The Ultimate Guide: How to View Your Nationwide PIN (And What to Do if You've Forgotten It!)
Ever found yourself staring blankly at a card machine, your mind a complete blank when it comes to that all-important four-digit number? You're not alone! Forgetting your PIN is a common, and often frustrating, experience. But fear not, Nationwide customers! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every available option for viewing, retrieving, or resetting your Nationwide PIN, ensuring you're never left stranded.
We'll cover the current methods and also give you a heads-up on exciting new features coming soon! So, let's dive in.
Understanding Nationwide's PIN Policy: What You Can and Can't Do
Before we get into the "how-to," it's crucial to understand Nationwide's approach to PINs. For security reasons, Nationwide generally does not allow you to view your PIN directly online or retrieve it over the counter in a branch at this very moment. However, there are established processes to get a reminder or a new one, and some exciting changes are on the horizon.
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| How To View Nationwide Pin |
Step 1: Have You Truly Forgotten Your PIN, or is it Just Locked?
This is a crucial first distinction! Your PIN might be locked if you've entered it incorrectly three times. A locked PIN is different from a forgotten PIN, and the solution is much simpler.
Sub-heading: Identifying a Locked PIN
- Error Messages: If you've tried to use your card and received messages like "PIN locked" or "PIN try limit exceeded," your PIN is likely locked.
- Contactless Still Working (Sometimes): If your PIN is locked, contactless payments might still work for a limited number of transactions. However, to fully reactivate your card, you'll need to unlock the PIN.
Sub-heading: Unlocking Your Nationwide PIN at a Cash Machine
If you know your PIN but it's locked, this is the quickest way to reactivate it. You can do this at any UK cash machine with the LINK sign on it.
- Insert Your Card: Place your Nationwide card into the cash machine.
- Enter Your Correct PIN: Carefully enter your known (but locked) PIN.
- Select "Other" then "PIN Services": Navigate through the menu options.
- Choose "PIN Unlock": Select this option to unlock your PIN.
The screen should then display a "successful" message, confirming your PIN is unlocked. You'll then need to make a Chip and PIN purchase or use a cash machine again to fully reactivate your card.
QuickTip: Repetition reinforces learning.
Step 2: Requesting a Nationwide PIN Reminder (If You've Forgotten It)
If your mind is a complete blank, and you genuinely cannot remember your PIN, Nationwide offers a "PIN reminder" service. This will send your existing PIN to your registered address.
Sub-heading: Option A: Requesting a PIN Reminder via Internet Banking
This is a convenient way to request your PIN reminder from the comfort of your home.
- Log in to Nationwide Internet Bank: Go to the Nationwide website and log in using your customer number, passnumber, and memorable information.
- Navigate to Your Accounts: From the accounts overview page, choose the relevant account for which you need the PIN.
- Select "Other account services": Look for this option within the "View accounts" menu.
- Choose "Request a PIN reminder": This specific option will lead you to the next step.
- Enter Card Details: You'll be asked to enter the last 8 digits of your 16-digit card number.
- Select "Request PIN": Confirm your request.
Nationwide will then send a PIN reminder to your registered address within 3 to 5 working days.
Sub-heading: Option B: Requesting a PIN Reminder Over the Phone
If you prefer to speak to someone, you can request a PIN reminder by calling Nationwide.
- Gather Your Details: Have your customer number, account number, or 16-digit debit card number ready.
- Call Nationwide: Dial 03457 30 20 11 (within the UK) or +44 1793 65 67 89 (from abroad).
- Follow the Prompts: The automated system or a customer service representative will guide you through the process of requesting a PIN reminder.
Similar to the online method, your PIN reminder will be posted to your registered address within 3 to 5 working days.
Tip: Take your time with each sentence.
Step 3: Requesting a Brand New Nationwide PIN
Perhaps you don't want the old PIN back, or you prefer a fresh start. You can also request a completely new PIN from Nationwide. This will also be sent to your registered address.
Sub-heading: How to Request a New PIN
- Over the Phone: Call Nationwide using the numbers provided in Step 2, and clearly state that you wish to request a new PIN, rather than a reminder.
- In Branch: Visit your nearest Nationwide branch. A staff member will be able to assist you in requesting a new PIN. Remember to bring some identification with you, such as a passport or driving license.
Again, the new PIN will arrive by post within 3 to 5 working days.
