The Nationwide Banking App is a powerful tool for managing your money on the go. Whether you're a new customer or just haven't used the app before, getting started is straightforward. This lengthy guide will walk you through every step of "switching on" your Nationwide app, from downloading it to making your first secure payment.
Ready to take control of your finances from the palm of your hand? Let's get started!
Step 1: Downloading the Nationwide Banking App
This is where your journey to mobile banking convenience begins.
Locating the App:
- For Android Users: Open the Google Play Store on your smartphone or tablet. You'll usually find its icon on your home screen or in your app drawer, often a colorful triangle.
- For Apple (iOS) Users: Open the App Store on your iPhone or iPad. Its icon is typically a blue square with a white star-like symbol made of pencils.
Searching for the App:
Once in the app store, locate the search bar (usually at the top). Type in "Nationwide Banking App" and press enter or the search icon.
Identifying the Official App:
It's crucial to download the official Nationwide app to ensure your security. Look for the app published by "Nationwide Building Society" or simply "Nationwide" with their recognizable blue logo. Double-check the developer information to avoid imposters.
Initiating the Download:
Tap the "Install" or "Get" button. You might be asked to confirm your identity with your device's password, fingerprint, or facial recognition. The app will then begin downloading and installing. This may take a few moments depending on your internet connection.
Step 2: Opening the App for the First Time
Once the app has finished installing, you'll find its icon on your device's home screen or in your app drawer.
Launching the Application:
Tap the Nationwide Banking App icon to open it.
Initial Welcome and Permissions:
The first time you open the app, you may see a welcome screen or a series of prompts asking for certain permissions (e.g., access to notifications, location services). It's generally safe to grant necessary permissions for the app to function correctly, though you can always review and adjust these in your device settings later.
Step 3: Registering or Logging In
This is where you'll link the app to your Nationwide account. You have two main routes here: if you're already registered for Nationwide's online banking (Internet Bank), or if you're new to digital banking with Nationwide.
Scenario A: You Already Use Nationwide Internet Banking
If you've previously registered for Nationwide's online banking through their website, the process is streamlined.
- Choose "Log In": On the app's initial screen, you'll likely see an option to "Log In" or "Existing Customer." Select this.
- Enter Your Credentials: You'll be prompted to enter your Nationwide Customer Number and your Date of Birth.
- Security Authentication: Nationwide employs robust security. You'll then typically be asked to log in using:
- Your passnumber: You'll be asked to enter a few specific digits from your passnumber.
- Biometrics (Fingerprint/Face ID): If your device supports it and you've set it up, you can enable Touch ID or Face ID for quick and secure logins. This is highly recommended for convenience.
- Card Reader (Less common for initial app login, but possible for some transactions): In some cases, particularly for setting up new payments or complex transactions, you might be prompted to use your card reader with your debit card. Keep it handy just in case.
Scenario B: You're New to Nationwide Digital Banking
If you've never registered for online banking with Nationwide before, you'll need to go through a quick registration process within the app.
- Choose "Register": Look for an option like "New Customer" or "Register for Online Banking" on the app's initial screen.
- Provide Account Details: You'll need your Nationwide account details (e.g., sort code and account number) or your debit card details to verify your identity.
- Personal Information: You'll be asked to provide some personal information, including:
- Your full name
- Your address and postcode
- Your email address
- Your mobile number
- Create Passnumber and Security Details: You will be guided to create a passnumber (a sequence of numbers you choose) and other security details. Choose a strong, memorable passnumber and keep it confidential.
- Confirmation and Verification: Nationwide will likely send a one-time passcode (OTP) to your registered mobile number or email address for verification. Enter this code into the app.
- Card Reader (Important for New Registrations): If you're registering a current account for the first time, Nationwide may send you a card reader in the post. While the app aims to reduce reliance on it, a card reader is often required for certain transactions and for initially setting up some features. It's a good idea to register for Internet Banking on their website first if you don't already have a card reader, as this will ensure one is sent to you.
Step 4: Exploring and Setting Up Key Features
Once you're successfully logged in, you'll land on your app's home screen, which typically shows an overview of your accounts. Now you can start customizing and utilizing its features.
A. Account Overview:
- View Balances: You'll instantly see the balances of your Nationwide accounts (current accounts, savings, loans, mortgages, credit cards).
- Transaction History: Tap on an account to view a detailed history of your transactions. Many transactions will show enriched information like brand logos, location, and contact details.
B. Personalising Your App:
- Biometric Login: Navigate to the app settings (often represented by a gear icon or "Profile & Settings"). Here, you can enable Touch ID (fingerprint) or Face ID (facial recognition) for even quicker and more secure logins. This is highly recommended.
- Customise Home Screen: Some versions of the app allow you to choose slimmer account tiles to see more on your screen, or reorder your accounts for easier access.
- Notifications and Alerts: Set up alerts for various activities, such as when your balance drops below a certain amount, or when a payment is made. This helps you stay on top of your finances.
C. Managing Your Money:
- Making Payments:
- Paying New People/Companies: You can set up new payees directly from the app. For security, you might need to confirm your identity, often through selfie authentication (facial recognition) if enabled, or sometimes still with a card reader.
