Nationwide Customers Could Receive £100 Bonus in 2026
Nationwide Building Society is anticipated to distribute a £100 Fairer Share bonus to its members later this year, mirroring a similar initiative from 2025 that benefited over 4 million customers. According to financial experts, including Moneysavingexpert assistant editor Peter Lekarski, savers should take proactive steps now to enhance their eligibility for this potential windfall.
Three Essential Steps to Qualify for the £100 Payment
Assuming Nationwide maintains the same criteria as in previous years, customers must adhere to three primary requirements to secure the bonus. These steps are designed to ensure active engagement with Nationwide's financial products.
- Maintain Your Nationwide Current Account: Do not close your Nationwide current account. This foundational step is crucial, as account closure would automatically disqualify you from receiving the bonus.
- Utilise Your Current Account in Early 2026: During the first three months of the year, you must use your Nationwide current account in specific ways. Depending on your account type, you need to either deposit £500 (e.g., from your salary) and make two outgoing payments, or execute at least 10 outgoing payments in two of those three months. Alternatively, completing a full current account switch from a non-Nationwide account to Nationwide during this period also satisfies this requirement and may net an additional £175 switching incentive.
- Hold Savings or Mortgage Balance in March: Ensure you have at least £100 in a Nationwide savings account or owe a minimum of £100 on a Nationwide mortgage by March 2026. If you lack either, simply depositing £100 into a Nationwide savings account will suffice.
Special Considerations for Flex Accounts
For customers with Nationwide's FlexOne, FlexGraduate, or FlexStudent accounts, the requirements differ slightly. Based on previous years, you must either make a payment into your account from a non-Nationwide source or make a payment out of your account in March 2026. Alternatively, completing a full switch to a FlexOne or FlexStudent account between January 1 and March 31, 2026, qualifies. FlexPlus packaged account holders need only pay their monthly fee to meet the criteria.
Timing and Expectations
Historically, Nationwide announces the Fairer Share bonus scheme in May and disburses payments in June. While not guaranteed, experts predict a similar timeline for 2026. New customers can also benefit by switching to Nationwide, potentially earning £175 from the switching offer plus the £100 bonus, totalling £275.
Peter Lekarski emphasised, "In previous years, what you did in two of the first three months of the year determined whether or not you qualified for Nationwide's Fairer Share £100 bonus." By following these guidelines, customers can position themselves to potentially claim this financial reward, enhancing their savings with minimal effort.
