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Your Comprehensive Guide to Getting Nationwide Bonuses!

Hey there! Are you looking to boost your finances with some extra cash? Nationwide Building Society is known for rewarding its members, and you've landed in the perfect place to understand exactly how you can get in on those bonuses. Whether it's the annual Fairer Share payment or a lucrative switching incentive, there are some clear steps to follow. Let's dive in!

Understanding Nationwide's Bonus Schemes

Nationwide offers a few different ways for its members to receive a financial boost. The most prominent ones are:

The Fairer Share Payment: This is an annual bonus paid out to eligible members, rewarding loyalty and Nationwide's strong financial performance. It's often £100, but the exact amount and eligibility criteria can vary slightly year to year.
Current Account Switching Offers: Nationwide frequently offers incentives (often £200) to new and existing members who switch their main current account to them using the Current Account Switch Service.
Mortgage Cashback/Offers: Sometimes, Nationwide provides cashback or other benefits for new mortgage customers or those remortgaging with them.

It's crucial to remember that these offers have specific criteria and are not always guaranteed year-on-year. Always check the very latest terms and conditions on the official Nationwide website.

Step 1: Are You Already a Nationwide Member, or Looking to Become One?

This is your very first question to answer, as it dictates your path to a bonus!

Sub-heading: Already a Nationwide Member?

Great news! You're already halfway there for some bonuses, especially the "Fairer Share" payment. Nationwide generally rewards its existing loyal customers.
What you'll need to check: Your existing account types and how you've been using them.

Sub-heading: New to Nationwide?

Welcome aboard! You're in a prime position to benefit from switching offers.
What you'll need to do: Open a qualifying current account with Nationwide and follow the switching process carefully.

Step 2: Targeting the Fairer Share Payment (£100 Bonus - As seen in 2023, 2024, and 2025)

This bonus is all about your relationship with Nationwide and how you use their services. For 2025, the payments were made between June 18 and July 4. While the exact dates and criteria can shift, the general principles remain consistent.

Sub-heading: Key Eligibility Criteria for the Fairer Share Payment (Based on 2025 criteria)

To be eligible for the £100 Fairer Share payment in 2025, you generally needed to meet these criteria by March 31, 2025:

Hold a Nationwide Current Account: Your current account must have been open on or before March 31, 2025. The specific activity required depends on your account type:
- For FlexAccount, FlexDirect, or FlexBasic: In two of the three months of January, February, and March 2025, you must have either:
  - Received £500 or more into the account (excluding internal transfers) AND made at least two outgoing payments, OR
  - Made at least ten outgoing payments in total.
  - Important Note: Transfers using the Current Account Switch Service during this period did not count towards these activity requirements.
- For FlexOne, FlexStudent, or FlexGraduate: You must have received at least one payment into or made one payment out of your account during March 2025.
- For FlexPlus: Simply paying the monthly fee for maintaining the account qualified you.
Have a Qualifying Savings or Mortgage Product: In addition to the current account, you needed to have one of the following:
- Savings: At least £100 saved in a personal Nationwide cash savings account on any single day in March 2025.
- Mortgage: At least £100 left to repay on a Nationwide residential mortgage as of March 31, 2025.

Sub-heading: What to Do (If You Meet the Criteria)

Relax and Wait! If you met the eligibility criteria, the payment should be made automatically into your Nationwide current account. There's usually no application process for the Fairer Share payment.
Keep Your Account Open: Ensure your Nationwide current account remains open until the payment date, as the bonus is paid directly into it.
Watch Out for Scams: Nationwide will not ask you to apply for this payment or ask for personal details via suspicious links. Be wary of any communications that seem to be trying to trick you.
Check Your Statement: The payment will typically appear as "Nationwide Fairer Share Payment" on your statement.

Step 3: Securing a Current Account Switching Bonus (£200 Bonus - Recent Offer)

Nationwide often runs attractive switching offers to encourage new funds and customers. A recent offer (as of May 2025) provides £200 for eligible switches.

