Equity Release Companies - 2026 Reviews
Our equity release reviews compare leading UK providers authorised by the FCA and members of the Equity Release Council, helping you understand their products, eligibility criteria, interest rates, and key features. By reviewing specialist brokers and major lenders, we aim to give you clear, impartial information to help you choose the equity release company best suited to your needs.
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Equity Release Companies (2026 Reviews)
Equity release allows homeowners aged 55 and over to access cash from their property in the form of a tax-free lump sum mortgage or a regular income. However, the provider you choose can have a significant impact on how much you can borrow, what it costs over time, and how flexible your plan will be. These loans can also affect the value of your estate, which should be considered carefully.
In this guide, we compare some of the leading UK equity release providers. We highlight key features and interest rate considerations, and explain how to choose the right option for your circumstances.
Equity Release Providers at a Glance
Equity release is a long-term financial commitment and may reduce the value of your estate.
The table below compares providers and their key features:
| Provider | Type | Interest Rate (Typical Range) | MER* | Drawdown | ERC Type | Min Age | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age Partnership | Broker / Adviser | N/A | Yes | Varies | 55 | Whole-of-market advice and annuity expertise | |
| Aviva | Lifetime Mortgage | 8.3% | Yes | Fixed / Variable | 55 | Flexible plans | |
| Canada Life | Lifetime Mortgage | 7.1% | Yes | Varies | 55 | Broad product range | |
| Crown Equity Release | Broker | N/A | Yes | Varies | 55 | Whole-of-market advice | |
| Just Group | Lifetime Mortgage | ~7% | Yes | Fixed | 55 | Later-life focus | |
| Legal & General | Lifetime Mortgage | ~6.8–7.3 7% | Yes | Fixed | 55 | Competitive rates | |
| LV= | Lifetime Mortgage | ~6.4-8.1% | Yes | Fixed | 60 | Lump sum focus | |
| Nationwide | No longer available to new customers | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Servicing existing clients only. Not available to new customers. |
| OneFamily | Lifetime Mortgage | ~6.65% | Yes | Fixed | 55 | Simple plans | |
| Pure Retirement | Lifetime Mortgage | ~6.65% | Yes | Fixed | 55 | Predictable terms | |
| SunLife | Broker / Introducer | N/A | Varies | Varies | 55 | Referral service | |
| Saga | Broker / Partner | N/A | Yes | Fixed | 55 | Over-50s focus |
* Please note: Rates correct as at 13 April 2026. Rates vary by provider and are subject to change based on age, property value, and health. Interest is typically compounded, meaning it is added to the loan and interest is then charged on the growing balance.
Detailed Breakdown of Top Providers
Age Partnership
Age Partnership is a specialist, independent equity release adviser. Rather than offering its own products, it compares plans from a wide panel of lenders to help match customers with suitable options. They are The Times Money Mentor's accredited broker. Their reputation and presence have enabled them to negotiate competitive rates across a wide selection of lenders.
Read our Age Partnership review
Aviva
Aviva is a well-established provider offering a range of Moneyfacts 5-star rated lifetime mortgages. Its interest rates are generally positioned within the competitive range of the market. A lump sum mortgage lets you release a lump sum upfront with the option to borrow more later on. A flexible mortgage includes a cash reserve that can be drawn on as required.
Canada Life
Canada Life equity release plans often include a drawdown facility, allowing you to access funds as and when needed, along with options for inheritance protection. This can help preserve a portion of your property’s value for your family. Interest rates are typically competitive and vary depending on the plan and borrower profile. Some plans also allow voluntary repayments, giving you the option to reduce the overall cost over time. Canada Life also has two Moneyfacts 5-star rated products available.
Crown Equity Release
Crown Equity Release is a specialist broker that is known for taking a more flexible approach. It considers different property types and borrower circumstances. This may benefit those who do not meet standard lending criteria. As a broker, it compares rates from across the market rather than setting them, helping customers find a suitable option based on their needs.
Read our Crown Equity Release review
Just Group
Just Group offers retirement-focused financial products. They bring two Moneyfacts 5-star rated offerings to the equity release market. They offer a lifetime mortgage that lets you release a one-off lump sum, or alternatively an option that includes extra cash when you need it. Their in-house financial solution company, HUB, provides specialised equity release advice.
Legal & General
Legal & General is one of the UK’s largest equity release providers and is known for combining competitive pricing with a strong range of features. Its interest rates are often among the more competitive in the market. Its lifetime mortgage products include options for drawdown, voluntary repayments and, in some cases, the ability to receive a regular income over a set period.
Read our Legal & General review
LV=
LV= offers a focused range of equity release products alongside an advice service delivered in partnership with Age Partnership. It has several plans with 5-star Moneyfacts ratings. They are typically straightforward, which may appeal to customers who prefer a direct approach to accessing funds without too many variations.
Nationwide
Nationwide no longer offers equity release to new customers but continues to support its existing borrowers. While it is not an option for new plans, it remains relevant for those reviewing or managing an existing arrangement.
