Changing your PIN for your Nationwide account is a simple yet crucial security measure. Whether you've forgotten it, it's been locked, or you simply want to refresh it for peace of mind, Nationwide offers several convenient ways to manage your PIN. Let's dive into a comprehensive guide to help you through the process, step by step!
Feeling a bit lost about your Nationwide PIN? Don't worry, you're in good company! Many of us find ourselves needing to update or retrieve this vital piece of information. The good news is, Nationwide has made the process quite straightforward. Ready to get your PIN sorted? Let's begin!
Step 1: Understand Why You Need to Change Your PIN
Before we jump into how to change your PIN, it's helpful to understand why you might be doing so. This will often dictate the best method to use.
Sub-heading: Scenario A: You Know Your Current PIN and Want to Change It
Perhaps you've had the same PIN for years and want a fresh start, or you suspect someone might have seen you enter it. In this scenario, you're looking for a proactive security update.
Tip: Focus on sections most relevant to you.
Sub-heading: Scenario B: You've Forgotten Your PIN
It happens to the best of us! If your mind has gone blank, you'll need to request a reminder or a brand new PIN from Nationwide.
Sub-heading: Scenario C: Your PIN is Locked
If you've entered your PIN incorrectly three times, Nationwide will lock it for security. This prevents unauthorized access, but it also means you'll need to unlock it before you can use your card again.
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| How To Change Pin Nationwide |
Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Method for PIN Management
Nationwide offers a few ways to manage your PIN, depending on your situation and what's most convenient for you.
Tip: Take notes for easier recall later.
Method 1: Using a Nationwide ATM (Recommended for Known PIN Changes and Unlocking)
This is often the quickest and most direct way to change your PIN if you know your current one, or to unlock a locked PIN.
- Availability: Any Nationwide cash machine in the UK with the LINK symbol.
- Speed: Instant for changes and unlocking.
Here's how to do it:
- Insert Your Card: Head to your nearest Nationwide or LINK-enabled ATM and insert your debit card.
- Enter Your Current PIN: When prompted, enter your existing PIN.
- Navigate to PIN Services: On the ATM screen, look for an option like "Other" or "Account Services" and then select "PIN Services."
- Choose Your Action:
- To Change Your PIN: Select "PIN Change" or a similar option. You will then be prompted to enter your new desired PIN, usually twice to confirm. Make sure it's something memorable but not easily guessable!
- To Unlock Your PIN: Select "PIN Unlock." The machine should then display a "successful" message, indicating your PIN has been unlocked.
- Confirm and Complete: Follow any on-screen instructions to confirm your choice. Remember to take your card and receipt.
Method 2: Requesting a New PIN or PIN Reminder via Internet Bank
If you've forgotten your PIN and can't use an ATM, or prefer to handle things from the comfort of your home, Nationwide's Internet Bank is a great option. Note: You cannot directly choose a new PIN through Internet Banking; you can only request a reminder of your existing PIN or a completely new one, which will be sent to you by post.
Tip: Look for small cues in wording.
- Availability: 24/7, via your computer or mobile device.
- Speed: Your new PIN or reminder will arrive by post within 3 to 5 working days.
Here's how to do it:
- Log In to Internet Bank: Go to the Nationwide website and log in to your Internet Bank account. You'll need your customer number and memorable data/passnumber.
- Navigate to Account Overview: From your accounts overview page, select the relevant account for which you need to manage the PIN.
- Access PIN Options: Look for a section like "Other account services" or "View accounts menu." From there, select "Request a PIN reminder" or "Request a new PIN."
- Provide Card Details: You may be asked to enter the last 8 digits of your 16-digit card number to verify.
- Confirm Request: Select "Request PIN" to confirm. Nationwide will then send your PIN reminder or a brand new PIN to your registered address.
Method 3: Requesting a New PIN or PIN Reminder Over the Phone
For those who prefer to speak to someone directly, or if you don't have access to online banking or an ATM, telephone banking is a viable option.
- Availability: During Nationwide's customer service hours.
- Speed: Your new PIN or reminder will arrive by post within 3 to 5 working days.
Here's how to do it:
Tip: Look out for transitions like ‘however’ or ‘but’.
- Find the Right Number: Call Nationwide's general enquiries number. For current accounts, it's typically 03457 30 20 11 (from the UK) or +44 1793 65 67 89 (from abroad). For credit cards, call 03456 00 66 11 (UK) or +44 2476 43 89 97 (abroad). Always check the official Nationwide website for the most up-to-date contact numbers.
