It's exciting to get a new phone, but getting all your essential apps set up can sometimes feel like a puzzle. If you're a Nationwide customer, signing into their banking app on your new device is a crucial step to managing your finances on the go. Don't worry, we're here to guide you through it with a very detailed, step-by-step process.
Ready to get your Nationwide banking back in action on your new phone? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Get the Nationwide App on Your New Phone
The very first thing you need to do is ensure the Nationwide Banking App is present on your new device.
Sub-heading: Downloading the App
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For iPhone Users (iOS):
- Open the App Store icon on your iPhone. It's the blue icon with a white 'A' in a circle.
- Tap on the "Search" tab at the bottom right corner of the screen (it looks like a magnifying glass).
- In the search bar at the top, type "Nationwide Mobile Banking" and tap "Search".
- Look for the official Nationwide app – it should have the Nationwide logo. Tap the "Get" button next to it. You might need to authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password.
- Wait for the app to download and install. You'll see its icon appear on your home screen.
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For Android Users:
- Open the Google Play Store app on your Android phone. It's the colorful triangle icon.
- Tap on the search bar at the top of the screen.
- Type "Nationwide Banking App" and tap the search icon on your keyboard.
- Locate the official Nationwide app in the search results. Tap the "Install" button.
- The app will begin downloading and installing. Once complete, you'll find its icon on your home screen or in your app drawer.
Step 2: Open the App and Begin the Sign-In Process
Now that the app is installed, it's time to open it up and tell Nationwide that this is your new device.
Sub-heading: First Launch and Security Checks
- Locate and Tap: Find the Nationwide Banking App icon on your home screen or in your app drawer and tap to open it.
- Initial Prompts: The first time you open the app, it might ask for certain permissions (like notifications). Granting these permissions can enhance your experience, but it's your choice.
- Welcome Screen: You'll likely see a welcome screen. Look for an option like "Log in" or "Sign in." If you've never used the app before, you might also see an option to "Register for online banking" – do not select this if you're already registered.
Step 3: Entering Your Existing Nationwide Details
This is where you'll use the credentials you already have for your Nationwide online banking.
Sub-heading: Your Customer Number or Card Details
- Customer Number: You'll typically be prompted to enter your Nationwide Customer Number. This is a unique number given to you by Nationwide. Keep it handy!
- Date of Birth: You will also be asked for your Date of Birth as an additional security measure.
- Alternatively (Card Details): In some cases, especially if you're setting up the app for the first time on any device or encountering issues, the app might ask for your debit card details (card number, expiry date, and security code) instead of or in addition to your customer number. Follow the on-screen instructions precisely.
Step 4: Verification and Authentication
Nationwide employs strong security measures to protect your account. This step is crucial for verifying that it's really you trying to access your account on a new device.
Sub-heading: Options for Identity Verification
- Passnumber: You'll most likely be asked to enter specific digits from your Passnumber. Remember, Nationwide will never ask for your full passnumber. They'll only ask for certain digits (e.g., "Enter the 2nd, 5th, and 8th digits of your passnumber").
- One-Time Passcode (OTP) via Text: Nationwide often sends a One-Time Passcode (OTP) to the mobile number registered with your account. Check your SMS messages for this code and enter it into the app when prompted. Ensure your registered mobile number is up-to-date with Nationwide.
- Card Reader (Less Common for App Login, but possible for some actions): While less common for the initial app sign-in on a new phone, you might be asked to use your Nationwide card reader for certain transactions or if other verification methods fail. Keep it safe!
- Biometrics (Face ID/Touch ID/Fingerprint): Once you've successfully logged in and verified your device, the app will usually offer you the option to set up biometrics (Face ID on iPhone, Touch ID on iPhone, or Fingerprint on Android) for future quick logins. This is highly recommended for convenience and security.
- If you enable biometrics, you'll usually be prompted to scan your face or fingerprint.
- After enabling, you can often use your biometrics to approve payments and other actions within the app. Nationwide has recently introduced facial recognition (selfie) for payment authentication, so you might be prompted to take a selfie during this process.
