Have you ever found yourself staring at your screen, trying to log in to your Nationwide account, and then... that moment of dread? The one where you realize you can't remember your Passnumber? Don't worry, you're certainly not alone! It's a common hurdle, but thankfully, Nationwide provides several straightforward ways to help you find or reset it.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can regain access to your account with minimal fuss. We'll cover everything from using your existing online banking tools to reaching out to Nationwide directly.
Finding Your Nationwide Passnumber: A Step-by-Step Guide
Your Nationwide Passnumber is a six-digit number used to authenticate your identity when you use their Internet Banking or Banking App. It's a crucial part of your online security, and knowing how to manage it is key to seamless banking.
 |
| How Can I Find My Nationwide Passnumber |
Step 1: Let's Assess Your Situation – Do You Have Access to Other Login Methods?
Before we dive into the recovery process, let's figure out what tools you have at your disposal. This will determine the quickest and easiest path for you.
-
Do you have access to your Nationwide Internet Bank via a card reader?
- Yes: Great! This is often the most direct route.
- No: No problem, we have other options.
-
Do you have the Nationwide Banking App installed and can you log in using your fingerprint or facial recognition (if enabled)?
- Yes: Fantastic! The app offers a simple way to manage your security details.
- No: We'll explore other avenues.
-
Do you remember your Customer Number and other "memorable data" but just not the Passnumber?
- Yes: This information can be helpful for various recovery methods.
- No: We'll consider direct contact with Nationwide.
Step 2: Accessing Your Passnumber Through Internet Banking (with Card Reader)
If you have a Nationwide Visa debit card and a card reader, this is often the most straightforward way to manage your Passnumber.
Reminder: Reading twice often makes things clearer.
Sub-heading: Logging In with Your Card Reader
- Go to the Nationwide Internet Bank: Open your web browser and navigate to the official Nationwide website (www.nationwide.co.uk). Look for the "Log in" or "Internet Bank" option.
- Select "Log in using your card reader": On the login page, you'll typically see options to log in. Choose the one that specifies using a card reader.
- Insert your Visa Debit Card: Place your Nationwide Visa debit card into your card reader as instructed.
- Enter your Card PIN: The card reader will prompt you to enter your card's Personal Identification Number (PIN). Ensure you enter this securely and privately.
- Generate a Passcode: The card reader will generate a unique passcode. Enter this passcode into the designated field on the Nationwide Internet Bank login screen.
- Complete Login: Follow any further on-screen instructions to successfully log into your Internet Bank account.
Sub-heading: Locating Your Passnumber within Internet Banking
Once you're logged in:
- Navigate to "Manage": Look for a "Manage" tab or section, usually located at the top of the screen or in a prominent menu.
- Find "My Security": Within the "Manage" section, search for an option related to "My Security" or "Security Settings."
- Select "View or change my security settings": Click on this option to access your security preferences.
- Locate "My Passnumber/My memorable data": Within the security settings, you should see a section specifically for "My Passnumber" or "My memorable data."
- View or Change: From here, you should have the option to view your existing Passnumber or change it if you prefer. Follow the prompts to display your Passnumber.
Step 3: Resetting Your Passnumber Through the Nationwide Banking App
The Nationwide Banking App provides a convenient way to manage your Passnumber, especially if you have biometric login (fingerprint or facial recognition) enabled.
Sub-heading: Resetting from the App if You're Logged In
- Open the Nationwide Banking App: Launch the app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Log In (if not already): If you're not already logged in, use your usual method (Passnumber, fingerprint, or facial recognition).
- Access the Menu: Look for the menu icon, usually in the top right corner (often represented by three horizontal lines).
- Select "Details & Settings": From the menu, tap on "Details & Settings."
- Choose "Your details" or "Security": Navigate to a section related to "Your details" or directly to "Security."
- Find "Change Passnumber": You should see an option to "Change Passnumber." Tap on this.
- Follow On-Screen Instructions: The app will guide you through the process of resetting your Passnumber. This may involve confirming your identity with your card and card reader, or other security checks.
Sub-heading: Resetting from the App if You've Forgotten Your Passnumber
If you can't log into the app because you've forgotten your Passnumber:
- Open the Nationwide Banking App.
- Tap "Forgotten Passnumber" link: On the login screen, look for a prominent link that says "Forgotten Passnumber" or similar.
- Follow On-Screen Prompts: The app will then guide you through a security process, which will likely involve using your Visa debit card and a card reader to verify your identity. Follow the instructions carefully to set a new Passnumber.
