The Fairer Share scheme, which rewards eligible members with a £100 cash payment, has been a regular feature for Nationwide customers since its introduction. However, the building society has yet to announce whether the payment will be made in 2026. A Nationwide spokesperson said the board will decide on a Fairer Share payment for 2026 depending on the society's financial performance, with the decision to be announced as part of the full-year results in May. The scheme's future remains uncertain, as the mutual has not provided any guarantees beyond stating that the decision hinges on its annual financial health. Members who have come to expect the annual bonus are now waiting for the May announcement to learn if they will receive the payment again.
To qualify for last year's payment, customers needed a qualifying current account with Nationwide, along with either a qualifying savings account or a mortgage. According to the Daily Mirror, finance expert Rachel Springall of Moneyfactscompare.co.uk noted that Nationwide has consistently offered the payment over the past three years and hopes to do so again, but it all depends on the mutual's performance. She also advised members to check if they meet the eligibility terms moving forward. Springall emphasized that while the payment has become a welcome bonus for many, there is no guarantee it will continue, and customers should stay informed about any changes to the criteria.
Nationwide have consistently offered the Fairer Share payment over the past three years, and they hope to do it again. However, it is all down to the performance of the mutual, so this is what members need to be aware of this year.
In addition to the Fairer Share scheme, Nationwide has previously offered switching incentives to attract new customers. A year ago, the bank offered £200 to switchers from the end of May until mid-July 2025, according to Rachel Springall. More recently, a £175 switching offer was available to those moving their current account to a FlexDirect, FlexAccount, or FlexPlus account. It remains unclear whether Nationwide will launch another switching bonus offer in 2026. The mutual has a history of using such incentives to grow its customer base, but like the Fairer Share payments, these offers are subject to change based on the society's strategic priorities and financial position.
It is also important that members check if they meet the terms to be eligible for the payment moving forward.
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.
It is entirely possible that Nationwide could bring out another free cash switching offer, a year ago they were offering £200 to switchers at the end of May, all the way until mid-July 2025.