We've all been there – you're at the checkout, card in hand, and suddenly your mind goes blank. What's that four-digit number again? Or perhaps you're setting up a new online account and need your PIN for verification. Frustrating, right? Especially when you need to access your funds or complete a crucial transaction.
The good news is that Nationwide is making it easier than ever to manage your PIN directly through their mobile banking app. As of later this year (2025), Nationwide is rolling out a new feature that will allow customers to view their existing PIN directly within the mobile banking app! This is a significant improvement, as previously, the only options were to request a reminder via post or visit a branch/ATM.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to check your PIN on the Nationwide app, along with other essential information about managing your PIN. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Get Ready for the Future - Confirm App Update Availability
First things first, let's make sure you're ready for this exciting new feature!
Sub-heading: Check Your App Version
The ability to view your PIN directly in the Nationwide app is a new feature being rolled out later in 2025. This means that if you're reading this before the full rollout, you might not see the option immediately.
- Action: Open your Nationwide Banking App.
- Action: Navigate to the "About" or "Settings" section of the app. Look for details on the app version.
- Check: Keep an eye on Nationwide's official announcements or their app store page (Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS) for updates regarding the "View PIN" feature. Ensure your app is updated to the latest version to access all new functionalities.
If you don't see the "View PIN" option immediately, don't worry! It's likely just a matter of waiting for the full rollout to all customers. In the meantime, the existing methods for PIN management (requesting a reminder via post) remain available.
Step 2: Accessing Your PIN (Once the Feature is Live)
Once the "View PIN" feature is live for all Nationwide app users, here's how you'll typically access it. While Nationwide hasn't released a step-by-step visual guide for this specific feature yet, based on how banking apps usually function and Nationwide's current app structure, this is the most likely path:
Sub-heading: Logging into Your Nationwide App
- Action: Open the Nationwide Banking App on your smartphone or tablet.
- Action: Log in securely using your chosen method:
- Passnumber: Enter your memorable 3-digit passnumber.
- Biometrics: If enabled, use your fingerprint or facial recognition for a quick and secure login.
Sub-heading: Navigating to Account or Card Services
Once logged in, you'll need to find the relevant section for managing your cards and PINs.
- Action: Look for a menu icon (often three horizontal lines or dots) or a "Settings" or "Details & Settings" option, typically located in the top corner of the screen.
- Action: Tap on the menu and then look for options like:
- "Cards"
- "Card Management"
- "Account Services"
- "Payments & Cards"
The exact wording may vary slightly depending on your app version and device.
Sub-heading: Locating the "View PIN" Option
Within the card management section, you should find the option to view your PIN.
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Action: Select the specific debit or credit card for which you want to view the PIN. If you have multiple cards, ensure you pick the correct one.
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Action: Look for an option explicitly stating "View PIN", "Show PIN", or something similar. This is the new functionality Nationwide is introducing.
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Security Prompt: For security reasons, you will likely be asked to confirm your identity again. This might involve:
- Re-entering your passnumber.
- Using your biometric authentication (fingerprint or face ID).
- Potentially a one-time passcode sent to your registered mobile number.
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Action: Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the security verification.
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Voilà! Once successfully verified, your PIN should be displayed on the screen. Remember to memorize it or make a note of it in a secure place, then close the app. Avoid writing your PIN directly on your card or keeping it in easily accessible locations.
Step 3: What to Do if the App Feature Isn't Yet Available (or for Alternative Methods)
If the "View PIN" feature hasn't rolled out to your app yet, or if you prefer alternative methods, Nationwide still provides ways to retrieve or change your PIN.
Sub-heading: Requesting a PIN Reminder via Internet Banking
This is a common and secure method provided by Nationwide.
- Action: Go to the Nationwide Internet Banking website (nationwide.co.uk) on your computer or mobile browser.
- Action: Log in to your Internet Bank account.
- Action: From the accounts overview page, choose the relevant account associated with the card for which you need the PIN.
- Action: Look for "Other account services" in the "View accounts" menu.
- Action: From the "Account services" menu, choose "Request a PIN reminder".
- Action: You'll likely need to enter the last 8 digits of your 16-digit card number for verification.
- Action: Select "Request PIN."
What happens next? Nationwide will send a PIN reminder to your registered address within 3 to 5 working days. This reminder will be your existing PIN, not a new one.
Sub-heading: Requesting a New PIN Over the Phone
If you prefer to speak to someone, you can request a new PIN by calling Nationwide.
