Have you ever wished your bank account offered more than just basic banking? Imagine having worldwide travel insurance, mobile phone insurance, and even breakdown cover all bundled into one convenient package. If that sounds appealing, then the Nationwide FlexPlus account might be exactly what you're looking for! It's a premium current account designed to give you peace of mind and valuable benefits for a monthly fee.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process to open a Nationwide FlexPlus account, whether you're a new customer or an existing one looking to upgrade. Let's get started!
Unlocking the Benefits: Why Choose Nationwide FlexPlus?
Before we dive into the "how-to," let's quickly understand why the FlexPlus account is so popular. For a monthly fee of £18, you gain access to a suite of insurance policies and benefits that can genuinely save you money and hassle in the long run.
Here's a snapshot of what you get:
- Worldwide Family Travel Insurance: Comprehensive cover for you and your family, including winter sports, golf, weddings, and business travel. This is a massive perk if you travel frequently!
- Worldwide Family Mobile Phone Insurance: Protection for your mobile phones against loss, theft, damage, or breakdown, anywhere in the world. Covers phones owned by you, your partner, and dependent children.
- UK & European Breakdown Assistance: Provided by the AA, this covers you whether you're at home or on the roadside, in the UK or Europe. No excess and unlimited callouts!
- No Nationwide Transaction Fees Abroad: Use your Visa debit card overseas without worrying about Nationwide's fees on ATM withdrawals and card payments.
- Access to Exclusive Member-Only Products: As a Nationwide member, you'll have access to special savings accounts like the Flex Regular Saver and Flex Instant Saver.
It's important to weigh these benefits against the monthly fee and consider if you already have similar cover elsewhere to avoid paying for duplicate insurance.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a Nationwide FlexPlus Account
Opening a Nationwide FlexPlus account is a straightforward process, whether you're applying online, over the phone, or in a branch. The easiest and quickest method is generally online.
Step 1: Are You Eligible? Let's Find Out Together!
Before you even think about forms, let's quickly check if you meet the basic criteria for a Nationwide FlexPlus account. This will save you time and ensure a smooth application.
- Age Requirement: You must be 18 or over.
- Residency: You need to be a UK resident.
- Account Limit: You should hold no more than 4 existing sole or joint Nationwide current accounts.
- Personal Use: The account is for personal use only.
Do you tick all these boxes? Fantastic! Let's move on to the next crucial step.
Step 2: Gathering Your Essentials – What You'll Need
Having all your documents and information ready before you start will make the application process incredibly efficient. Think of this as your pre-flight checklist for your new banking journey!
Sub-heading: Personal Information
- Your Full Name and Date of Birth
- Current UK Address: And your address history for the past 3 years.
- Contact Details: A valid email address and mobile phone number.
Sub-heading: Identification & Verification
Nationwide will need to verify your identity. The easiest way to do this is with:
- A valid UK passport
- A valid UK driving licence
What if you don't have these? Don't worry! You might need to visit a branch with alternative forms of ID, such as a national identity card, a recent utility bill, or a council tax bill. It's always best to check Nationwide's website or contact them directly if you're unsure about acceptable forms of ID.
Sub-heading: Employment Details (If Applicable)
- Your Employer's Name and Address (if you are employed)
- Your Annual Income
Step 3: Choosing Your Application Path – Online, Phone, or Branch
Nationwide offers several convenient ways to apply for a FlexPlus account. The online application is generally the quickest, but you have options.
Sub-heading: Option A: Applying Online (Recommended for Speed)
- Visit the Nationwide Website: Go to the official Nationwide Building Society website (nationwide.co.uk).
- Navigate to Current Accounts: Look for the "Current Accounts" section and then locate "FlexPlus."
- Start Your Application: Click on "Apply now" or a similar button to begin the online application form.
- Fill in Your Details: Carefully and accurately complete all sections of the application form. This will include your personal details, address history, employment information, and financial details.
- Review the Terms and Conditions: It's crucial to read through the FlexPlus Product Terms, Current Account Terms and Conditions, and the insurance policy documents (travel, mobile, breakdown) to understand the full scope of your cover, exclusions, and monthly fees.
- Identity Verification: The online system will often attempt to verify your identity electronically using the details you provide. If this is successful, you might not need to provide physical documents.
- Submit Your Application: Once you've reviewed everything, submit your application. You'll usually receive an immediate confirmation that your application has been received.
Sub-heading: Option B: Applying Over the Phone
If you prefer to speak to someone directly or have questions during the application, you can apply over the phone.
- Call Nationwide: Find the current account general enquiries number on the Nationwide website. For FlexPlus specific enquiries, the number is 0800 11 88 55.
- State Your Intent: Inform the customer service representative that you wish to open a Nationwide FlexPlus account.
- Provide Your Details: The representative will guide you through the application process, asking for all the necessary information, just as you would provide online.
- Identity Verification: They will likely attempt to verify your identity over the phone. Be prepared to answer security questions.
- Confirmation: You'll receive confirmation of your application and next steps.
Sub-heading: Option C: Applying In Branch
For a more personal touch or if you need assistance with identification, visiting a branch is a good option.
- Find Your Nearest Branch: Use the branch finder tool on the Nationwide website.
