Have you ever been in that frustrating situation where you're standing at a checkout, card in hand, ready to pay, and suddenly... poof... your PIN vanishes from your memory? Or perhaps you're trying to access your Nationwide account via their app, and you can't quite recall that all-important number. Don't worry, you're not alone! Forgetting a PIN is a common occurrence, but thankfully, Nationwide provides several ways to help you get back on track.
While directly "viewing" your PIN within the Nationwide app isn't a feature that has been widely available until very recently (or is still rolling out), the good news is that Nationwide is working on enabling customers to view their existing PIN via the Mobile Banking App later this year (2025). Until then, or if you need it sooner, there are established methods to either retrieve a reminder or request a new one.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various steps to find or reset your Nationwide PIN, ensuring you can always access your funds and manage your accounts with ease.
How to Find Out Your PIN on the Nationwide App (and Alternative Methods)
Let's dive into the specifics!
Step 1: Have you tried the most recent app updates?
Before we go into the traditional methods, it's crucial to acknowledge that banking apps are constantly evolving. Nationwide has stated that later in 2025, customers will be able to view their existing PIN via the Mobile Banking App.
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Check for App Updates: First things first, ensure your Nationwide app is fully updated to the latest version. Head to your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS) and see if there are any pending updates for the Nationwide Banking App. An older version might not have the newest features.
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Explore the 'Details & Settings' or 'Security' Sections (once updated): Once updated, navigate through the app. Look for sections like "Details & Settings," "Security," or "Account Services." Nationwide is implementing this feature, so the exact placement might vary slightly, but it's likely to be in a secure area where your personal information is managed. Keep an eye out for an option like "View PIN" or "PIN Reminder."
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Important Note: Even with this new feature, for security reasons, it's highly unlikely you'll be able to simply see your PIN displayed immediately without further verification, such as entering your passnumber, using biometric authentication (fingerprint/Face ID), or a one-time passcode.
If the in-app viewing feature isn't yet live for you, or if you prefer a different method, proceed to the following steps.
Step 2: Requesting a PIN Reminder via the Internet Bank
The Nationwide Internet Bank is a reliable way to request a PIN reminder that will be sent to your registered address.
Sub-heading 2.1: Logging in to the Internet Bank
- Open your web browser: Go to the official Nationwide website and look for the "Log in" button for Internet Banking.
- Enter your login details: You'll need your customer number or username, and your passnumber or password. If you've forgotten these, you'll need to go through the online banking forgotten details process first.
Sub-heading 2.2: Navigating to PIN Services
- Access your accounts: Once logged in, you'll typically see an overview of your accounts. Choose the relevant account for which you need the PIN.
- Find "Other account services": Look for a menu option usually labelled "Other account services" or similar. This often contains various self-service options.
- Select "Request a PIN reminder": Within the "Account services" menu, you should find an option to "Request a PIN reminder."
- Enter required card details: You will likely be asked to enter the last 8 digits of your 16-digit card number to confirm your request.
- Confirm and send: Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm your request. Nationwide will then send a PIN reminder to your registered address. Expect this to arrive within 3 to 5 working days.
Step 3: Requesting a New PIN or Reminder Over the Phone
If you prefer to speak to someone, Nationwide's customer service can assist you with requesting a new PIN or a reminder of your existing one.
- Find the correct contact number: Go to the "Contact Us" section on the Nationwide website to find the appropriate phone number for banking enquiries.
- Have your details ready: Before you call, ensure you have your account details and any security information ready, as you'll need to verify your identity.
- Speak to a representative: Explain that you need to request a PIN reminder or a new PIN. They will guide you through the process, which will involve identity verification questions.
- Confirmation of postage: Similar to the Internet Bank method, your PIN reminder or new PIN will be sent to your registered address by post. This typically takes 3 to 5 working days.
Step 4: Visiting a Nationwide Branch
For a more personal touch, or if you're unable to use the online or phone services, visiting a Nationwide branch is another viable option.
- Locate your nearest branch: Use the branch finder tool on the Nationwide website to find a branch convenient for you.
- Bring identification: Crucially, remember to bring a valid form of identification with you, such as your passport or driving licence. This is essential for verifying your identity.
- Speak to a member of staff: Inform a staff member that you need assistance with your PIN. They will guide you through the process and help you request a new PIN or a reminder.
- Postage of PIN: While they can help initiate the request, the actual PIN reminder or new PIN will still be sent to your registered address by post, usually within 3 to 5 working days, for security reasons.
