Millions of Nationwide Building Society customers are poised to receive a welcome £100 cash bonus in 2026, continuing a popular annual reward scheme. The society's Fairer Share initiative, which has distributed funds for the last three consecutive years, is expected to run again next summer.
Key Deadline and Eligibility Requirements
To be in line for the potential 2026 windfall, members must ensure they meet specific criteria by a firm deadline. The crucial cut-off date is March 31, 2026. This gives customers a clear window to adjust their accounts and secure eligibility.
Based on the scheme's previous rules, the core requirements are expected to remain consistent. To qualify, a customer must hold:
- A Nationwide current account, and
- Either a qualifying savings account or a mortgage with the building society.
This structure offers flexibility. For instance, someone with only a current account can become eligible by opening a savings product before the deadline. Similarly, those with just a savings account or mortgage can open a current account. It also means new customers can join Nationwide and immediately work towards meeting all the necessary conditions.
Accounts typically need to be 'active', meaning they have seen recent transactions, not simply remain open.
A Proven Track Record of Customer Rewards
The Fairer Share scheme has established itself as a significant customer benefit since its launch. It has operated each summer since 2023, with the building society paying out to eligible members.
In 2025, the initiative provided a financial boost to a substantial number of people. Approximately four million Nationwide customers received the £100 bonus last year, demonstrating the scheme's wide reach.
While the building society traditionally does not confirm the scheme's running for the coming year until a few weeks before payments are due, it has already indicated that Fairer Share is likely to return in 2026. The final decision is usually dependent on the society's financial performance over the preceding 12 months.
Act Before the Rush
With the March 31 deadline now a focal point for members, a surge in activity is anticipated in the coming months. Customers are advised to check their account holdings well in advance to ensure they fulfil the criteria and avoid a last-minute rush.
Although official confirmation of the 2026 scheme and its precise details is still pending, the established pattern and recent hints from Nationwide provide strong grounds for customer optimism. For millions, taking action before spring could lead to a rewarding summer payout.
