Nationwide Building Society has issued no formal confirmation on the continuation of its £100 Fairer Share bonus for 2026. However, customers hoping to qualify for a potential payout are being advised to take steps before March 31, 2026, based on previous years’ criteria.
The bonus, introduced in 2023, is part of Nationwide’s effort to return profits to members through its Fairer Share scheme. In 2025, over 4 million members received the £100 payment – with many experts, including MoneySavingExpert (MSE), highlighting the importance of preparing early to increase eligibility chances.
Background
Nationwide’s Fairer Share payment has historically followed a set pattern:
- Announcement: Typically made in May
- Payment: Usually issued in June
- Eligibility Cut-off: Based on account status by March 31 of the same year
Although there’s no official statement about the 2026 scheme as of now, past experience suggests that customers should assume similar eligibility rules and take action before March 31, 2026 to avoid missing out.
2025 Eligibility Criteria
In 2025, customers qualified for the £100 bonus if they held:
- A qualifying current account and qualifying savings, or
- A qualifying current account and qualifying mortgage
Current Account Usage
Merely holding the account wasn’t enough. Usage conditions varied depending on account type:
| Account Type | Eligibility Condition |
|---|---|
| FlexPlus | Paid monthly account fee |
| FlexOne, FlexStudent, FlexGraduate | Made or received at least one payment in March 2025 |
| Other current accounts | Showed account activity or regular use |
Note: Account charges, interest, or adjustments did not count as qualifying transactions.
Savings and Mortgage Requirements
Customers also had to meet a minimum balance threshold with Nationwide:
- Savings: At least £100 held until March 31
- Mortgage: At least £100 owed on an active account
To avoid falling short, MSE recommended placing £200 in savings as a precaution.
Additional Offers
Nationwide currently offers a £175 switch bonus for new customers who open a FlexDirect current account. This is separate from the Fairer Share scheme but can be combined if eligibility criteria for both are met.
To qualify for both:
- Use the Current Account Switch Service to move your main account to Nationwide
- Open a FlexDirect account
- Complete the switch by March 31, 2026
FlexDirect Benefits:
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Switch Bonus | £175 |
| Interest Rate | 5% AER on balances up to £1,500 (for 12 months) |
| Cashback | Up to £5/month on debit card spending |
In total, customers could earn up to £275 if both the switch and Fairer Share bonuses are awarded.
Advice for Customers
Nationwide customers – or those planning to join – are encouraged to prepare based on the assumption that:
- The Fairer Share £100 bonus will return in 2026
- The eligibility deadline will again fall on March 31
- Active use of a current account and holding qualifying products is necessary
While nothing is guaranteed until an official announcement is made, meeting the known past criteria is the safest strategy for those hoping to qualify. Waiting for formal confirmation may result in missing the eligibility window, as has happened in previous years.
FAQs
What is the Fairer Share scheme?
A £100 bonus from Nationwide for eligible members.
When is the eligibility deadline?
March 31, 2026, based on previous years.
Can I still qualify if I switch now?
Yes, if you switch by March 31 using the switch service.
Is the 2026 bonus confirmed?
No, Nationwide hasn’t confirmed it yet.
What’s the total potential bonus?
Up to £275 with switch + Fairer Share bonuses.
