Nationwide Building Society has issued an update on the future of its Fairer Share Payment scheme – a popular initiative that rewards eligible members with a share of the society’s annual profits. While the 2026 bonus has not yet been confirmed, Nationwide has shared the timeline for when a decision will be made.
Over recent years, the Fairer Share Payment has become a regular benefit for qualifying customers, with £100 payments issued in 2023, 2024, and 2025. For loyal members, that has meant up to £300 in total bonuses so far.
Scheme
The Fairer Share Payment is Nationwide’s way of sharing its profits with members. To qualify for the 2025 payout, members had to:
- Hold an eligible current account, and
- Have either an eligible savings account or an eligible mortgage
This structure aimed to reward customers who actively use multiple services with the building society.
Nationwide has emphasised that the scheme is not guaranteed. A statement on its website reads:
“We’d like to make Fairer Share Payments every year, but it depends on how we perform financially.”
In addition, the society says that future payments may involve different eligibility criteria and different payout amounts.
2026 Decision
When asked about plans for a 2026 round of Fairer Share Payments, a Nationwide spokesperson said the final call will depend on the society’s financial results.
“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.”
In short, customers can expect to know more about the 2026 bonus in May, when Nationwide publishes its full-year financial results.
Past Payouts
Here’s a quick look at recent Fairer Share Payment history:
| Year | Payment Amount | Estimated Recipients |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | £100 | ~3.4 million |
| 2024 | £100 | ~4 million |
| 2025 | £100 | ~4 million |
These payments are tax-free and deposited directly into member accounts, providing a simple way for Nationwide to reward ongoing loyalty.
Other Offers
The Fairer Share Payment is separate from other recent customer incentives offered by Nationwide.
Big Nationwide Thank You
In 2024, about 12 million customers received a £50 thank-you bonus, following the building society’s acquisition of Virgin Money. This was a one-time gesture and not part of the Fairer Share scheme.
Members who received their £50 via postal cheque were required to cash it by January 1, 2026.
Switching Offer
Nationwide is also currently running a £175 switching bonus for new and existing customers who open a:
- Flex Direct
- Flex Account
- Flex Plus
To qualify, you must transfer a current account from another provider and meet the required conditions. After eligibility is confirmed, the £175 bonus is paid within 10 days and will appear in your statement as ‘Switching Offer’. The account must remain active to receive the funds.
What To Expect
While many Nationwide members are hopeful the 2026 Fairer Share Payment will go ahead, the final decision rests with the board and will depend on how the organisation performs financially during the current year.
For now, members are advised to keep their eligible accounts active and look out for announcements in May 2026. If Nationwide continues the scheme, it could mark the fourth year in a row of Fairer Share payouts.
FAQs
When will the 2026 Fairer Share decision be made?
Nationwide will confirm in May 2026 with full-year results.
How much was the 2025 Fairer Share bonus?
£100 was paid to over 4 million members.
Can the eligibility criteria change?
Yes, Nationwide may revise who qualifies each year.
Is the £175 switching offer still available?
Yes, if you switch to an eligible Nationwide account.