Step 5: What to do if your PIN is Locked
It's important to differentiate between forgetting your PIN and having your PIN locked. Your PIN gets locked if you enter it incorrectly three times. This is a security measure.
Sub-heading 5.1: Unlocking a Locked PIN at an ATM
- Find a cash machine: You can unlock your PIN at any UK cash machine that displays the LINK sign.
- Insert your card: Put your Nationwide card into the ATM.
- Enter your correct PIN: Even if it's locked, you'll need to enter the correct PIN. If you've forgotten it entirely, you'll need to request a reminder or new PIN first (Steps 2, 3, or 4).
- Select "Other" then "PIN Services": Navigate through the ATM menu.
- Choose "PIN Unlock": Select this option.
- Confirmation: The machine should display a "successful" message, confirming your PIN is now unlocked. You may then need to make a Chip and PIN purchase to fully reactivate contactless payments if they were affected.
Sub-heading 5.2: Unlocking Without Your PIN (If you've forgotten it)
If your PIN is locked because you've forgotten it, you cannot unlock it at an ATM without knowing the correct PIN. In this scenario, you must follow the steps to request a PIN reminder or a new PIN (Steps 2, 3, or 4). While you wait for your new PIN to arrive, you can still:
- Withdraw cash in branch: Visit a Nationwide branch with some ID (passport, driving licence) to withdraw cash.
- Make payments in branch: You can also make payments over the counter in a branch with proper identification.
Important Considerations & Security Tips
- PINs are never stored directly on the app: For security reasons, financial institutions generally do not display your full PIN directly within their apps or online banking platforms. The upcoming feature will likely allow you to request a reminder of it, rather than just showing it to you.
- Always use official channels: Only use the official Nationwide website, app, and contact numbers. Be wary of suspicious emails, texts, or calls asking for your PIN or banking details.
- Keep your address updated: Your PIN reminder or new PIN will always be sent to your registered address. Ensure Nationwide has your current address to avoid delays or security risks.
- Memorize your PIN: While these methods are helpful, the best security practice is to memorize your PIN and keep it confidential. Avoid writing it down where others can find it.
- Strong Passnumber/Password: Ensure your Nationwide Internet Bank and app passnumbers/passwords are strong and unique.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to unblock my Nationwide debit card if my PIN is locked?
To unblock your Nationwide debit card after a locked PIN, insert it into any UK ATM with the LINK sign, enter your correct PIN, select "Other," then "PIN Services," and finally "PIN Unlock."
How to request a PIN reminder for my Nationwide credit card?
You can request a PIN reminder for your Nationwide credit card via the Internet Bank (following Step 2 above) or by calling Nationwide's customer service (following Step 3). The reminder will be posted to your registered address.
How to change my PIN for my Nationwide card?
If you know your current PIN, you can change it at any UK ATM. Insert your card, enter your existing PIN, select "PIN Services," and then "PIN Change" to choose a new PIN.
How to get cash from Nationwide if I don't remember my PIN?
If you don't remember your PIN, you can still get cash by visiting a Nationwide branch with a valid form of identification like your passport or driving licence.
How to reset my passnumber for the Nationwide app?
If you've forgotten your passnumber for the Nationwide app, you can reset it directly through the app by clicking the "Forgotten passnumber" link on the login screen and following the instructions, often requiring your Visa debit card and a card reader.
How to find my Nationwide customer number?
You can find your Nationwide customer number in the banking app (under "Details & Settings" -> "Your details"), on your online banking registration welcome letter, or by using your Visa debit card and a card reader with the customer number lookup tool on their website.
How to use a card reader with Nationwide online banking?
A Nationwide card reader is used for enhanced security when making certain online transactions or logging into Internet Banking. You insert your card, enter your PIN, and generate a code based on a prompt from the website or app to confirm your identity or transaction.
How to report a lost or stolen Nationwide card?
Immediately report a lost or stolen Nationwide card by calling their dedicated lost and stolen cards helpline. This information can be found on the Nationwide website under the "Contact Us" or "Lost & Stolen Cards" sections.
How to set up biometrics (Face ID/Touch ID) on the Nationwide app?
To set up biometrics (Face ID or Touch ID) on the Nationwide app, log in to the app, go to "Details & Settings" or "Security Settings," and look for options to enable Touch ID or Face ID. Follow the on-screen prompts to register your fingerprint or facial scan.
How to update my registered address with Nationwide?
You can update your registered address with Nationwide through the Internet Bank by logging in and navigating to "Manage my details and settings," or by calling their customer service, or by visiting a branch with appropriate identification.