- Action: Find Nationwide's customer service number on their official website (usually under "Contact us").
- Action: Call the designated number for forgotten PINs.
- Action: Be prepared to answer security questions to verify your identity.
- Action: A Nationwide representative will assist you in requesting a new PIN, which will also be sent to your registered address within 3 to 5 working days. Note: This will be a brand new PIN, not a reminder of your old one.
Sub-heading: Visiting a Nationwide Branch
For face-to-face assistance, a branch visit is always an option.
- Action: Locate your nearest Nationwide branch using their branch finder tool on their website.
- Action: Bring a form of valid identification, such as a passport or driving license, as you will need it to prove your identity.
- Action: A staff member will be able to help you request a new PIN reminder or a new PIN, which will be sent to your registered address. While they can help you with withdrawals or payments without your PIN, they cannot instantly provide you with your PIN at the counter.
Step 4: Unlocking a Locked PIN
Sometimes, you might remember your PIN but have entered it incorrectly too many times, leading to your PIN being locked. This is a security measure.
Sub-heading: Unlocking Your PIN at a Cash Machine (ATM)
This is the primary method for unlocking a locked PIN.
- Action: Find any cash machine (ATM) in the UK with the LINK sign on it.
- Action: Insert your card into the cash machine.
- Action: Enter your correct PIN.
- Action: Select "Other" and then "PIN services."
- Action: Choose "PIN unlock."
- Confirmation: The machine should confirm with a "successful" message, indicating your PIN is now unlocked.
Important Note: You cannot unlock your PIN at a Nationwide branch counter or by using a card reader. Only the customer can unlock their PIN at an ATM.
Step 5: Changing Your PIN (If You Know It)
If you know your current PIN and simply wish to change it, this is a straightforward process.
Sub-heading: Changing Your PIN at a Cash Machine (ATM)
- Action: Insert your card into any cash machine (ATM) in the UK with the LINK sign.
- Action: Enter your existing PIN.
- Action: Select "PIN services."
- Action: Choose "PIN change."
- Action: Follow the on-screen instructions to choose and confirm your new PIN.
A Note on Security and Future Updates
Nationwide is continuously working to enhance the security and convenience of their banking services. The introduction of viewing your PIN in the app is a testament to this commitment. Always be vigilant against phishing attempts and only access your banking services through the official Nationwide app or website. Nationwide will never ask for your full PIN, passnumber, or other sensitive details via email or text message.
This new app feature is designed to make managing your finances even easier and more accessible, putting you in greater control of your account security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check if the "View PIN" feature is available on my Nationwide app?
Keep your Nationwide app updated to the latest version and regularly check the "Details & Settings" or "Card Management" sections within the app. Nationwide will also announce the full rollout on their official website and potentially through in-app notifications.
How to unlock my Nationwide PIN if I entered it incorrectly too many times?
You can unlock your PIN at any UK cash machine (ATM) with the LINK sign. Insert your card, enter your correct PIN, select "Other," then "PIN services," and finally "PIN unlock."
How to request a PIN reminder if I don't want to use the app?
You can request a PIN reminder through Nationwide's Internet Banking. Log in, select the relevant account, go to "Other account services," then "Request a PIN reminder," and follow the prompts. The reminder will be sent to your registered address by post.
How to get a brand new PIN from Nationwide?
If you've forgotten your PIN entirely and don't want a reminder, you can request a brand new one by calling Nationwide's customer service or visiting a branch. A new PIN will be posted to your registered address.
How to change my Nationwide PIN if I know it?
You can change your PIN at any UK cash machine (ATM). Insert your card, enter your existing PIN, select "PIN services," and then "PIN change" to set a new one.
How to make payments or withdraw cash if I don't know my PIN?
If you don't know your PIN, you can visit a Nationwide branch with a valid ID (like a passport or driving license) to withdraw cash or make payments.
How to know if my Nationwide card reader can unlock my PIN?
Nationwide card readers cannot be used to unlock your PIN. PIN unlocking can only be done at a cash machine (ATM).
How to contact Nationwide customer service for PIN assistance?
You can find Nationwide's customer service phone number on their official website under the "Contact us" section.
How to ensure my PIN is kept secure?
Never write your PIN on your card or keep it in an easily accessible place. Memorize it and be cautious when entering it in public. Always cover the keypad when inputting your PIN.
How to find my nearest Nationwide branch?
You can use the "Branch finder" tool on the Nationwide website to locate your nearest branch.
