Introduction
Nationwide Building Society has confirmed a major update regarding its popular £100 bonus payment scheme for eligible members. The mutual financial institution, which is owned by its members rather than shareholders, has made a significant announcement about the return of its “Fairer Share” payment scheme in 2025. This move is set to benefit millions of customers across the UK, rewarding loyalty at a time when cost-of-living pressures remain high.
The £100 Bonus: What Is It?
The £100 bonus, also known as the “Nationwide Fairer Share Payment,” was first introduced in 2023 as a way to give back to members. The bonus is available to eligible current account holders who also hold either a mortgage or a savings account with the society. Nationwide paid out more than £340 million to members in the first round of bonuses.
In 2024, the building society repeated the payment to around 3.4 million eligible members, reflecting strong financial performance and a commitment to sharing profits with those who bank with them. The payment comes as part of a wider effort by mutual organisations to demonstrate the benefits of membership and mutuality.
What’s New in 2025?
Nationwide has now confirmed that the £100 bonus payment will be returning for a third consecutive year in 2025. The update came directly from Nationwide Chief Executive Debbie Crosbie, who said:
“We’re owned by our members and run for their benefit, which is why we’re proud to confirm we’ll be making another Fairer Share Payment in 2025.”
Crosbie added that the decision reflects Nationwide’s ongoing commitment to sharing its financial success with those who contribute to it. The payment is part of a broader package of support for members, including competitive savings rates, new mortgage offers, and access to exclusive products.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the 2025 Fairer Share bonus, members must meet specific criteria, which are expected to be similar to previous years:
- Hold a Nationwide current account (such as FlexAccount, FlexDirect, or FlexPlus).
- Have at least £100 in a Nationwide savings account or an active Nationwide mortgage by a specific cut-off date.
- Have met certain activity requirements on their current account, such as setting up direct debits or receiving a regular income.
Exact eligibility details will be confirmed by Nationwide closer to the payment date, which is expected in late spring or early summer 2025. Members who qualify will receive the payment automatically—there is no need to apply.
Why Nationwide Is Doing This
Nationwide’s decision to return the £100 payment is part of its broader strategy to distinguish itself from traditional banks. Unlike high-street giants such as Barclays, HSBC, or Lloyds, Nationwide operates as a building society, meaning it’s owned by its members rather than shareholders.
This structure allows Nationwide to reinvest profits directly into services, member rewards, and community initiatives. The Fairer Share Payment is one of the clearest demonstrations of that philosophy.
Crosbie emphasised that mutual ownership allows Nationwide to act differently from listed banks:
“Because we don’t have shareholders, we can put our members first. The Fairer Share Payment is one of the ways we’re showing our appreciation for their loyalty.”
Member Reaction
The response from members has been overwhelmingly positive. In 2023 and 2024, many took to social media and forums to praise Nationwide for the unexpected boost. With the UK economy still feeling the effects of inflation and rising living costs, a £100 cash injection is especially welcome.
Many members also view the payment as a sign that their loyalty is genuinely valued—something they feel is increasingly rare among traditional banking institutions.
Broader Impact and Context
Nationwide’s bonus payment also comes at a time when other financial institutions are under pressure to support customers. Regulators and politicians have called on banks to pass on interest rate rises to savers and to provide more transparency around charges.
While most UK banks have posted strong profits in recent years, few have offered direct payments to customers in the way Nationwide has. The building society’s mutual model continues to stand out in the financial sector.
The payments also come alongside a broader push for ethical banking practices. Nationwide has invested in community projects, digital banking innovation, and initiatives to support first-time buyers—all while maintaining competitive interest rates on savings and mortgages.
When Will the Payment Arrive?
While an exact payment date for the 2025 bonus has not yet been announced, previous years provide a good benchmark. In 2023 and 2024, the £100 bonus was paid out between May and June.
Nationwide is expected to announce the specific eligibility criteria and payment timeline in early 2025, likely through their website, mobile app, and direct communication to members via email or post.
Members are advised to ensure their contact details are up to date and to keep an eye on official Nationwide updates to avoid missing out.
What to Do Next
If you’re a Nationwide member and want to check your potential eligibility:
- Make sure you hold an active Nationwide current account.
- Consider whether you also have a savings or mortgage product with the society.
- Watch for official announcements in the new year to confirm the exact requirements and key dates.
Final Thoughts
Nationwide’s decision to extend its £100 bonus payment scheme into 2025 solidifies its reputation as a customer-first financial institution. In an increasingly profit-driven sector, its member-focused approach offers a refreshing alternative and meaningful financial support at a time when many households need it most.
The 2025 Fairer Share Payment is more than just a cash bonus—it’s a statement of values from one of the UK’s largest mutuals.