- Schedule an Appointment (Optional but Recommended): While you can often walk in, scheduling an appointment can reduce waiting times.
- Bring All Documents: Ensure you have all your required personal information and identification documents with you.
- Speak to a Customer Service Advisor: A Nationwide advisor will assist you with the application, answer any questions, and help with identity verification.
- Complete the Application: They will guide you through the forms and ensure everything is correctly filled out.
Step 4: The Waiting Game – What Happens Next?
Once you've submitted your application, Nationwide will process it. The speed of this depends on how you applied and if any further verification is needed.
- Online Applications: If your identity can be verified electronically, your account could be opened very quickly, sometimes even instantly. You'll receive an email confirmation.
- Phone/Branch Applications & Further Checks: If manual checks are required, or if you applied in person, it might take a few business days. Nationwide will contact you if they need any more information or documents.
- Welcome Pack: Once your account is open, you'll receive a welcome pack in the post. This will include your new FlexPlus debit card, PIN, and all the important policy documents for your travel, mobile phone, and breakdown insurance. Read these documents carefully! They contain vital information about your cover, including exclusions, limits, and how to make a claim.
- Activating Insurances: Your insurance policies (travel, mobile, breakdown) are generally activated as soon as your FlexPlus account is open. However, for mobile phone insurance, while not mandatory, registering your phone's details (IMEI, make, model) can streamline the claims process. You can often do this online through the insurer's portal (details will be in your welcome pack).
Step 5: Activating Your Account & Enjoying the Benefits
Congratulations! Your Nationwide FlexPlus account is now open. Here's how to get the most out of it:
- Activate Your Debit Card: Follow the instructions provided with your card to activate it. This usually involves making a purchase or using an ATM.
- Set Up Internet Banking and the Banking App: If you haven't already, register for Nationwide's internet banking and download their banking app. This allows you to manage your account, view transactions, and set up payments conveniently.
- Explore Your Insurances:
- Travel Insurance: Before any trip, always check the policy details, especially regarding pre-existing medical conditions. You may need to declare these and pay an additional premium for cover.
- Mobile Phone Insurance: Consider registering your phone's IMEI number with the insurer. This can make future claims easier.
- Breakdown Cover: Familiarise yourself with how to contact the AA in case of a breakdown in the UK or Europe.
- Consider a Switch (if applicable): If you're switching from another bank, you can use the Current Account Switch Service (CASS) to seamlessly transfer your direct debits, standing orders, and remaining balance to your new FlexPlus account. Nationwide often offers switching incentives, so keep an eye out for these!
Nationwide FlexPlus Account: Joint Account Opening
If you're looking to share the benefits with someone else, you can open a FlexPlus account as a joint account.
- New Joint Account: You can apply for a new joint FlexPlus account online, in branch, or over the phone. Both applicants will need to provide their details and meet the eligibility criteria.
- Adding Someone to an Existing Account: If you already have a sole Nationwide current account (including a FlexPlus) and wish to make it a joint account, you'll need to call Nationwide. Both the existing and new account holders must be on the call together.
10 Related FAQs: How to...
Here are some quick answers to common questions about the Nationwide FlexPlus account:
How to check if I have duplicate insurance cover?
- Review your existing insurance policies (home insurance, other credit cards, standalone travel/breakdown policies) and compare them with the FlexPlus policy documents you receive.
How to claim on my Nationwide FlexPlus travel insurance?
- Details on how to claim will be in your FlexPlus Welcome Pack and the travel insurance policy document provided by Aviva. Generally, for medical emergencies, you call the assistance helpline; for other claims, you might report online.
How to register my mobile phone for insurance cover?
- While not always mandatory for cover, registering your phone (IMEI, make, model) can simplify claims. Details will be in your mobile phone insurance policy document (provided by Assurant), often with an online portal or phone number for registration.
How to contact the AA for breakdown assistance with my FlexPlus account?
- Your welcome pack and breakdown cover policy document will have the dedicated AA contact numbers for UK and European breakdown assistance.
How to upgrade my existing Nationwide FlexAccount to FlexPlus?
- You can typically upgrade your existing Nationwide current account to FlexPlus online through your internet banking, by calling them, or by visiting a branch.
How to manage my FlexPlus account online?
- Register for Nationwide's Internet Bank and download their Banking App. You can then manage your account, view statements, make payments, and access services from there.
How to find the terms and conditions for my FlexPlus account?
- All relevant terms and conditions, including product terms and insurance policies, will be sent to you in your welcome pack and are also available on the Nationwide website.
How to cancel my Nationwide FlexPlus account?
- You can cancel your FlexPlus account by contacting Nationwide directly, either by phone or by visiting a branch. Be aware of any outstanding fees or direct debits before closing.
How to get a £200 switching bonus with FlexPlus?
- Nationwide often runs switching offers. To qualify, you typically need to use the Current Account Switch Service, move over a minimum number of Direct Debits, and deposit a certain amount into the new account within a specified timeframe. Check the latest offers on the Nationwide website.
How to know if the FlexPlus account is right for me?
- Consider how often you travel, if you need mobile phone insurance for your family, and if you require breakdown cover. If you would pay for these services separately, the bundled fee of £18 per month for FlexPlus could offer significant savings and convenience. Compare the benefits against the cost and your individual needs.
