You're looking to upgrade your Nationwide account, fantastic! This is a great way to ensure your banking aligns with your current financial needs and lifestyle. Nationwide offers a range of current accounts, each with unique benefits, so choosing the right one can make a real difference.
Let's dive into how you can make this upgrade happen, step by step.
Step 1: Understand Your Needs and Explore Nationwide's Account Offerings
Before you even think about clicking a button or visiting a branch, the most crucial first step is to know what you want and what Nationwide has to offer. Many people jump into an upgrade without fully understanding the benefits and drawbacks of different account types. Don't be one of them!
Tip: Don’t just scroll — pause and absorb.
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What are your current financial habits?
- Do you travel frequently and want fee-free spending abroad?
- Are you looking for in-credit interest?
- Do you need comprehensive insurance packages (travel, mobile, breakdown)?
- How often do you use branches versus online banking or the app?
- Do you make many debit card purchases?
- Are you a student or do you have children for whom you manage accounts?
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Nationwide's Popular Current Accounts: Nationwide offers several current account options. Familiarize yourself with their key features. Here's a quick overview of some common ones, but always check the latest information on the Nationwide website as offers and terms can change:
- FlexAccount: Nationwide's everyday bank account. Generally, no monthly fee, and offers basic banking services. Good for those who prefer a straightforward account.
- FlexDirect: This account often comes with attractive in-credit interest rates for a set period (e.g., 5% AER for 12 months on balances up to £1,500) and sometimes cashback on debit card spending. It's generally a self-service account, with most banking done online or via the app.
- FlexPlus: This is Nationwide's packaged bank account and comes with a monthly fee. In return, it offers a suite of benefits like worldwide family travel insurance, mobile phone insurance, and UK and European breakdown cover. It also often includes no Nationwide transaction fees for using your Visa debit card abroad. Ideal for those who would otherwise pay for these insurances separately.
- FlexStudent: Designed for students aged 18 or over, often providing an interest-free arranged overdraft.
- FlexOne: A bank account specifically for 11- to 17-year-olds.
- FlexBasic: A basic bank account for those who don't hold another UK current account or don't qualify for other accounts.
Actionable Tip: Visit the "Compare our everyday bank accounts" section on the Nationwide website to see a side-by-side comparison. This will help you identify which account best fits your identified needs.
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| How To Upgrade Nationwide Account |
Step 2: Check Your Eligibility
Once you have a target account in mind, the next step is to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. Nationwide, like all financial institutions, has specific requirements for opening or upgrading to certain accounts.
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General Eligibility:
- You must typically be 18 or over (for adult accounts).
- You need to be a UK resident.
- The account must be for personal use only.
- There might be a limit on the number of existing sole or joint Nationwide current accounts you can hold (e.g., no more than 4).
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Specific Account Requirements:
- For accounts like FlexDirect, there might be conditions to maintain the higher interest rates or cashback, such as paying in a minimum amount each month.
- For FlexPlus, you'll need to be aware of the monthly fee and assess if the bundled insurances are genuinely beneficial for you.
- For student accounts, proof of student status will be required.
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Credit Checks: Be aware that for certain accounts, especially those with overdraft facilities, Nationwide will perform a credit check. This is standard practice and helps them assess your financial suitability.
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Pro Tip: Don't just skim the terms and conditions. Read them carefully, especially the product terms for the specific account you're interested in. These documents will outline all fees, benefits, and any conditions you need to meet.
Step 3: Gather Necessary Information and Documents
To make the upgrade process smooth and efficient, have all your essential information and documents ready. This will prevent delays and frustration.
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
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Personal Details:
- Your full name and current address.
- Previous addresses for the last 3 years.
- Your date of birth.
- Your National Insurance number (NIN).
- Your contact details (phone number, email address).
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Nationwide Account Details:
- Your existing Nationwide customer number.
- Your current account number and sort code.
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Identification (ID) and Proof of Address: While Nationwide might already have these on file if you're an existing customer, they might require updated verification, especially if your details have changed.
- Photo ID: Valid UK passport or a full UK driving licence are commonly accepted.