- Verify Your Identity: Be prepared to answer security questions to confirm your identity. This might involve your customer number, account number, or details from your debit card.
- Request PIN: Clearly state that you wish to request a new PIN or a PIN reminder.
- Confirm Address: The representative will confirm your registered address where the new PIN or reminder will be sent.
Method 4: Visiting a Nationwide Branch
If you prefer face-to-face assistance, or if you need to withdraw cash or make a payment while waiting for a new PIN to arrive, a branch visit is a good choice.
- Availability: During branch opening hours.
- Speed: While they cannot give you a new PIN on the spot, they can help you request one (which will then be posted) and assist with transactions without your PIN.
Here's how to do it:
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- Find Your Nearest Branch: Use the Nationwide branch finder tool on their website.
- Bring ID: Always remember to bring some form of identification with you, such as your passport or driving licence.
- Speak to a Staff Member: Explain your situation – whether you need to request a new PIN or require assistance with transactions.
- Request PIN (if applicable): They will help you initiate the request for a new PIN or reminder, which will be sent to your registered address.
Step 3: Activating Your New or Unlocked PIN (Important!)
Once you've received a new PIN in the post, or if you've unlocked your PIN at an ATM, there's one more crucial step to ensure it's fully active for all transactions.
Sub-heading: Performing a Chip and PIN Transaction
For new or newly unlocked PINs, you must perform a Chip and PIN transaction before you can use contactless payments or simply withdraw cash without issues.
- How to do it: Use your card at a shop or ATM for a transaction that requires you to insert your card and enter your PIN. This could be a small purchase or a cash withdrawal. Once this is done, your PIN will be fully active, and your contactless functionality should also be restored if it was previously affected by a locked PIN.
Step 4: Secure Your New PIN
Once you have your new PIN, it's vital to keep it secure.
- Memorize it: Try to commit your PIN to memory as soon as possible.
- Never write it down: Avoid writing your PIN anywhere, especially not on your card or in your wallet.
- Don't share it: Nationwide, or any legitimate organization, will never ask you for your full PIN. Be wary of any calls, texts, or emails requesting this information.
- Shred old PIN reminders: Once you've memorized your new PIN, securely shred any paper reminders you received.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common questions about managing your Nationwide PIN, with quick answers:
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How to unlock a Nationwide PIN?
- You can unlock your Nationwide PIN at any UK ATM with the LINK symbol by inserting your card, entering your PIN (if remembered), selecting "Other" or "Account Services," then "PIN Services," and finally "PIN Unlock."
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How to get a new Nationwide PIN if forgotten?
- You can request a new PIN via Nationwide's Internet Bank, over the phone, or by visiting a branch. A new PIN will be sent to your registered address by post within 3 to 5 working days.
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How to change my Nationwide PIN at an ATM?
- Insert your card, enter your current PIN, select "PIN Services" (or similar), then "PIN Change," and follow the prompts to enter your new desired PIN twice.
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How to check my Nationwide PIN online?
- Currently, you cannot view your existing PIN directly online or via the app. You can only request a PIN reminder or a new PIN to be sent to you by post via the Internet Bank. Nationwide has stated that customers will be able to view their existing PIN via the Mobile Banking App "later this year" (as of early 2025).
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How to activate a new Nationwide debit card and PIN?
- Your new debit card is usually active for online payments upon arrival. To activate your PIN for ATM withdrawals and Chip and PIN purchases, you'll need to use it for the first time in a Chip and PIN transaction (e.g., at an ATM or in a shop).
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How to find Nationwide's customer service number for PIN issues?
- For current account general enquiries, call 03457 30 20 11 (UK) or +44 1793 65 67 89 (abroad). Always check the official Nationwide website for the most current contact details.
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How to change my Nationwide credit card PIN?
- Similar to debit cards, you can typically change your Nationwide credit card PIN at a Nationwide or LINK-enabled ATM if you know your current PIN. If you've forgotten it, you'll need to request a new one by phone or via Internet Banking.
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How to use my Nationwide card if my PIN is locked?
- While your PIN is locked, contactless payments may still work for a limited number of transactions. For full functionality, you'll need to unlock your PIN at an ATM. You can also visit a branch with ID to withdraw cash or make payments.
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How to ensure my new PIN is secure?
- Memorize your PIN, never write it down, never share it with anyone, and shred any physical reminders once you've committed it to memory.
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How to get a PIN reminder from Nationwide?
- You can request a PIN reminder through the Internet Bank or by calling Nationwide's customer service. The reminder will be sent to your registered address by post.
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