Step 5: Managing Registered Devices (Important!)
For security, Nationwide allows you to manage the devices that are registered to access your account via the app.
Sub-heading: Deregistering Your Old Phone
- Access Device Management: Once you're successfully signed in on your new phone, it's a good practice to remove your old phone from the list of registered devices.
- Navigate to the "Details & settings" or "Security" section within the Nationwide app.
- Look for an option like "Manage devices" or "Trusted devices."
- You should see a list of devices registered to your account. Select your old phone and choose the option to "Remove" or "Deregister" it.
- Why is this important? Removing old devices enhances your account security by preventing unauthorized access if your old phone falls into the wrong hands. It also helps you stay within the limit of registered devices (Nationwide typically allows up to 6 registered devices).
Step 6: Explore Your Banking App on the New Phone!
Congratulations! You've successfully signed into the Nationwide app on your new phone.
Sub-heading: Getting Familiar with Features
- View Accounts: Check your account balances and transaction history.
- Make Payments: Set up new payees, make one-off payments, or manage standing orders and Direct Debits.
- Manage Cards: Freeze/unfreeze your debit card, report it lost or stolen, or view your PIN.
- Personalize Settings: Update your personal details, manage text alerts, and switch to paperless statements.
- Set Savings Goals: Utilise the app's features to help you save.
Remember, if at any point you encounter difficulties, do not hesitate to contact Nationwide's customer support. Their details are usually available on their official website or within the app itself.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to re-register for the Nationwide app if I'm locked out?
If you're locked out of the app due to too many incorrect login attempts, you might need to register again. Nationwide suggests that if you still can't log in after trying your card reader, re-registering for online banking might be necessary. You can often do this through the app or the Internet Bank, following the "Register" process.
How to enable Face ID or Touch ID for Nationwide app login?
Once you successfully log into the Nationwide app on your new phone using your passnumber or card details, the app will typically prompt you to set up biometrics (Face ID/Touch ID for iPhone, Fingerprint for Android). Follow the on-screen instructions to enable this feature in your app's security settings.
How to get a new Nationwide card reader?
You can usually order a new card reader online through the Nationwide website (Internet Bank) or by contacting their customer service. Sometimes, if you register a current account for the first time, one might be sent automatically.
How to check if my phone is compatible with the Nationwide app?
The Nationwide banking app requires your device to be running Android 7.0 or higher, or Apple iOS 14 or higher. You can typically find your device's operating system version in your phone's settings under "About phone" or "General > About."
How to update my registered mobile number with Nationwide?
You can update your contact details, including your mobile number, through the Nationwide Internet Bank, in a branch, or by contacting their customer service. It's crucial to keep this information up-to-date for security and verification purposes.
How to freeze my Nationwide debit card in the app?
Once logged into the Nationwide app, navigate to your accounts or card management section. You should find an option to "Freeze" or "Block" your debit card if it's lost or misplaced. You can then unfreeze it if you find it.
How to report a lost or stolen Nationwide card using the app?
Similar to freezing your card, the Nationwide app usually has a dedicated section (often under card management or security settings) where you can report a card as lost or stolen. This will typically lead to the card being cancelled and a replacement ordered.
How to troubleshoot Nationwide app not downloading on my new phone?
If the app isn't downloading, try these steps: 1) Check your internet connection. 2) Ensure you have enough storage space on your phone. 3) For Android, try clearing the cache and data of the Google Play Store (Settings > Apps > Google Play Store > Storage). 4) For iPhone, restart your phone. 5) If issues persist, contact your phone's support or Nationwide's customer service.
How to remove an old device from my Nationwide app access?
Log in to the Nationwide app on your new phone. Go to "Details & settings" or "Security," then look for "Manage devices" or "Trusted devices." From there, you can select and remove your old phone or any other unregistered device.
How to contact Nationwide customer support for app issues?
You can usually find contact details for Nationwide customer support on their official website (nationwide.co.uk) under the "Contact Us" section. There are often phone numbers, online chat options, and information about visiting a branch.