- Transferring Money: Easily move funds between your own Nationwide accounts.
- Setting Up Standing Orders: Schedule regular, fixed payments to individuals or companies.
- Managing Direct Debits: View and cancel your Direct Debits.
- Card Management:
- Freeze/Unfreeze Card: If you temporarily misplace your debit card, you can instantly freeze it in the app to prevent unauthorized use. If you find it, you can unfreeze it just as easily. If it's truly lost or stolen, you can report it through the app.
- View PIN: Forgot your PIN? You can usually view it securely within the app.
- Set Contactless Limits: Adjust your contactless payment limits or even turn off contactless payments entirely.
- Add to Mobile Wallets: Link your Nationwide cards to Apple Pay or Google Pay directly from the app for convenient tap-to-pay functionality.
- Savings Goals: Create and track savings goals within the app. You can often make impulse savings into your account without having to log in fully each time. Some apps even offer "round-up" features, saving spare change from your purchases.
- Gambling Block: For those who want to manage their spending on gambling, the app often provides a feature to block transactions to gambling merchants.
Step 5: Staying Secure and Troubleshooting
Nationwide takes security seriously, and so should you.
A. Security Best Practices:
- Keep Your Details Private: Never share your passnumber, login details, or card reader codes with anyone, even if they claim to be from Nationwide. Nationwide will never ask you for your full passnumber or card reader codes over the phone or email.
- Strong Biometrics: If your device supports it, enable fingerprint or facial recognition for login. It's a highly secure and convenient method.
- Regular Updates: Ensure your phone's operating system and the Nationwide app are always up to date. Updates often include crucial security enhancements.
- Public Wi-Fi Caution: Be cautious when accessing your banking app on public Wi-Fi networks. Consider using your mobile data instead.
- Log Out: Always log out of the app when you're finished, especially if you're using a shared device. The app will usually log you out automatically after a period of inactivity.
B. Troubleshooting Common Issues:
- App Not Downloading/Stuck:
- Check your internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
- Ensure your device has enough storage space.
- Clear App Store Cache: Go to your phone's settings, then Apps > Google Play Store (or App Store) > Force Stop, then Storage > Clear Cache. Try downloading again.
- App Crashing:
- Restart your phone. A simple restart often resolves temporary glitches.
- Clear App Cache and Data: Go to your phone's settings, then Apps > Nationwide Banking App > Storage > Clear Cache and Clear Data. (Note: Clearing data will require you to log in again).
- Reinstall the App: If the above doesn't work, uninstall the app and then reinstall it.
- Check Device Compatibility: Ensure your device's operating system meets the minimum requirements for the app (e.g., Android 7.0 or higher, iOS 14 or higher).
- Login Issues:
- Double-check your customer number and passnumber entries.
- Forgot Passnumber: Use the "Forgotten your login details?" or similar option on the login screen to reset your passnumber. You'll likely need to verify your identity.
- Locked Out: If you've tried too many times, your account might be temporarily locked. Follow the on-screen instructions or contact Nationwide customer service.
- Service Status: Check Nationwide's website for any service status updates or planned maintenance that might be affecting the app.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to seamlessly managing your Nationwide accounts using their convenient and secure mobile banking app.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to using the Nationwide app, with quick answers:
How to check my balance on the Nationwide app?
Simply log in to the app, and your account balances will be displayed on the home screen overview.
How to make a payment to a new person using the Nationwide app?
Log in, go to the "Payments" section, select "Pay someone new," enter the recipient's details (sort code, account number), and follow the on-screen prompts for authentication (e.g., selfie authentication or card reader).
How to set up a standing order on the Nationwide app?
Log in, navigate to "Payments" or "Manage Payments," choose "Standing Orders," and follow the instructions to set up the recurring payment details.
How to freeze my debit card in the Nationwide app?
Log in, go to "Manage Cards" or "Cards," select the card you wish to freeze, and choose the "Freeze Card" option. You can unfreeze it later if found.
How to view my PIN in the Nationwide app?
Log in to the app, usually under "Manage Cards" or "Card Services," there will be an option to "View PIN" which may require re-authentication for security.
How to enable Touch ID or Face ID for login on the Nationwide app?
After logging in, go to the app's "Profile & Settings" or "Security Settings," and you should find options to enable biometric login (Touch ID/Face ID) for your device.
How to change my personal details (e.g., address, phone number) on the Nationwide app?
Log in, navigate to "Profile & Settings" or "Personal Details," and you should find options to update your address or phone number, which may require additional verification.
How to get a new card reader if mine is lost or broken?
While the app reduces reliance on the card reader, you can typically order a new one through Nationwide's website by logging into Internet Banking, or by contacting their customer service.
How to troubleshoot if the Nationwide app is crashing?
Try restarting your phone, clearing the app's cache and data (in your phone's settings under Apps > Nationwide app), or uninstalling and reinstalling the app.
How to check for Nationwide app service status updates?
Visit the official Nationwide website and look for a "Service Status" or "Help & Support" section. They usually post updates on any app or online banking issues there.