- Proof of Address: A recent utility bill (gas, electricity, water), council tax bill, or bank statement (from another bank) dated within the last three months.
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Financial Information (if applicable):
- Details of your employer's address if you're employed.
- Information about your income if you're applying for an overdraft or a premium account.
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Remember: Nationwide generally cannot accept photocopies or certified copies of ID in a branch. Bring your original documents.
Step 4: Initiate the Upgrade Process
Nationwide offers several convenient ways to upgrade your account. Choose the method that best suits you.
Sub-heading: Option A: Online Banking (Internet Bank)
This is often the quickest and most straightforward method if you're comfortable with digital banking.
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
- Log in to your Nationwide Internet Bank: Go to the Nationwide website and log in using your customer number and passnumber or debit card and card reader.
- Navigate to Account Management: Look for a section related to "Current Accounts," "Change your account," or "Upgrade account." The exact wording might vary, but it should be clear.
- Select Your Desired Account: Choose the new account type you wish to upgrade to from the available options.
- Follow the On-Screen Instructions: The online application will guide you through the process, asking you to confirm details, review terms, and potentially provide additional information.
- Review and Submit: Carefully review all the information before submitting your application. You'll likely receive a confirmation message.
Sub-heading: Option B: Nationwide Banking App
The Nationwide Banking App provides a user-friendly interface for managing your accounts, including upgrades.
- Open the Nationwide Banking App: Log in using your passnumber, fingerprint (Touch ID), or facial recognition (Face ID).
- Look for Account Upgrade Options: Similar to the Internet Bank, navigate to a section related to current accounts or account upgrades.
- Choose Your New Account: Select the account you want to switch to.
- Complete the Application: Fill in any required details and agree to the terms and conditions. The app often streamlines the process by pre-filling much of your existing information.
- Confirm and Finalize: Review your choices and confirm the upgrade.
Sub-heading: Option C: In Branch Visit
If you prefer face-to-face assistance or have complex questions, visiting a Nationwide branch is an excellent option.
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
- Locate Your Nearest Branch: Use the Nationwide "Branch Finder" on their website to find a convenient branch. It's often a good idea to check their opening hours.
- Bring All Necessary Documents: Crucially, bring all the documents you gathered in Step 3, especially your original photo ID and proof of address.
- Speak to a Customer Service Representative: Inform them that you wish to upgrade your current account. They will guide you through the application process, answer any questions, and help you complete the paperwork.
- Sign and Confirm: You'll likely need to sign some forms to authorize the upgrade.
Sub-heading: Option D: Telephone Banking
For those who prefer speaking directly with a representative from the comfort of their home, telephone banking is an option.
- Find the Relevant Phone Number: Nationwide has different phone numbers for general enquiries and specific account types. Check the "Contact Us" section of their website for the correct number for current account enquiries. (e.g., 03457 30 20 11 for general current account enquiries, or specific numbers for FlexDirect/FlexPlus).
- Have Your Details Ready: Be prepared to provide your customer number, account details, and answer security questions to verify your identity.
- Explain Your Request: Clearly state that you wish to upgrade your Nationwide account and mention the specific account you're interested in.
- Follow Agent's Instructions: The agent will guide you through the process, confirm your eligibility, and complete the application over the phone.
Step 5: Understanding the Current Account Switch Service (CASS)
If you are upgrading your Nationwide account by switching from another bank or building society to a new or existing Nationwide account (which can sometimes come with switch offers!), the process will typically involve the Current Account Switch Service (CASS). This service ensures a smooth, reliable, and stress-free transfer.
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Key Features of CASS:
- 7 Working Day Switch: Your switch will be completed within 7 working days.
- Automated Transfer: Your account balance, direct debits, standing orders, and salary payments will be automatically transferred to your new Nationwide account.
- Payment Redirects: For 36 months, any payments accidentally sent to your old account will be automatically redirected to your new Nationwide account, and the sender will be informed of your new details.
- Switch Guarantee: If anything goes wrong, you will be refunded any interest or charges incurred as a direct result.
