Junior Stocks and Shares ISA (JISA)
Junior Stocks and Shares ISA
What is a Junior Stocks and Shares ISA?
A Junior Stocks and Shares ISA (JISA) is a tax-free investment account that a parent or legal guardian can open on behalf of a child under 18 in the UK. It lets you invest in a range of funds, shares, and bonds, with returns — including capital gains and dividends — free from UK tax.
Who can open a Junior Stocks and Shares ISA?
Only a parent or legal guardian can open and manage a Junior Stocks and Shares ISA on behalf of a child. The child must be under 18 and a UK resident.
How much can I invest in a Junior Stocks and Shares ISA each year?
The annual JISA allowance is £9,000 per tax year. This allowance applies per child, and unused allowance cannot be carried forward to the next tax year.
Can my child hold more than one Junior Stocks and Shares ISA?
No. A child can hold only one Junior Stocks and Shares ISA at a time. If your child already has a Junior Stocks and Shares ISA open with another provider, they are not eligible to open one with Emma until that account is closed or transferred.
Can I transfer an existing Junior ISA to Emma?
Yes! To transfer an existing JISA, go to the Invest tab, select Junior Stocks & Shares ISA, and select Transfer ISA.
Can I withdraw money from a Junior Stocks and Shares ISA before my child turns 18?
No. Funds in a Junior Stocks and Shares ISA are locked until the child turns 18, and no withdrawals are permitted before then.
What happens when my child turns 18?
When your child turns 18, the Junior Stocks and Shares ISA automatically converts into a standard Stocks and Shares ISA, and full control of the account and its funds passes to them.
How do I open a Junior Stocks and Shares ISA in the app?
To open a Junior Stocks and Shares ISA:
- Open the Emma app
- Go to the Invest tab
- Select Junior Stocks & Shares ISA from the list of available account types
- Follow the in-app steps to complete the setup
When investing, your capital is at risk. The value of investments can go down as well as up, and your child may get back less than was invested.
Updated on: 23/06/2026
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