Do you need to cancel your Nationwide card? Perhaps it's a credit card you no longer use, or a debit card linked to an account you're closing. Whatever the reason, it's a straightforward process, but knowing the right steps can save you time and hassle. Let's get you sorted!
A Comprehensive Guide: How to Cancel Your Nationwide Card
Cancelling a Nationwide card, whether it's a credit card or a debit card, requires a few key considerations to ensure a smooth process. It's not just about cutting up the plastic; it involves managing any outstanding balances, direct debits, and ensuring your finances remain in order.
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| How To Cancel Nationwide Card |
Step 1: Understand Your Card Type and Why You're Cancelling
- Hey there! Before we dive in, let's get clear on a couple of things. Are you looking to cancel a Nationwide debit card linked to your current account, or is it a Nationwide credit card? The process can differ slightly, especially concerning outstanding balances.
- Why are you cancelling? This might seem obvious, but your reason can influence your approach.
- Lost or Stolen Card: This is an emergency and requires immediate action to protect your funds.
- No Longer Needed: Perhaps you've switched banks, paid off a credit card, or simply don't use it anymore.
- Damaged Card: If your card is damaged but you still need access to your account, you'll generally replace it, not cancel the account.
Step 2: Prepare for Cancellation
Before you pick up the phone or log in, gather some essential information and make some preparations. This will make the process much quicker and smoother.
Sub-heading: Check Your Balances and Payments
- For Credit Cards:
- Outstanding Balance: It's crucial to know your exact outstanding balance. You can usually find this on your latest statement, via the Internet Bank, or by calling Nationwide.
- Aim to repay your outstanding balance in full before cancellation. While you can continue repaying after the account is closed, it's cleaner to settle it beforehand.
- Direct Debits/Standing Orders: Are any recurring payments linked to your credit card? If so, you'll need to update these with the respective service providers to avoid missed payments. This is extremely important to prevent late fees or service interruptions.
- For Debit Cards (and linked Current Accounts):
- Clear any Overdrafts or Pending Charges: Your account must not be overdrawn, and all pending charges should be cleared. Add enough money to cover any outstanding charges.
- Linked Savings Accounts: If you have any savings accounts linked to your current account, you might need to close those too.
- Direct Debits/Standing Orders: All direct debits and standing orders from your current account will need to be transferred to a new account before you close your Nationwide account. Provide your new bank details to all relevant parties (utilities, subscriptions, salary, etc.).
- Positive Balance: Any money left in your current account after closure will usually be sent to your registered address by cheque. Ensure your address is up to date.
Sub-heading: Gather Your Information
Have the following details handy:
QuickTip: If you skimmed, go back for detail.
- Your Nationwide Customer Number / Account Number.
- Your Sort Code (for current accounts).
- Your Card Number (the 16-digit number on the front).
- Your Personal Details: Full name, address, date of birth.
- Security Information: Your passnumber or memorable information for online banking/phone banking.
- Identification: If visiting a branch, bring photo ID (passport, driving licence) and proof of address.
Step 3: Choose Your Cancellation Method
Nationwide offers several ways to cancel your card, depending on the card type and your preference.
Sub-heading: Option A: Online (Internet Bank / Mobile Banking App)
- Lost or Stolen Cards: This is the fastest way to report a lost or stolen card, which automatically cancels it and prompts a replacement.
- Banking App:
- Log in to the Nationwide Banking App.
- Go to the profile icon (usually top-right).
- Choose Manage Cards.
- Select the card that's lost or stolen.
- Select Report as lost or stolen.
- Internet Bank:
- Log in to the Internet Bank.
- Go to My messages (or "Need help? Send us a message" from the left-hand menu).
- Select Compose new message (or "Chat with us").
- Follow the prompts to report a lost or stolen card.
- Banking App:
- Cancelling a Credit Card (if balance is repaid): You may be able to send a secure message via the Internet Bank to request closure once your balance is fully settled.
- Closing a Current Account (and associated Debit Card):
- Log in to the Internet Bank.
- Choose the account you want to close.
- Select Other Account Services.
- Choose Close Account.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Sub-heading: Option B: Over the Phone (Recommended for Credit Card Cancellation)
Calling Nationwide is often the most direct way to cancel a card, especially credit cards where balance considerations are involved.
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General Enquiries & Debit Cards (Current Accounts, Savings):
- From the UK: 0800 055 66 22 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- From Abroad: +44 1793 65 67 89 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
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Credit Cards:
- From the UK: 03456 00 66 11 (Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm; Sundays and bank holidays, 9am to 5pm)
- From Abroad: +44 2476 43 89 97 (Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm GMT; Sunday 9am – 5pm GMT)
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When you call:
- Clearly state your intention to cancel your card.
- Be prepared to answer security questions to verify your identity.
- Confirm any outstanding balances and how they will be settled.
- Ask for a confirmation number or an email confirming the cancellation.
Sub-heading: Option C: In Branch
If you prefer face-to-face assistance or have complex queries, visiting a Nationwide branch is an option.