Step 4: Accessing Funds and Services While You Wait for Your PIN
It can be inconvenient to be without your PIN, but Nationwide offers solutions to ensure you can still access your money and banking services.
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Sub-heading: Withdrawing Cash Without Your PIN
- Visit a Nationwide Branch: You can visit any Nationwide branch to withdraw cash. Crucially, remember to bring some form of photographic identification, such as your passport or driving license, as well as your card.
- Contactless Payments (Limited): As mentioned, if your PIN is just locked (and not completely forgotten, requiring a new one), contactless payments might still work for small transactions. However, this isn't a long-term solution.
Sub-heading: Making Payments Without Your PIN
- Online Payments (Card Not Present): Many online purchases don't require your PIN, only your card number, expiry date, and CVV.
- Direct Debits and Standing Orders: These are not affected by your card's PIN status as they are set up directly with your bank account.
- E-wallets (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay): If you have your Nationwide card linked to an e-wallet, these often rely on your phone's security (fingerprint, face ID, or device passcode) rather than your card's PIN.
Step 5: Exciting Future Update! Viewing Your Existing PIN via the Mobile Banking App
This is a significant upcoming change that will make managing your PIN much easier! Nationwide has announced that later this year (2025), customers will be able to view their existing PIN directly via the Mobile Banking App.
Sub-heading: What This Means for You
- Instant Access: No more waiting 3-5 working days for a postal reminder! You'll be able to check your PIN instantly.
- Enhanced Convenience: This feature will streamline the process and reduce hassle if you have a momentary lapse of memory.
- Stay Tuned: Keep an eye on Nationwide's announcements and app updates for the exact launch date of this highly anticipated feature.
Important Security Reminders!
- Never Share Your PIN: Your PIN is a confidential number. Nationwide will never ask you for your full PIN over the phone, by email, or in a text message.
- Memorize Your PIN: While digital solutions are convenient, memorizing your PIN remains the most secure practice.
- Be Wary of Scams: Be vigilant against phishing attempts or scam calls asking for your banking details, including your PIN.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about Nationwide PINs, answered quickly!
Tip: Watch for summary phrases — they give the gist.
How to check my Nationwide PIN online right now?
Currently, you cannot directly view your PIN online. You can only request a PIN reminder via the Internet Bank, which will be sent to you by post. However, Nationwide plans to introduce a feature to view your PIN in their Mobile Banking App later in 2025.
How to get a Nationwide PIN reminder?
You can request a PIN reminder through Nationwide's Internet Banking or by calling their customer service. The reminder will be posted to your registered address within 3 to 5 working days.
How to unlock a Nationwide PIN?
If you know your PIN but it's locked (due to too many incorrect attempts), you can unlock it at any UK cash machine with the LINK sign. Insert your card, enter your PIN, select "Other," then "PIN services," and finally "PIN unlock."
How to change my Nationwide PIN?
You can change your PIN at any cash machine. Insert your card, enter your existing PIN, select "PIN services," then "PIN change," and follow the prompts to choose a new PIN.
How to get a new Nationwide PIN if I've forgotten it completely?
You can request a brand new PIN by calling Nationwide customer service or visiting a branch. A new PIN will be sent to your registered address within 3 to 5 working days.
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
How to withdraw cash from Nationwide without my PIN?
You can visit a Nationwide branch and withdraw cash over the counter. You will need to bring valid photographic identification, such as a passport or driving license.
How to make payments if my Nationwide PIN is locked or forgotten?
Contactless payments may still work for a limited number of transactions if your PIN is only locked. For larger purchases or if you've forgotten your PIN, you can use online payments (card not present), or rely on direct debits and standing orders. E-wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay also bypass the physical card PIN.
How to reset my Nationwide passnumber for online banking?
You can reset your passnumber on the Nationwide banking app or via the Internet Bank. Look for the "Forgotten passnumber" link or navigate to "Manage my details and settings" -> "View or change my security settings."
How to contact Nationwide about a forgotten PIN?
You can call Nationwide customer service at 03457 30 20 11 (UK) or +44 1793 65 67 89 (abroad). Alternatively, visit your nearest Nationwide branch.
How to find out my Nationwide customer number?
Your customer number can be found in the banking app, on your online banking registration welcome letter, or if you're a current account holder, by using your Visa debit card and card reader with the customer number lookup tool on their website.
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