Nationwide Building Society is urging its customers to act quickly as the opportunity to secure a combined cash bonus of up to £275 could be drawing to a close. The mutual lender has historically offered payments through its 'Fairer Share' scheme alongside incentives for new customers, but the future of the initiative for 2026 remains unconfirmed.
What is the Nationwide 'Fairer Share' Payment?
For the past three years, Nationwide has rewarded its loyal members with a 'Fairer Share' bonus, typically around £100. This payment is a gesture of the society's mutual status, distributing profits back to qualifying customers. However, the scheme for the current year has not yet been given the green light.
A spokesperson for Nationwide clarified the situation, stating: “Nationwide’s Board will decide on a Fairer Share payment for 2026 and it will depend on our financial performance. That assessment will be made after our financial year end, with the eligibility criteria for this year being agreed then too. The decision will be announced as part of our full year results in May.”
How Could Customers Get £275?
The potential £275 total comes from two possible sources. Firstly, the anticipated £100 'Fairer Share' payout for existing, eligible customers. Secondly, Nationwide has been running a £175 cash incentive for customers who switch their current account to the building society using the full Current Account Switch Service.
This means members who qualify for both could receive a significant cash boost. To be in line for any 2026 'Fairer Share' payment, customers likely need to have their account open and active by a key date. Based on last year's rules, you needed to be a customer for the first three months of the year.
This suggests that, should the scheme proceed, accounts must be open and active by at least 31 March 2026. An 'active' account generally means it is in regular use, with money being paid in and out.
Eligibility Criteria for Current Accounts
For holders of FlexAccount, FlexBasic or FlexDirect accounts, the typical activity requirements to qualify include:
- Paying in at least £500, and making two outgoing payments, OR
- Making ten outgoing payments from the account.
Alternatively, completing a full current account switch from another bank to Nationwide also satisfies the criteria.
For those with a FlexOne, FlexGraduate or FlexStudent account, the requirement is simpler: you usually need to make at least one payment in or out of the account during March, or complete a full switch to a FlexOne or FlexStudent account before the 31 March deadline.
The Clock is Ticking for Potential Payout
With the final decision on the 2026 'Fairer Share' bonus not due until May, customers who wish to be in the running are being advised to ensure their accounts meet the expected activity thresholds now. The £175 switch offer remains available separately, providing an immediate incentive for those moving their banking to Nationwide.
Prospective and existing customers should monitor Nationwide's official communications after its full-year results in May for the definitive announcement on whether the popular customer bonus will be paid out for the sixth consecutive year.