Tip: Take a sip of water, then continue fresh.
- Find your nearest branch using the Nationwide website's branch finder.
- Bring: Your card, photo ID (passport, driving licence), and potentially proof of address.
- A staff member will guide you through the process, confirm your identity, and help with any outstanding issues. It's a good idea to call ahead to plan your visit and check opening hours.
Sub-heading: Option D: By Post
While less common for immediate card cancellation (especially for lost/stolen cards), you can write to Nationwide to close a current account.
- In your letter, include:
- Your full name and address.
- Your sort code and account number.
- Your clear request to close the account and cancel the associated card.
- Your signature.
- Send to: Any Nationwide branch address (you can find these on their website or official correspondence).
- Note: This method is generally not suitable for urgent card cancellations like lost/stolen reports.
Step 4: Post-Cancellation Steps
Cancelling the card is a significant step, but there are a few things to do afterward to ensure everything is finalized.
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Sub-heading: Destroy Your Old Card
- Once confirmed cancelled, securely destroy your physical card. Cut it into several pieces, paying particular attention to the magnetic strip and chip. This prevents any unauthorized use.
Sub-heading: Monitor Your Statements
- Even after cancellation, you may still receive a final statement (especially for credit cards if there was an outstanding balance). Review these carefully to ensure no unexpected charges appear and that your balance is indeed zero.
- You should be able to view your statements on the Internet Bank until your credit card account is fully closed.
Sub-heading: Confirm Account Closure (for current accounts)
- If you've closed a current account, keep an eye out for any final cheques from Nationwide if there was a positive balance.
- Consider contacting Nationwide a few weeks after your request to confirm the account has been fully closed and there are no lingering issues.
Important Considerations:
- Credit Score Impact: Closing a credit card can sometimes have a minor, temporary impact on your credit score, especially if it was an older account or one with a high credit limit. However, the impact is usually minimal if you manage your other credit responsibly.
- Recurring Payments: Double-check all recurring payments linked to the card you're cancelling. This includes subscriptions, online services, gym memberships, and anything else set up to automatically charge your card. Update them with new card details from another account.
- Joint Accounts: If it's a joint account, all account holders may need to consent to the closure, or at least be aware of it.
- Brexit Impact (for EU/EEA residents): If you are a UK national living in the EU/EEA, Nationwide has specific instructions regarding credit card closures due to Brexit. They advise making alternative financial arrangements and provide contact details for support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to report a lost or stolen Nationwide card quickly?
You can report a lost or stolen Nationwide card instantly via the Nationwide Banking App or through the Internet Bank by sending a secure message. Alternatively, call their dedicated lost/stolen card line: 0800 055 66 22 (UK) or +44 1793 65 67 89 (abroad).
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
How to cancel a Nationwide credit card with an outstanding balance?
You can cancel a Nationwide credit card even with an outstanding balance. You will need to continue making payments according to your terms and conditions until the balance is fully repaid. It's often best to call Nationwide directly to discuss payment options and the cancellation process.
How to close a Nationwide current account and cancel the associated debit card?
You can close your Nationwide current account and cancel the debit card via the Internet Bank (under "Other Account Services" then "Close Account"), by visiting a branch, or by writing a letter. Ensure all direct debits and standing orders are moved and the account is not overdrawn before closing.
How to find my Nationwide customer number?
Your Nationwide customer number is typically found on your bank statements, on your debit or credit card (sometimes on the back), or within your online banking profile. If you can't find it, Nationwide customer service can assist after verifying your identity.
QuickTip: Break reading into digestible chunks.
How to confirm my Nationwide card cancellation?
When cancelling over the phone or in a branch, ask for a confirmation number or request an email/letter confirming the cancellation. If using online banking, keep a screenshot of the confirmation page or any messages. You can also monitor your statements for final closure.
How to manage direct debits and standing orders before cancelling my Nationwide card?
Before cancelling your card or closing your account, it is crucial to move all direct debits and standing orders to a new account. Contact each service provider (e.g., utility companies, subscription services) and provide them with your new bank details.
How to get a new Nationwide card if mine is damaged but I don't want to cancel the account?
If your Nationwide card is damaged, you generally don't need to cancel your account. You can request a replacement card via the banking app, Internet Bank, or by calling Nationwide customer service.
How to cancel a Nationwide card if I am abroad?
If you are abroad, you can still cancel your Nationwide card by calling their international numbers: +44 1793 65 67 89 for current accounts/debit cards or +44 2476 43 89 97 for credit cards. Online banking and the banking app are also accessible internationally.
How to ensure no lingering charges after cancelling my Nationwide card?
After cancelling, diligently review your final statements to ensure no unexpected charges appear. For credit cards, ensure the balance reaches zero. For current accounts, confirm the account is fully closed and any remaining funds have been returned.
How to re-open a Nationwide card or account after cancellation?
Generally, once a card or account is formally cancelled or closed, it cannot be simply "re-opened." You would typically need to apply for a new card or open a new account with Nationwide, subject to their eligibility criteria and a new application process.
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