Ready to take control of your finances and join one of the UK's most trusted building societies? Opening a Nationwide Flex Account can be a fantastic step towards managing your money effectively, whether you're looking for everyday banking, attractive interest rates, or a comprehensive packaged account. This guide will walk you through the entire process, step-by-step, making it as smooth and straightforward as possible.
Before We Begin: Which Flex Account is Right for You?
Nationwide offers a few different "Flex" accounts, each designed to meet different needs. It's important to choose the one that best suits your financial goals:
- FlexAccount: This is Nationwide's everyday current account, offering straightforward banking with no monthly fee. It's a great option for general use.
- FlexDirect: This account offers attractive in-credit interest for the first 12 months (on balances up to £1,500) and can also provide an interest-free arranged overdraft for the initial year. It's designed for those who mostly manage their banking online or over the phone.
- FlexPlus: A packaged current account that comes with an £18 monthly fee but includes benefits like worldwide family travel insurance, mobile phone insurance, and UK and European breakdown cover. Ideal for those who want comprehensive insurance alongside their banking.
- FlexStudent: Specifically for students aged 18 or over, offering an interest-free arranged overdraft to help manage university finances.
- FlexOne: Designed for 11- to 17-year-olds, offering interest and tools to help manage money.
- FlexBasic: A basic bank account for those who don't hold another UK current account or don't qualify for other current accounts.
For the purpose of this guide, we'll focus on the general process applicable to most adult Flex accounts, particularly the FlexAccount and FlexDirect, as they are the most commonly opened.
Step 1: Are You Eligible? Let's Check!
Before you dive into the application, let's quickly confirm if you meet the basic eligibility criteria. Nationwide has specific requirements, and knowing these upfront can save you time and effort.
Sub-heading: Eligibility Essentials for Adult Flex Accounts
For most standard adult Flex accounts (like FlexAccount and FlexDirect), you'll generally need to meet these criteria:
- Age: You must be 18 or over.
- Residency: You must be a UK resident. Nationwide International closed in 2017, and the UK-based Nationwide Building Society primarily serves UK residents. While some existing customers may retain their accounts if they move abroad, opening a new account generally requires UK residency.
- Personal Use: The account must be for personal use only.
- Existing Accounts: You should generally hold no more than 4 existing sole or joint Nationwide current accounts.
Engage User: Take a moment right now to consider if you tick all these boxes. If you're unsure about your residency status or have more than four existing accounts, it's worth checking Nationwide's official website or contacting them directly before proceeding.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents: Be Prepared!
Having all your necessary documents ready before you start the application will make the process much smoother and faster. Nationwide needs to verify your identity and address to comply with regulations.
Sub-heading: What You'll Likely Need
While the exact documents can vary slightly depending on whether you apply online or in a branch, and if Nationwide can verify you electronically, here's a general list of what to prepare:
-
Proof of Identity (Photo ID):
- Valid UK Passport
- Full UK Driving Licence (provisional also accepted)
- EU/EEA National Identity Card (if applying in branch)
-
Proof of Address (Dated within the last 6 months, typically):
- Utility Bill (e.g., gas, electricity, water – not a mobile phone bill)
- Council Tax Bill
- Bank, Building Society, or Credit Union Statement (from a different bank)
- Mortgage Statement/Solicitor Mortgage Correspondence
- HMRC Letter (e.g., tax coding notice)
- Benefits Agency Document (e.g., Universal Credit letter)
Important Note: If you're applying online and Nationwide cannot electronically verify your identity or address, you may be asked to visit a branch with your documents or send them by post.
Sub-heading: Additional Information You Might Need
Beyond the core documents, have the following information handy:
- Contact Details: Your current phone number (mobile preferred) and email address.
- Address History: Your addresses for the past 3 years.
- Employment Details: If employed, information about your employer and income.
- Financial Information: Details of your monthly income and outgoings (e.g., rent/mortgage, other financial commitments) – particularly relevant if you're applying for an overdraft.
- National Insurance Number: While not always explicitly asked for upfront, it's good to have it ready.
Step 3: Choose Your Application Method: Online or In-Branch?
Nationwide offers flexibility in how you open your Flex Account. Both methods have their pros and cons.
Sub-heading: Online Application (The Quickest Route for Many)
This is often the most convenient and fastest way to apply.
- Visit the Nationwide Website: Go to the official Nationwide website and navigate to their 'Current Accounts' section.
- Select Your Flex Account: Choose the specific Flex Account you wish to open (e.g., FlexAccount, FlexDirect). You'll typically find an "Apply now" or "Start application" button.
- Complete the Online Form: Fill in the application form with your personal details, contact information, address history, employment details, and financial information.
- Be sure to answer all questions accurately.
- If you want an arranged overdraft, ensure you indicate this during the application.
- Identity Verification: Nationwide will attempt to verify your identity and address electronically using the information you provide.
- If successful, you might not need to provide physical documents.
- If electronic verification isn't possible, you'll be prompted to provide documents, either by uploading them, taking them to a branch, or sending them by post.
- Review and Submit: Carefully review all the information you've entered before submitting your application.
- Confirmation: You'll usually receive an immediate on-screen confirmation and an email detailing the next steps.
Sub-heading: In-Branch Application (For a Personal Touch)
If you prefer face-to-face assistance or if online verification isn't working for you, applying in a Nationwide branch is a good alternative.
- Find Your Nearest Branch: Use the branch finder tool on the Nationwide website to locate a branch convenient for you.
