How to Get Free Shares in the UK & Other Incentives
Get a free share bundle worth up to £200 when you invest £50
Key Benefits:
- Earn interest on uninvested cash
- Access to ISAs, SIPPs, and CFDs
- Trusted UK broker with FSCS protection
Free access to a trading course worth $2,000 (Advanced Aspects of Trading)
Key Benefits:
- CopyTrading feature to follow top investors
- Access to stocks, ETFs, crypto, forex
- Global platform with millions of users
Open an account today and get 3 months Bloomberg Digital + TradingView Essential Plan
Key Benefits:
- Tight spreads, advanced order execution
- Global broker with professional-grade tools
- Professional trading environment
Get a free share worth up to £100 when you sign up using promo code TIC
Key Benefits:
- Fractional shares from just £1
- Commission-free trading
- ISA accounts for tax-free investing
Quick Answer: How Can I Get Free Shares in the UK?
You can claim free shares in the UK by opening accounts with certain brokers offering promotions. These deals typically require signing up, sometimes depositing a minimum amount, and following platform-specific steps. They reward new investors with free stocks, trading credits, or educational resources.
What are free shares and how do they work?
Free shares are promotional stocks given by brokers to attract new users. They usually arrive after opening an account or making a qualifying deposit. You can hold, trade, or sell them depending on broker rules, but profits may be subject to UK capital gains tax.
Who is eligible for these offers?
Eligibility generally requires being a UK resident over 18, completing identity verification, and agreeing to the broker’s terms. Some offers require a minimum deposit, while others simply need account registration. Offers cannot usually be combined with other promotions, so check each broker carefully.
Quick Comparison of Top UK Free Incentive Offers
| Broker | Offer Type | Minimum Deposit | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| IG | Free Share Bundle | £50 | Free share bundle worth up to £200 |
| eToro | Trading Course Access | None | Free course worth $2000 |
| Pepperstone | Pro Trader Incentives | Varies | 3 months Bloomberg + TradingView |
| Trading 212 | Free Share Promotion | £1 | Free share worth up to £100 |
IG – Free Share Bundle Offer
IG rewards new users with a free share bundle worth up to £200 after depositing £50. The broker offers FSCS protection, access to ISAs, SIPPs, and CFDs, plus interest on uninvested cash. IG is ideal for investors seeking multiple account options in a regulated UK platform.
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
eToro – Exclusive Trading Course Access
eToro provides free access to an advanced $2,000 trading course, teaching strategies for stocks, ETFs, crypto, and forex. Its CopyTrading feature allows beginners to follow experienced traders. eToro is a global platform with millions of users, making it appealing for both learning and investing.
CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 61% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Pepperstone – Pro Trader Incentives
Pepperstone offers three months of Bloomberg Digital and TradingView Essential Plan to new professional accounts. Known for tight spreads and advanced execution tools, it targets traders seeking professional-grade platforms. Eligibility requires meeting wealth or account criteria, emphasizing high-level trading rather than casual investing.
80% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Trading 212 – Free Share Promotion
Trading 212 provides a free share worth up to £100 when signing up using the promo code TIC. Fractional shares are available from £1, and accounts are commission-free with ISA support. It’s suitable for beginners and casual investors looking for tax-efficient investing and low entry costs.
*Other fees may apply. See terms and fees.
How Do Free Share Promotions Work?
Free share promotions reward new users with stock or trading perks. The process usually involves account registration, identity verification, and meeting minimum deposit requirements. Each broker may set specific rules for claiming, holding, and selling shares, making it important to read the fine print carefully.
Do I need to deposit money to get free shares?
Some brokers require a qualifying deposit, while others provide free shares simply for signing up. Deposit requirements vary by broker and offer type. Always check the promotion details to understand whether funding your account is mandatory or optional.
Are there restrictions on withdrawing or selling free shares?
Yes, brokers often impose restrictions, such as minimum holding periods or limits on immediate sale. Some platforms may allow partial sales or fractional share liquidation. Understanding these rules ensures investors maximize benefits without violating promotion terms.
How long do I need to keep the shares to benefit fully?
Holding periods vary, typically between a few days to several months. Some brokers require you to maintain the account or shares until the promotion ends. Selling too early may forfeit bonuses, while longer holds could allow dividends or market appreciation.
Typical Free Share Rules and Requirements by Broker
| Broker | Deposit Required | Holding Period | Restrictions / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| IG | £50 | 1–3 months | Bundle awarded after deposit |
| eToro | $50 | No strict hold | Access to trading course on signup |
| Pepperstone | Varies | 3 months | Must meet professional account criteria |
| Trading 212 | £1 | No strict hold | Promo code required, fractional shares allowed |
How Safe Are Free Share Promotions in the UK?
Free share promotions are generally safe when offered by FCA-regulated brokers. FSCS protection adds a safety net for deposits, but investors should remain aware of platform security, potential scams, and promotion-specific limitations. Proper research ensures a secure trading experience.
Are these brokers FCA regulated?
Yes, IG, eToro, Pepperstone, and Trading 212 are FCA-regulated, ensuring they meet strict UK financial standards. Regulation protects client funds, enforces transparency, and guarantees proper operational conduct. Always confirm the broker’s FCA registration before participating in any promotion.
How does FSCS protection work?
FSCS protection covers eligible deposits up to £85,000 per person per broker. It ensures client funds are safe if a broker becomes insolvent. Free shares themselves are not protected, but any deposited cash used to fund accounts usually is.
Are there risks to watch out for?
- Promotional shares may have restricted liquidity.
- Unverified brokers may offer fake promotions or low-quality shares.
- Market volatility could reduce share value before sale.
- Identity verification and secure account management are essential.
Conclusion: Are Free Shares Worth Claiming in the UK?
Free shares offer risk-free exposure to the stock market, educational perks, and platform exploration. They are ideal for beginners or investors seeking low-risk opportunities. However, understanding rules, restrictions, and broker reliability is crucial to avoid disappointments and maximize potential benefits.
FAQs
Can I get free shares without depositing any money?
Brokers may require a qualifying deposit. Always verify the promotion’s terms to understand deposit requirements and eligibility.
Are free shares taxed in the UK?
Yes, free shares are subject to capital gains tax (CGT) when sold and may count toward income if dividends are received. Holding shares in an ISA can provide tax-free growth. Always track the market value and consult tax guidance.
How quickly do free shares appear in my account?
Free shares typically appear within a few days to several weeks after meeting promotion requirements. Timing varies by broker, offer type, and verification process. Notifications or emails from the broker usually confirm allocation.
Can I trade free shares immediately?
Not always. Some brokers impose holding periods or restrictions before selling or trading free shares. Others allow immediate trading. Always check the terms to avoid violating promotion rules and potentially losing your bonus shares.