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What you might need to do manually (if using CASS):
- Update recurring payments linked to your old debit card: Subscriptions like Netflix, Amazon Prime, or gym memberships often use your debit card number directly. These won't automatically switch, so you'll need to update them with your new Nationwide debit card details.
Step 6: Confirmation and Activation
After submitting your upgrade application, Nationwide will process it.
- Confirmation: You should receive a confirmation that your application has been received. This might be an on-screen message, an email, or a letter.
- New Account Details/Card:
- If you're getting a new account type with different features (like FlexPlus with its bundled insurances), you will likely receive a new debit card and potentially other relevant documents (e.g., insurance policy details) in the post.
- If it's a simple internal upgrade, your existing card might continue to work, but the account features will change. Nationwide will inform you.
- Activation: Once your new card arrives (if applicable), you'll typically need to activate it. This can usually be done through the Nationwide app, Internet Bank, or by making a payment at a card machine using your PIN.
Step 7: Manage Your New Account
Congratulations! Your Nationwide account has been upgraded. Now, take some time to familiarize yourself with its new features.
- Explore the Banking App/Internet Bank: Log in and see how the new account is displayed. Check for any new functionalities or dashboards related to your upgraded account's benefits.
- Set up Alerts: Utilize Nationwide's text alerts to stay on top of your spending and account balance.
- Review Benefits: If you've upgraded to a packaged account like FlexPlus, take time to understand all the insurance benefits and how to utilize them. Download policy documents and note down contact numbers for claims.
- Monitor Transactions: Keep an eye on your statements for the first few weeks to ensure all direct debits and standing orders (if you used CASS) have transferred correctly.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some common questions about upgrading your Nationwide account, with quick answers:
How to know which Nationwide account is best for me?
- Answer: Consider your financial habits (e.g., travel frequency, need for in-credit interest, branch usage) and compare Nationwide's current account offerings (FlexAccount, FlexDirect, FlexPlus, etc.) on their website's comparison tool.
How to check my eligibility for a Nationwide account upgrade?
- Answer: Nationwide's website details the eligibility criteria for each account. You generally need to be 18+, a UK resident, and the account for personal use. A credit check may be performed for some accounts.
How to upgrade my Nationwide account online?
- Answer: Log in to your Nationwide Internet Bank or Banking App, navigate to the 'Current Accounts' or 'Change your account' section, select your desired new account, and follow the on-screen application steps.
How long does it take to upgrade a Nationwide account?
- Answer: If you're using the Current Account Switch Service (CASS) from another bank, it takes 7 working days. For internal upgrades, it can be much quicker, often immediate or within a few days.
How to ensure my Direct Debits transfer when upgrading Nationwide accounts?
- Answer: If you use the Current Account Switch Service (CASS), all your Direct Debits and Standing Orders will be automatically moved to your new Nationwide account. Nationwide also provides a 36-month redirect service.
How to get a new debit card after a Nationwide account upgrade?
- Answer: If your upgrade involves a new account type (e.g., FlexPlus), Nationwide will typically send you a new debit card in the post. You'll then need to activate it via the app, Internet Bank, or by making a PIN transaction.
How to contact Nationwide for help with an account upgrade?
- Answer: You can contact Nationwide via their telephone banking numbers (check their website for relevant contact details), use the live chat feature in their app or Internet Bank, or visit a local branch.
How to cancel a Nationwide account upgrade if I change my mind?
- Answer: If you've just applied, contact Nationwide as soon as possible via phone or in branch. If the switch is already underway via CASS, you might be able to change the switch date up to 7 working days before, but cancelling a full switch after that point might be more complex.
How to manage the monthly fee for a FlexPlus account?
- Answer: The FlexPlus account has a monthly fee which is automatically debited. Ensure you have sufficient funds in your account. You should regularly review the benefits to ensure they still provide value for you.
How to find out about Nationwide's current account switch offers?
- Answer: Nationwide often runs promotional offers for switching current accounts. Check the "Current Accounts" section on their official website, specifically looking for "switch offers" or "member offers" to see if you're eligible for any incentives.
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