Sub-heading: Eligibility for the £200 Switching Offer (Based on recent offers)

This offer is primarily for existing Nationwide members who weren't already using Nationwide as their main bank, and who haven't received a Nationwide switching bonus since 2021 (with some exceptions for joint/sole accounts).

Be a Qualifying Nationwide Member: You generally need to have been an existing Nationwide member (e.g., held a current account, savings account, or mortgage) by a specific date, such as March 31, 2025.
Choose a Qualifying Current Account: You need to switch into a new or existing:
- FlexPlus
- FlexDirect
- FlexAccount
Complete a Full Switch using CASS:
- You must use the Current Account Switch Service (CASS). This is a free, guaranteed service that moves all your Direct Debits, Standing Orders, and your balance, and closes your old account.
- The switch must be from a current account held with a different bank (not another Nationwide account).
- The switch must complete within a specified timeframe, often 28 days of opening your new Nationwide account or requesting the switch into an existing one.
Transfer Direct Debits: You need to transfer at least two active Direct Debits as part of your switch. These must be genuine Direct Debits, not just standing orders or recurring card payments.
Fund and Use Your Account: Within a set number of days (e.g., 31 days) of account opening or telling Nationwide you want to switch:
- Pay in at least £1,000: This can include money transferred from your old account as part of the switch, or a salary/income payment. It cannot be money already in an existing Nationwide account, or from other Nationwide accounts/Visa credits.
- Make at least one debit card payment: This needs to be a qualifying payment (e.g., not gambling, crypto, cash withdrawals, or certain money transfers). Contactless, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay often count.

Sub-heading: Step-by-Step Guide to Switching

Step 3.1: Verify Your Eligibility.
- First, check if you meet the "qualifying member" criteria. If you've received a switching bonus from Nationwide since 2021, you might not be eligible again unless you're switching between a sole and joint account type (e.g., from a sole account to a new joint account, or vice-versa).
- Self-check: Does your old account have at least two active Direct Debits you can move?
Step 3.2: Choose Your Nationwide Current Account.
- Decide whether a FlexPlus (packaged account with fees and benefits), FlexDirect (interest and potential overdraft benefits), or FlexAccount (everyday banking) suits your needs.
Step 3.3: Initiate the Switch Online.
- Go to the Nationwide website or use their banking app/internet bank.
- When applying for a new current account, select the option to "switch your existing bank account to us."
- If you're switching into an existing Nationwide account, you can typically do this via the internet bank.
- Be precise: Provide your old bank account details and your preferred switch date.
Step 3.4: Complete the Switch.
- The Current Account Switch Service guarantees the switch will complete within 7 working days.
- During days 1-6: Continue using your old account. Nationwide will coordinate with your old bank to transfer all payments.
- On day 7 (Switch Day): Your old account will be closed, and all funds, Direct Debits, and Standing Orders will be moved to your new Nationwide account. Your old debit card will stop working.
Step 3.5: Meet the Funding and Usage Requirements.
- Within the specified timeframe (e.g., 31 days) after your new Nationwide account is open (or you've initiated the switch to an existing one), ensure you:
  - Deposit £1,000 or more. This can be your salary, a transfer from a non-Nationwide account, or the money from your switched account.
  - Make at least one qualifying debit card payment. Use your new Nationwide debit card for a purchase.
Step 3.6: Receive Your Bonus.
- Nationwide typically pays the £200 bonus within 10 days of you meeting all the requirements. It will appear as "Switching Offer" on your statement.

Step 4: Mortgage-Related Bonuses (e.g., Cashback)

While not as frequent or standardized as the current account bonuses, Nationwide does offer incentives for mortgage customers from time to time.

Sub-heading: Common Mortgage Offers

Cashback for First-Time Buyers: Nationwide sometimes offers cashback (e.g., £500) for first-time buyers who complete a mortgage with them. This usually requires all applicants to be first-time buyers (meaning they haven't had a mortgage in the last 3 years).
Cashback or Free Legal Fees for Remortgaging: When remortgaging to Nationwide, you might be offered a choice between cashback (e.g., £500) or free standard legal fees.