Step 4: Contacting Nationwide Directly for Assistance
If the online methods aren't working for you, or if you prefer speaking to someone, contacting Nationwide's customer service is a reliable option.
QuickTip: Focus on one line if it feels important.
Sub-heading: Important Information to Have Ready
Before you call, ensure you have the following information to hand to expedite the process:
- Your Nationwide Customer Number (if you know it).
- Your Account Number(s).
- Your Date of Birth.
- Your Registered Address.
- Your Visa Debit Card (you may be asked for details from it).
- Any "memorable data" you might recall setting up.
Sub-heading: Nationwide Contact Channels
-
Telephone Banking:
- From the UK: Call 03457 30 20 11.
- From Abroad: Call +44 1793 65 67 89.
- Lines are typically open Monday to Saturday, 8 am to 8 pm, and Sundays 9 am to 5 pm (UK time). Check the Nationwide website for the most current operating hours.
- When you call, explain that you have forgotten your Passnumber and need to reset or retrieve it. They will guide you through the necessary security checks.
-
Visit a Nationwide Branch:
- If you prefer in-person assistance, you can visit your nearest Nationwide branch.
- Remember to bring a form of identification (e.g., passport, driving license) and your Nationwide debit card, as they will need to verify your identity.
- A branch advisor will be able to help you reset your Passnumber on the spot. You can find your local branch using the "Branch Finder" tool on the Nationwide website.
Step 5: Maintaining Your Security: Tips for Future Passnumber Management
Once you've successfully found or reset your Passnumber, take a moment to ensure you won't face this issue again.
- Memorise your Passnumber: It's crucial not to write it down where others can find it.
- Don't share your Passnumber with anyone: Nationwide will never ask you for your full Passnumber. Be wary of any requests for this information.
- Consider using the Banking App's biometric features: If your device supports it, setting up fingerprint or facial recognition for app login can make accessing your account even easier and more secure, reducing the reliance on remembering your Passnumber for daily logins.
- Review your security settings regularly: Periodically check your security settings in Internet Banking or the Banking App to ensure they are up-to-date and that you're comfortable with your chosen methods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Nationwide Passnumbers
How to reset my Nationwide Passnumber online?
You can reset your Passnumber online through the Nationwide Internet Bank (using a card reader) or the Nationwide Banking App (using the "Forgotten Passnumber" link or within settings if already logged in).
How to find my Nationwide Passnumber if I'm locked out of online banking?
If you're locked out due to incorrect Passnumber attempts, you can regain access by logging into the Internet Bank using your Visa debit card and card reader, or by using the "Forgotten Passnumber" option in the Banking App.
Tip: Share one insight from this post with a friend.
How to retrieve my Nationwide Passnumber without a card reader?
If you don't have a card reader, you can often reset your Passnumber using the Nationwide Banking App if you have biometric login enabled. Otherwise, you'll need to contact Nationwide's telephone banking or visit a branch.
How to change my Nationwide Passnumber?
You can change your Passnumber by logging into the Nationwide Internet Bank (Go to "Manage" > "My Security" > "View or change my security settings" > "My Passnumber/My memorable data") or through the Nationwide Banking App (Go to "Details & Settings" > "Change Passnumber").
How to get a new Nationwide Passnumber by post?
While you typically reset it digitally, if you're unable to use online methods, contacting Nationwide's telephone banking or visiting a branch can lead to them sending you a new Passnumber in the post.
How to contact Nationwide customer service for Passnumber help?
You can call Nationwide's telephone banking on 03457 30 20 11 (UK) or +44 1793 65 67 89 (abroad).
Tip: Don’t skip the small notes — they often matter.
How to use my Nationwide Passnumber with the Banking App?
Once you've set up your Passnumber, you can use it as a login method for the Nationwide Banking App, alongside or instead of biometric options like fingerprint or facial recognition.
How to ensure my Nationwide Passnumber is secure?
Memorise your Passnumber, never write it down where it can be found, and never share it with anyone. Nationwide will never ask for your full Passnumber.
How to find my Nationwide Customer Number if I also forgot my Passnumber?
Your Customer Number can often be found in the Banking App under "Details & Settings" > "Your details" or on your online banking registration welcome letter. Current account holders can also use a customer number look-up tool with their debit card and card reader on the Nationwide website.
How to log in to Nationwide Internet Bank without a Passnumber?
You can log into the Nationwide Internet Bank using your Visa debit card and a card reader. This method bypasses the need for your Passnumber.
 |
