Feeling a bit stumped trying to remember your Nationwide passnumber? Don't worry, you're not alone! It's incredibly common to forget login details in today's digital world, especially with so many different accounts to manage. The good news is that Nationwide Building Society has clear and secure processes in place to help you regain access to your online banking, banking app, or telephone banking services.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of how to find or reset your Nationwide passnumber, ensuring you can get back to managing your finances with ease. Let's dive in!
Understanding Your Nationwide Passnumber
Before we delve into the steps, let's quickly clarify what a Nationwide passnumber is. Your passnumber is a six-digit number that Nationwide uses to authenticate your identity when you access their Internet Banking or Banking App. It's a crucial part of their security measures, ensuring that only you can access your accounts.
How To Find Out Nationwide Passnumber |
Step 1: Assess Your Situation – What Access Do You Still Have?
The first and most important step is to figure out what access you still have. This will determine the quickest and easiest path to regaining your passnumber.
Sub-heading: Do you have access to the Nationwide Banking App on your phone?
This is often the most convenient option! If you can still log in to the Nationwide Banking App using biometrics (fingerprint or face ID) or even by entering just three specific digits of your passnumber, you're in a great position.
Tip: Keep your attention on the main thread.
Sub-heading: Do you have a Nationwide Visa Debit Card and Card Reader?
The card reader is a small, handheld device provided by Nationwide that works with your debit card to generate unique passcodes for secure login and transactions. This is a very common and effective method for passnumber resets.
Sub-heading: Are you completely locked out of all online and app access?
If you can't log in to the app, don't have a card reader, or have entered incorrect details multiple times and are now locked out, don't panic. There are still ways to help you.
Step 2: Resetting Your Passnumber via the Nationwide Banking App (Easiest Method!)
If you have access to the Nationwide Banking App, this is usually the most straightforward way to reset your passnumber.
Sub-heading: For users who can still log in:
- Open the Nationwide Banking App: Launch the app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Log in: Use your biometric login (fingerprint/Face ID) or enter the requested digits from your existing passnumber.
- Navigate to Security Settings: Once logged in, look for a "Menu" icon (usually in the top right corner) or a "Details & Settings" or "Manage" section.
- Find "My security" or "View or change my security settings": This section will typically contain options related to your login credentials.
- Locate "My Passnumber" or "Change Passnumber": Tap on this option.
- Follow On-Screen Instructions: The app will guide you through the process of setting a new passnumber. You may be prompted to use your Visa debit card and card reader for this step as an extra layer of security.
Sub-heading: For users who are locked out of the app but see a "Forgotten passnumber" link:
- Open the Nationwide Banking App: Launch the app.
- Tap "Forgotten passnumber": This link should be visible on the login screen if you're unable to proceed.
- Use your Visa Debit Card and Card Reader: The app will instruct you to use your card reader to generate a code. Follow the on-screen prompts carefully.
- Set a New Passnumber: Once your identity is verified, you'll be able to create a new six-digit passnumber.
Step 3: Resetting Your Passnumber via Nationwide Internet Banking
If you prefer using a computer or can't access the app, the Nationwide Internet Bank is another excellent option.
Tip: Be mindful — one idea at a time.
Sub-heading: For users who can still log in:
- Go to the Nationwide Website: Open your web browser and navigate to the official Nationwide Building Society website (nationwide.co.uk).
- Log in to Internet Banking: Click on the "Log in" button for Internet Banking.
- Enter Your Customer Number and Date of Birth: You'll need these details to initiate the login process.
- Choose Your Login Method: You'll typically have the option to log in using your passnumber and a text message code, or your debit card and card reader. If you know your passnumber, proceed with that. If not, the card reader method is your best bet for a reset.
- Navigate to Security Settings: Once logged in, look for a "Manage" tab or "My security" section at the top of the screen.
- Find "View or change my security settings": This will lead you to the option to modify your passnumber.
- Select "My Passnumber" and "Change": Follow the instructions to set your new passnumber. You will likely need your card reader to authorise this change.
Sub-heading: For users who are locked out of Internet Banking or have forgotten their passnumber:
- Go to the Nationwide Website: Open your web browser and navigate to nationwide.co.uk.
- Click "Log in" for Internet Banking.
- Look for "Forgotten your login details?" or similar link: This will typically lead you to a page where you can reset your credentials.
- Choose to reset your Passnumber: You will likely be guided to a page that requires your customer number and your card reader to proceed.
