TSB is a major fixture of the UK high street, known for its "local banking" roots. In the later-life market, TSB focuses on helping homeowners bridge the gap between their working lives and retirement. As of early 2026, TSB’s strategy is primarily centered on Retirement Interest-Only (RIO) mortgages and extending traditional mortgage terms, rather than offering "roll-up" equity release directly.
Important 2026 Update: It is worth noting that Santander’s acquisition of TSB is expected to complete in early 2026. While TSB currently operates its own later-life lending products, its partnership model and product range may align more closely with Santander’s (which uses Legal & General for equity release) as the integration progresses.
If you are wondering whether TSB’s equity release alternatives are the best options for your retirement needs, get in touch and one of our advisers will review their suitability for you compared to lifetime mortgages from other providers.
Get equity release quotes and advice today
We work with equity release providers across the market, including TSB. Our advisers can help you compare equity rates from different providers and find the best deal for you.
Our experts will compare rates from every UK provider in seconds. They will show you the latest equity release deals from TSB and others so you can make an informed decision about which option is right for you.
To get started, fill in our quick online form below and one of our expert equity release advisers with be in touch today!
Who is TSB?
TSB Bank plc (Trustees Savings Bank) has a long history in the UK, originally formed in 1810. After various mergers and a split from Lloyds, it has repositioned itself as a modern high-street bank. In the retirement sector, TSB is known for its "common sense" approach to lending, specifically targeting "mortgage prisoners" who need to transition from an ending interest-only mortgage into a more permanent later-life solution.
What is TSB Equity Release?
TSB does not offer a traditional "no-payment" lifetime mortgage under its own brand. Instead, they provide two main routes for older homeowners:
-
Retirement Interest-Only (RIO) Mortgages: This is TSB’s core later-life product. Designed for those aged 55 and over, it allows you to pay only the interest monthly. The loan is only repaid when you pass away or move into care. Because you pay the interest, the debt never grows, protecting the final inheritance.
-
Mortgages into Retirement: TSB allows standard repayment or interest-only mortgages to extend up to age 80 or 85 at the end of the term, provided your projected retirement income (pension, etc.) meets their affordability checks.
Key Features of TSB Later Life Lending
TSB’s products are designed for financial sustainability and high-street accessibility:
-
Manual Affordability Assessment: TSB is known for looking at "actual" retirement income. They will consider state pensions, private pensions, and some investment income to ensure the monthly interest is affordable.
-
Competitive Fixed Rates: They offer 2-year and 5-year fixed rates for RIO products, allowing for predictable monthly budgeting.
-
No "Interest Snowball": Because RIO requires monthly payments, the total debt remains the same as the day you borrowed it.
-
Flexible Terms: They are often more flexible than specialised insurers when it comes to existing customers who want to "top up" their current mortgage for home improvements or to help family.
TSB Later Life Interest Rates
Because TSB products require monthly repayments, their interest rates are generally lower than traditional equity release. Their RIO and later-life rates typically depend on the LTV (Loan-to-Value) and the fixed-rate period chosen. Speak to one of our advisers for a full breakdown of TSB’s later life rates and how they compare to traditional equity release.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a TSB later-life mortgage, you generally need to meet these criteria:
-
Age: You must be at least 55 for a RIO mortgage. For standard mortgages, you must usually be under 80 by the time the mortgage ends.
-
Income: You must pass a standard affordability check. TSB will look at your guaranteed retirement income to ensure you can sustain the interest payments for life.
-
Property Value: Your home must be your main residence and typically valued at £100,000 or more.
-
Equity: You generally need at least 25% to 40% equity in your home (maximum LTV is often capped around 60% to 75% for interest-only).
Pros and Cons of TSB Later Life Lending
Pros:
-
Cheaper than Equity Release: Lower interest rates because you are servicing the interest monthly.
-
Protects Inheritance: Since the debt doesn't grow, the remaining value of your home is preserved for your heirs.
-
High-Street Security: Access to branches and the backing of a large, regulated UK bank.
-
Flexible Income Criteria: Will consider various pension and investment income streams.
Cons:
-
Monthly Commitment: You must make monthly payments. If you fail to do so, your home is at risk of repossession.
-
No "No-Payment" Options: TSB does not offer a product where interest rolls up.
-
Rigorous Checks: You have to "prove" your income, which isn't required for traditional equity release.
-
Age Caps: Unlike some specialist lenders, TSB usually has a maximum age limit (around 80-85) for the end of standard mortgage terms.
How to Apply
-
Initial Enquiry: Make an enquiry with us so one of our independent advisers can assess whether TSB or another lender is the best fit for you.
-
Affordability Assessment: You will need to provide pension statements, bank statements, and proof of any other retirement income.
-
Advice: Your broker will recommend whether a TSB RIO mortgage or a standard later-life loan is most suitable, rather than an equity release or another type of product from a different lender.
-
Application & Valuation: Once an application is submitted with the help of your adviser, TSB will value your property and conduct final credit checks.
-
Completion: After legal work is finalised by your solicitor, the funds are released.
