Lightyear referral link (UK): how to get the free share reward

Last updated: 27 March 2026

Want a Lightyear referral link that gets you started with a reward? If you are new to Lightyear and sign up via the link below, you can qualify for a referral reward once you complete onboarding and fund your account (terms apply).

Use the Lightyear referral link

Start your sign-up flow using:

Start Lightyear sign-up

Important: Lightyear's referral scheme terms say referral links are intended for private sharing (not mass posting online). Always check the latest terms below before relying on any reward.

How the referral reward works

1. Open a Lightyear account using the referral link above.
2. Complete onboarding and identity checks.
3. Fund your account with at least £100 (or the equivalent) within 30 days.
4. If you qualify, the reward is credited to your General Investment Account (GIA).

The rule people miss: the 6-month withdrawal lock

Lightyear's terms include a withdrawal restriction. Rewards (and an equivalent value if you sell or convert the reward) cannot usually be withdrawn until 6 months after the reward is received. Plan for that, and do not sign up assuming you can instantly cash out the bonus.

Is the reward amount random?

Depending on the specific campaign, Lightyear may allocate rewards using an automated probability table. Here is the typical bucket weighting shown in Lightyear's promotion terms:

• £10 to £20: 80%
• £20 to £50: 15%
• £50 to £75: 3%
• £75 to £100: 2%

In practice, most people land in the smaller bands. It is still a nice boost, but do not mentally spend the £100 before it exists.

What you get with Lightyear in 2026

Since March 2026, Lightyear has become one of the cheapest investing platforms in the UK. Key highlights include commission-free trading on all stocks and ETFs, a 0.10% FX fee (down from 0.35%), multi-currency accounts in GBP, USD and EUR, a Cash ISA paying 3.75% AER, Money Market Fund Vaults earning up to 3.75% AER, 1% interest on uninvested GBP cash, and access to over 6,200 stocks across UK, US and EU markets.

For a full breakdown of fees, features, pros and cons, read the Lightyear review UK.

Before you sign up

• New customers only: referral rewards are for people who do not already have a Lightyear account.
• Minimum funding: you need to fund £100+ within the time window.
• GIA requirement: rewards are credited to a General Investment Account (GIA).
• Not combinable: referral rewards generally cannot be combined with other Lightyear promotions unless stated otherwise.
• Offers change: Lightyear can amend or withdraw promotions at any time.

Official terms and trusted checks

• Lightyear referral scheme terms (UK) - funding window, GIA requirement, withdrawal lock, and referral limits.
• Lightyear signup promotion terms - probability buckets and how randomisation works (where applicable).
• Lightyear help: how referral rewards work - where referrals live in-app and what invitees must do.
• Lightyear pricing - fees and costs, including FX, in one place.

Is Lightyear regulated?

Yes. Lightyear UK Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 987226). Client money is held in segregated accounts, and eligible cash is covered by the FSCS up to £120,000. Investment protection applies up to £85,000 per eligible person.

FAQ

Do I have to invest the £100?

The referral terms focus on funding the account by the minimum amount. Whether you invest or keep it as cash is your call, but investing involves risk and your capital is at risk.

How long does it take to receive the reward?

Lightyear says rewards are usually awarded within around 10 business days after you qualify, but this is not guaranteed.

Can I withdraw the reward straight away?

Usually no. Lightyear's terms include a 6-month withdrawal restriction tied to the reward value. Plan accordingly.

Can I combine the referral reward with other Lightyear promotions?

Generally not, unless Lightyear's specific campaign terms say otherwise. Always check the latest promotion terms before signing up.

What happens if my identity check takes longer than expected?

Verification usually completes within minutes, but in rare cases it can take up to two working days. The 30-day funding window starts from the date your account is approved, so a brief delay should not affect your eligibility.

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Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Investing involves risk and you may get back less than you invest. Promotions can change or be withdrawn at any time. Always check Lightyear's latest terms before signing up.

This page includes affiliate or referral links. If you use them, CoolCuration may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

CoolCuration is not affiliated with Lightyear and is not authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to provide investment recommendations. Any mention of free shares or promotional offers is subject to the terms and conditions set by Lightyear. Investing involves risks, including the potential loss of capital. Always conduct your own research or consult a qualified financial adviser before making investment decisions.

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