- Utilize your Visa Debit Card and Card Reader: The system will prompt you to use your card reader to generate a unique code to verify your identity. Ensure you have your card reader readily available.
- Follow the Prompts: The online system will walk you through the steps to create a brand new passnumber.
Step 4: Contacting Nationwide Directly (When Other Methods Aren't Possible)
If you're unable to use the app or online banking for a passnumber reset, don't worry! Nationwide's customer service team is there to help.
Sub-heading: Calling Nationwide Telephone Banking:
- Find the Correct Number: For UK customers, the general Nationwide contact number is 03457 30 20 11. If you're abroad, the number is +44 1793 65 67 89. You can also find specific numbers for online banking queries on their "Contact Us" page.
- Have Your Details Ready: Be prepared to provide identifying information such as your customer number, account number, or debit card details.
- Explain Your Situation: Clearly state that you have forgotten your passnumber and need to reset it.
- Follow Their Instructions: The customer service representative will guide you through the verification process and help you set up a new passnumber. They may send you a new passnumber in the post, which you'll then need to use to register for online/app access again.
Sub-heading: Visiting a Nationwide Branch:
- Locate Your Nearest Branch: Use the "Branch Finder" on the Nationwide website to find a convenient branch.
- Bring Identification: This is crucial! You will need to bring some form of valid photo identification (e.g., passport, driving license) and proof of address.
- Speak to a Member of Staff: Explain that you need to reset your passnumber. They will be able to verify your identity in person and assist you with setting up a new one or initiating the process for a new one to be sent to you.
Step 5: Important Security Reminders for Your New Passnumber
Once you have successfully obtained or reset your Nationwide passnumber, it's vital to follow these security best practices:
- Memorize it: Do not write your passnumber down where others can find it. Commit it to memory.
- Keep it confidential: Never share your passnumber with anyone, even if they claim to be from Nationwide. Nationwide will never ask you for your full passnumber.
- Create a strong, unique number: While it's a 6-digit number, avoid easily guessable combinations like birthdays or sequential numbers.
- Consider Nationwide's Biometrics: If you have a compatible device, enabling fingerprint or facial recognition on the Nationwide Banking App can offer a secure and convenient alternative to always entering your passnumber.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to reset my Nationwide passnumber if I don't have a card reader?
You can usually reset it via the Banking App using the "Forgotten passnumber" link if you have a compatible device and your Visa debit card, or by contacting Nationwide's telephone banking or visiting a branch.
How to get a new Nationwide card reader?
You can order a new card reader through Nationwide's Internet Bank, the Banking App, or by contacting their customer service team via phone or in a branch.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
How to log in to Nationwide Internet Banking without a passnumber?
If you've forgotten your passnumber, you'll need to use your Visa debit card and card reader to log in and then reset it, or use the "Forgotten passnumber" link on the login page which will prompt you to use your card reader.
How to use biometrics to log into the Nationwide Banking App?
Once you have the app installed, go to "Details & Settings" or "Security settings" within the app to enable and set up fingerprint or facial recognition (e.g., Touch ID/Face ID) if your device supports it.
How to find my Nationwide customer number?
Your customer number can be found in the Banking App (under "Details & Settings" > "Your details"), on your online banking registration welcome letter, or, if you're a current account customer, by using your Visa debit card and card reader with the customer number lookup tool on their website.
How to reactivate a locked Nationwide online banking account?
If you're locked out due to too many incorrect attempts, you can usually regain access by logging in using your Visa debit card and card reader, or by contacting Nationwide customer service.
QuickTip: Short pauses improve understanding.
How to change my Nationwide memorable data?
You can change your memorable data by logging into Nationwide Internet Banking, going to "Manage my details and settings" > "My security" > "View or change my security settings." You will likely need your card reader to authorise this change.
How to contact Nationwide customer service for help with my passnumber?
You can call Nationwide's main contact number, 03457 30 20 11 (within the UK), or +44 1793 65 67 89 (from abroad). Alternatively, visit their "Contact Us" page on the website for specific department numbers.
How to ensure my Nationwide passnumber is secure?
Always memorize your passnumber, never share it, avoid writing it down, and choose a unique, non-obvious combination of digits. Utilize biometric login options on the app if available.
How to get a new passnumber if I registered for Telephone Banking?
If you've forgotten your Telephone Banking passnumber, you will typically need to re-register for Telephone Banking. This can be done by calling the Telephone Banking service directly or by visiting a Nationwide branch.