 house-price cap, and the government has pledged clearer messaging.
  • Industry commentary indicates any move to cut the £20,000 cash ISA allowance has been paused, though broader ISA changes remain under review.