OneFamily
All OneFamily Lifetime Mortgage customers have now been transferred to Pure Retirement. Pure Retirement is a well-established, experienced equity release servicing provider. Interest rates are now aligned with its product range and servicing structure.
Pure Retirement
Pure Retirement specialises in lifetime mortgages that are distributed through advisers and brokers. Their Heritage and Sovereign plans offer competitive rates, along with options for repayments and drawdown. The Sovereign range also provides greater flexibility in the types of property that may be accepted. Pure Retirement is often among the more competitively priced providers, with some of the lowest headline rates available depending on the plan and borrower profile.
Read our Pure Retirement review
SunLife
SunLife does not offer equity release products directly but is an authorised introducer to Key Equity Release. It is best viewed as an entry point for exploring options rather than a provider of specific plans.
Saga
Saga does not offer equity release products directly but works with selected partners to provide access to lifetime mortgages. Its service is aimed at the over-50s market, with a focus on simplicity and guidance. Interest rates will depend on the lender and plan recommended, but are typically in line with wider market rates based on individual circumstances.
Interest Rates and Costs Explained
Equity release interest rates are typically fixed for life, giving certainty over how the loan will grow over time. Current rates generally fall within the mid to high range, often around 5.5% to 7.5%, depending on factors such as age, property value and the amount borrowed.
Because interest is usually compounded, the amount owed can grow quickly if no repayments are made. This is why a lower rate can be beneficial, but it should not be the only factor considered. Features such as drawdown options or the ability to make partial repayments can significantly reduce the overall cost in the long term.
This means the most suitable plan is not always the one with the lowest headline rate, but the one that best matches your needs.
What Should You Compare Besides Interest Rates?
While interest rates are important, they shouldn't be the only factor when comparing equity release providers. The best lifetime mortgage for one homeowner may not be the right choice for another, even if it has the lowest advertised rate.
It's worth looking at how flexible each product is. Some lenders allow voluntary repayments without early repayment charges, helping to reduce the amount of interest that builds up over time. Others offer drawdown facilities, allowing you to release money gradually rather than taking the full amount upfront.
You should also consider whether a provider offers inheritance protection, fixed early repayment charges or downsizing protection. These features can make a significant difference if your circumstances change in the future.
Customer service and lender reputation are equally important. Choosing an established provider with strong customer reviews and a history of supporting homeowners can provide additional confidence when making such an important financial decision.
Finally, remember that no single lender is best for everyone. A whole-of-market equity release adviser can compare products from multiple providers and recommend the option that best suits your age, property and retirement plans.
How We Evaluate Equity Release Providers
Choosing an equity release provider involves more than comparing rates. We assess a range of factors to help identify providers that offer both value and long-term security.
Regulatory Compliance and Safety
All providers included are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This ensures customers are protected under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), providing an added layer of security.
Equity Release Council Membership
We prioritise providers that are members of the Equity Release Council. Membership requires adherence to strict standards, including the no negative equity guarantee, which ensures you will never owe more than the value of your home.
Interest Rates and Charges
We consider how competitive interest rates are, whether fixed or variable, and how they compare to the wider market. We also review fees and early repayment charges, particularly where flexibility to repay early may be important.
Product Flexibility
We look at whether providers offer both lump sum and drawdown options. Drawdown facilities can help reduce the total interest paid, as funds are only released when needed rather than taken all at once.
Flexible Repayment Options
Some providers allow voluntary repayments, either towards the interest or the loan itself. This can help manage how quickly the loan grows over time and reduce the overall cost.
Customer Reviews and Reputation
We take into account customer feedback and overall reputation, including reviews on platforms such as Trustpilot.
Expert Advice
Equity release is a long-term financial decision, so professional advice is essential. A qualified, independent adviser can compare products from across the market and help identify the most suitable option based on your individual circumstances.
How to Choose the Right Equity Release Provider
Choosing the right provider depends on your personal circumstances. Factors such as your age, property value and how you plan to use the funds will all influence which plan is most suitable.
It is important to look beyond headline rates and consider how flexible the plan is, especially if your needs may change over time. Speaking to a qualified adviser can help ensure you understand the long-term impact and choose a plan that aligns with your goals.
Conclusion
Comparing equity release providers is an essential step in finding the right plan. While interest rates are important, flexibility, features and long-term costs all play a role. By understanding how providers differ and what to look for, you can make an informed decision that supports your financial future.
Next steps
Take a look around to find useful information on everything from the costs involved, how much you can get , frequently asked questions and lots more helpful information.
Or use our equity release calculator to get an idea of how much money you could unlock from your home.
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How this site works
Our aim is to provide you with clear and accurate information to help you research your chosen financial products and services. The material on this site is for general information only and does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation.
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The information provided on this site is accurate at the date of publication, occasionally however, things will change before we have had the opportunity to update them, so please do check. Always do your own research and take independent advice.
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Over50choices is an independent company and regulated by the FCA (No.594280) for insurance products only and a member of the Equity Release Council.