- Book an Appointment (Recommended): While you can often walk in, booking an appointment ensures a dedicated time slot with an advisor, reducing your waiting time.
- Bring Your Documents: Take all the documents you gathered in Step 2 with you. The advisor will need to see the originals for verification.
- Complete the Application with an Advisor: A Nationwide advisor will guide you through the application form, answer any questions you have, and process your identity and address verification.
- Sign and Submit: Once the form is complete, you'll sign it, and the advisor will submit your application.
Step 4: Awaiting Approval and Account Activation
Once you've submitted your application, it's time for Nationwide to process it.
Sub-heading: The Waiting Game (It's Usually Quick!)
- Online Applications: If all goes smoothly with electronic verification, your account could be opened almost instantly or within a few working days. You'll receive email confirmations.
- In-Branch Applications: If applying in a branch and all documents are verified on the spot, your account may be opened relatively quickly.
- Switching Service: If you're using the Current Account Switch Service (CASS) to move an existing account to Nationwide, the full switch typically completes within 7 working days.
Sub-heading: What to Expect in the Post
Once your account is approved and opened, you'll receive several items in the post over the next few days:
- Your new debit card: This will arrive first.
- Your PIN (Personal Identification Number): This will arrive in a separate letter a day or two after your card for security reasons.
- Welcome Pack and Terms & Conditions: This will contain important information about your new account, including your account number, sort code, and the full terms and conditions.
- If you've requested a chequebook, this will also arrive separately.
Tip: Keep an eye on your post and store your debit card and PIN securely as soon as they arrive.
Step 5: Activating and Managing Your New Account
Congratulations! Your Nationwide Flex Account is now open. The final step is to activate it and get familiar with managing your money.
Sub-heading: Activating Your Debit Card
- Make a PIN Transaction: The easiest way to activate your debit card is to make a purchase using your PIN at a shop or withdraw cash from an ATM.
Sub-heading: Registering for Online and Mobile Banking
- Internet Bank: Nationwide's Internet Bank allows you to manage your account from your computer. You'll need to register, which typically involves providing some personal details and your account information. If you opened your account online, you might have registered during the application.
- Mobile Banking App: Download the Nationwide Banking app for convenient banking on your smartphone. You'll use your Internet Bank login details to access the app.
- Through the app and Internet Bank, you can check your balance, view transactions, make payments, set up standing orders and Direct Debits, and much more.
Sub-heading: Setting Up Direct Debits and Standing Orders (If Switching)
If you've switched from another bank, Nationwide's Current Account Switch Service will automatically transfer your Direct Debits and standing orders. However, it's always wise to double-check your first few statements to ensure everything has transitioned correctly.
Sub-heading: Funding Your Account
You can deposit money into your new Nationwide Flex Account via:
- Bank transfer: From another bank account using your new sort code and account number.
- Cash or cheque deposit: At a Nationwide branch or Post Office.
- Setting up your salary: Provide your employer with your new Nationwide account details.
Enjoy Your New Nationwide Flex Account!
You've successfully opened your Nationwide Flex Account! Now you can start enjoying the benefits, whether it's managing your everyday spending, earning interest, or utilizing the added insurance features of a packaged account. Nationwide offers various tools and support to help you manage your money, so explore their online banking, mobile app, and don't hesitate to reach out to their customer service if you have any questions.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my Nationwide Flex Account balance?
You can check your Nationwide Flex Account balance instantly via the Nationwide Banking app, the Internet Bank, or by calling their telephone banking service. You can also view it at an ATM.
How to deposit money into my Nationwide Flex Account?
You can deposit money into your Nationwide Flex Account by bank transfer from another account (using your sort code and account number), by paying cash or cheques into a Nationwide branch, or at a Post Office.
How to set up a Direct Debit on my Nationwide Flex Account?
You typically set up a Direct Debit by providing your Nationwide Flex Account details (account number and sort code) to the organisation you wish to pay. They will then initiate the Direct Debit. You can view and manage your Direct Debits via the Internet Bank or Banking app.
How to find my Nationwide Flex Account sort code and account number?
Your sort code and account number can be found on your debit card, on your welcome letter, and within your online banking (Internet Bank and Banking app).
How to order a new debit card for my Nationwide Flex Account?
You can order a new debit card for your Nationwide Flex Account through the Internet Bank, the Banking app, or by contacting Nationwide's customer service over the phone.
How to change my address for my Nationwide Flex Account?
You can update your address for your Nationwide Flex Account online through the Internet Bank, via the Banking app, or by visiting a Nationwide branch with proof of your new address.
How to close my Nationwide Flex Account?
You can close your Nationwide Flex Account by contacting Nationwide directly via phone, visiting a branch, or by sending them a written request. Ensure all Direct Debits and standing orders are moved and the balance is transferred before closing.
How to apply for an arranged overdraft on my Nationwide Flex Account?
You can apply for an arranged overdraft when you initially open your Flex Account. If you already have an account, you can typically apply through the Internet Bank, the Banking app, or by contacting Nationwide's customer service. Eligibility is subject to a credit check.
How to switch my old bank account to a Nationwide Flex Account?
You can switch your old bank account to a Nationwide Flex Account using the free Current Account Switch Service (CASS). This can usually be initiated during your online application or by speaking to a Nationwide advisor in a branch or over the phone. It takes 7 working days.
How to contact Nationwide customer service for my Flex Account?
You can contact Nationwide customer service by phone (numbers vary slightly by account type, usually found on their website), via secure message in the Internet Bank/Banking app, or by visiting your local branch.