Sub-heading: How to Qualify for Mortgage Bonuses

Apply for a Mortgage/Remortgage: The bonus is generally tied to a successful mortgage application and completion.
Meet Specific Product Criteria: Each offer will have specific requirements related to the mortgage product (e.g., loan-to-value, fixed-rate period).
Check Terms and Conditions: Always read the specific terms and conditions for any mortgage offer carefully, as they can be complex and are subject to change. The bonus is typically paid within one month of completion.

Step 5: Staying Informed and Maximizing Future Bonuses

Nationwide's offers can change, so staying updated is key.

Sub-heading: Essential Tips

Keep Your Contact Details Updated: Ensure Nationwide has your correct email and postal address so they can inform you about eligibility and payments.
Regularly Check Nationwide's Official Website: The "Current Accounts," "Savings," and "Mortgages" sections are where you'll find the latest promotions. Look for "offers" or "incentives."
Read the Small Print: Always read the full terms and conditions for any bonus offer. Pay attention to eligibility dates, required activities, and payment timings.
Don't Close Accounts Prematurely: If you're expecting a bonus, ensure the qualifying account remains open until the payment is received.
Be Aware of Tax Implications: Bonuses like the Fairer Share Payment are generally considered savings income and may be subject to tax depending on your personal savings allowance. Nationwide will not deduct tax, but you might need to declare it.

By following these steps and staying vigilant, you'll be well-equipped to snag those Nationwide bonuses and make your money work harder for you!

10 Related FAQ Questions:

How to check if I am eligible for the Nationwide Fairer Share payment?

You should receive an email or letter from Nationwide by the announced notification date (e.g., May 30 for the 2025 payment) if you are eligible. You can also check by logging into your online banking, using Nationwide's eligibility checker on their website, or contacting their live chat.

How to ensure my current account activity qualifies for the Fairer Share bonus?

For FlexAccount, FlexDirect, or FlexBasic, ensure you either receive £500+ and make 2+ outgoing payments, or make 10+ outgoing payments in two out of the three qualifying months (e.g., Jan-Mar). For FlexOne/Student/Graduate, make at least one incoming or outgoing payment in the qualifying month (e.g., March). For FlexPlus, simply pay the monthly fee.

How to switch my bank account to Nationwide to get a bonus?

You need to open a FlexPlus, FlexDirect, or FlexAccount with Nationwide and select the option to perform a "full switch" using the Current Account Switch Service (CASS). Ensure you move at least two active Direct Debits and meet the funding and debit card usage requirements within the specified timeframe.

How to know if I'm a "qualifying member" for Nationwide's switching offers?

You are typically a qualifying member if you held an eligible Nationwide mortgage, savings account, or current account by a specific date (e.g., March 31, 2025). Check the specific offer terms, as they can also detail exclusions if you've received a previous switching bonus.

How to make sure my £1,000 deposit counts for a switching bonus?

The £1,000 deposit can come from money moved over as part of the switch, or from your salary/pension paid into the new account. It cannot come from money already in an existing Nationwide account, other Nationwide accounts, or Visa credits.

How to ensure my debit card payment qualifies for a switching bonus?

Most debit card purchases count, including contactless, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. However, cash withdrawals, gambling transactions, cryptocurrency transactions, foreign currency purchases, and certain money transfers typically do not qualify.

How to track the progress of my Current Account Switch Service (CASS)?

The CASS guarantees a 7-working-day switch. Your new bank (Nationwide) will keep you updated on the progress, and you can generally monitor the status through their online banking or by contacting their customer service.

How to find the latest Nationwide bonus offers?

Always check the "Current Accounts," "Savings," and "Mortgages" sections on the official Nationwide Building Society website. They typically highlight their latest offers prominently.

How to deal with tax implications of Nationwide bonuses?

Nationwide bonus payments like the Fairer Share are generally considered savings income. While Nationwide does not deduct tax, you may need to declare this income on your tax return if it exceeds your Personal Savings Allowance. Consult a tax advisor if you have specific concerns.

How to contact Nationwide if I have questions about a bonus?

You can contact Nationwide directly via their official website's live chat, through their internet banking or banking app chat service, by calling their customer service number, or by visiting a local branch.

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How To Get Nationwide Bonus