Nationwide Building Society has confirmed that some members who have not yet received their £50 bonus may need to take action, which could include visiting a branch, to claim the money. The payment, known as the “Big Nationwide Thank You,” was issued after the society’s acquisition of Virgin Money and reached over 12 million members.
According to figures reported by the Manchester Evening News, the distribution involved direct deposits into various account types and cheques sent by post for others. Nationwide stated that while most payments were received without issue, a number of members still need to follow specific steps to access their funds.
How the £50 Was Paid
The £50 payment was distributed in several ways depending on the type of account held by members. It was either paid directly into a Nationwide current account in the member’s name, credited to an instant access or limited access savings account, deposited into the account used for mortgage direct debit in the case of mortgage customers, or sent as a cheque by post for those without a qualifying account.
Example of a Customer Case
One member reported receiving the £50 directly into their own account, while their children were sent cheques. They later misplaced the cheques and contacted Nationwide, saying:
“I have just had an opportunity to get them banked and can’t find them. Would you be willing to re-issue them?“
Nationwide confirmed it is possible to replace lost cheques. A spokesperson said:
“If the customer calls or pops into a branch we will arrange a replacement to be posted within 10–15 days.“
Deadline to Cash Your Cheque
Members who received the £50 by cheque have until January 1 to deposit or cash it. After this date, the funds will no longer be available unless reissued following Nationwide’s process.
Separate £100 Fairer Share Payment
Nationwide recently issued a separate £100 Fairer Share Payment to over four million customers. To qualify, members needed to have a current account and either a mortgage or a savings account with the mutual. Payments were made between June 18 and July 4 and were only paid into active Nationwide current accounts.
This meant members had to have an open current account at the time of payment to receive it.
Nationwide also confirmed that biometric verification—using either fingerprint or facial recognition—will soon be available to all current account customers through its mobile app. A spokesperson said:
“This option will be available soon to all current account customers using our mobile app. We’re working to extend it to new customers at account opening too, subject to successful completion of account opening checks. For those who prefer, the card reader will continue to be available.“
