We’re making changes to our fixed term investments
We’re also simplifying our range of accounts and investments to make them more consistent and easier to understand. As part of these plans we’re making changes to our fixed term investments.
Read on to find out more or watch our video explaining the changes.
What are fixed term investments?
They are investments that last for a set period of time, known as a ‘term’. Our current range of fixed term investments are: Index-linked Savings Certificates, Fixed Interest Savings Certificates, Guaranteed Growth Bonds, Guaranteed Income Bonds and Children’s Bonus Bonds.
Will the changes affect me?
Yes, if you:
- have any existing NS&I fixed term investments that mature on or after 20 September 2012, and you decide to renew them
- buy any new Issues of NS&I fixed term investments that we release on or after 20 September 2012
No, if you only have variable rate savings with NS&I, for example Premium Bonds, Income Bonds or any of our savings accounts.
What are the changes?
The changes are specific to each investment type, but in general they include:
- new ways to keep track of your money: online and by phone
- a penalty for cashing in early
- a minimum age of 16 for all investors
One of the main changes is to our online and phone service – we’re giving you more choice in how you look after your fixed term investments. From 20 September 2012 you can manage them online or by calling us. You’ll be able to check the value of your fixed term investments online or by phone – making it a lot easier to keep track of your money. We’ll also send you a statement each year, so you’ll have a paper record too. Or you can choose to go paperless if you’re happy to receive your records electronically.
We’ve also introduced a penalty for cashing in a fixed term investment early. Penalties for early withdrawal are already standard practice with most banks and building societies, and some of our investments already have them in place. So we’re now making all our fixed term investments consistent.
When do the changes take place?
The changes start happening on 20 September 2012, but you don’t need to do anything yet. If you’re affected, we’ll write to you around 30 days before your fixed term investment matures, to remind you that it’s time to decide what to do with your money. We’ll include full details of the changes to your investment, together with information explaining your choices for renewing or cashing in.
How to find out more
Find out more by selecting the specific product information from the following links:
Index-linked Savings Certificates