Nationwide Gives Major Update on 2025 Bonus Payment

In a fresh announcement that will affect millions of customers, Nationwide Building Society has released a major update regarding its 2025 bonus payment scheme. Known for its customer-first approach and mutual ownership model, Nationwide once again looks set to reward eligible members with a cash bonus — but this year, things come with a few important changes.

Whether you’re a current customer, considering switching to Nationwide, or simply want to stay ahead of your finances, here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 bonus payment, eligibility criteria, how much you could get, and what the update means for the future of mutual banking in the UK.

What Is the Nationwide Bonus Payment?

The Nationwide “Fairer Share” bonus was first introduced in 2023 as a way to give back to loyal customers. As the UK’s largest building society, Nationwide operates as a member-owned mutual, meaning it reinvests profits back into the business or shares them with customers — not shareholders.

Last year, over 3.4 million eligible members received a £100 bonus in their accounts. The initiative was widely praised as a refreshing move during a time of rising living costs.

In 2025, Nationwide is doubling down on this promise — but there are some key changes to who qualifies and how much will be paid.

Nationwide 2025 Bonus Payment – The Big Update

According to the official statement released in early April 2025, Nationwide confirmed it would continue the bonus payment for a third year in a row. However, the bonus amount and eligibility criteria have been updated:

✅ What’s new in 2025:

Bonus Amount: The payment for 2025 will be £125 per eligible member — up from £100 in previous years.
Eligibility Period: Customers must have held qualifying products both on 31 December 2024 and continuously up to 31 March 2025.
New Qualifying Products List: You now need at least one savings product AND one mortgage or current account to qualify.
Payout Date: Payments will be made automatically in June 2025 into eligible members’ Nationwide accounts.

Am I Eligible for the Nationwide Bonus?

To receive the bonus payment in 2025, you must meet the updated “dual product” requirement. This is part of Nationwide’s effort to reward members who use it as their main banking provider.

You must have:

A qualifying current account (FlexDirect, FlexPlus, FlexAccount, etc.)OR a Nationwide mortgage,AND
A qualifying savings account, such as an ISA, instant saver, or regular savings product.

You also need to have:

Held these accounts by 31 December 2024,
Kept them active through to 31 March 2025,
Been a UK resident aged 18 or over.

It’s worth noting that business accounts, dormant products, and some third-party administered investments (like Nationwide’s old partnership savings bonds) do not count toward eligibility.

How and When Will I Get Paid?

If you're eligible, you don’t need to do anything. Nationwide will automatically deposit the bonus into your main active current or savings account in June 2025.

Eligible members will receive a confirmation email or message via online banking beforehand, so make sure your contact details are up to date.

The bonus will appear on your statement as something like:

"Nationwide Fairer Share Payment – £125"

Why Is Nationwide Doing This?

Nationwide’s bonus payment is part of its broader Fairer Share initiative, which aims to demonstrate the benefits of mutual banking and differentiate it from traditional banks.

Debbie Crosbie, Nationwide’s Chief Executive, said in the 2025 announcement:“As a mutual, we exist to serve our members, not shareholders. We’re proud to share our success directly with the people who make it possible — our loyal customers. This year’s increased bonus is a thank you for their trust and support.”

The update comes during a time of intense competition in the financial sector, as banks and fintechs alike race to win over UK customers. Nationwide’s bonus payment helps it stand out by rewarding everyday savers and homeowners, rather than investors.

Public Reaction to the 2025 Bonus

So far, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. With many households still navigating rising bills, interest rate changes, and food inflation, a surprise £125 windfall is a welcome boost.

On social media, customers have praised Nationwide’s consistency and fairness:

💬 “Other banks should take notes. Nationwide just keeps proving they’re the best for real people.”💬 “Wasn’t expecting a bonus again — and they’ve increased it? That’s why I stick with them.”

Financial influencers and personal finance experts have also highlighted the scheme as a smart long-term incentive to bank with a mutual institution.