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:

* 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.

Read our Aviva review

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.

Read our Canada Life review

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.

Read our Just Group review

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.

Read our LV= review

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.

Read our Nationwide review

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.

Read our SunLife review

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.

Read our Saga review

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.

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.