Nationwide Building Society, the UK's largest mutual and world's biggest building society, has clarified why some of its customers are noticing unexpected payments of up to £300 in their bank accounts. This initiative, known as the Fairer Share Payment, is part of the society's commitment to sharing profits with its members, particularly those who bank, save, or hold a mortgage with the institution.
Understanding the Fairer Share Payment Scheme
On its official website, Nationwide, which operates branches in Birmingham and across the country, detailed the scheme. It stated: "We share our profits with our members' refers to our Fairer Share Payment. If you bank as well as save or have a mortgage with us, you could benefit from our Fairer Share Payments."
The building society has been distributing these payments since 2023, with some members receiving £300. However, Nationwide emphasised that while it intends to make such payments annually, this is contingent on its financial performance. The amount and eligibility criteria may be adjusted based on how the society fares economically each year.
Customer Satisfaction and Branch Commitments
Nationwide also highlighted its achievement of being rated the "Best high street banking provider for customer satisfaction" in the building society and banking sector, according to The UK Customer Satisfaction Index published by The Institute of Customer Service in July 2025. Among 18 banking providers, Nationwide's peer group consists of brands with their own branches, excluding hubs and the Post Office.
In a move to reassure customers, Nationwide reiterated its promise to keep all branches open until at least the start of 2030, barring unforeseen circumstances. Branch opening times may vary, but this commitment underscores its dedication to maintaining a physical presence on high streets.
Customer Reactions to the Payments
The Fairer Share Payments have elicited positive responses from Nationwide members. One long-standing customer shared: "I've been with Nationwide for as long as I can remember. Always been the best. You helped me when my husband died 13 years ago now. And now you're helping again so Thank you Nationwide."
Another member expressed gratitude, saying: "Nationwide just paid me £100, it's come in handy & at the right time." A third customer celebrated the windfall, noting: "Nationwide are absolute legends with fairer share payment case it meant I got all my merch at Alton Towers yesterday for free, legends." Additionally, one user typed: "Omg getting another free 100 pounds from Nationwide this year?? too right thank u nationwide."
This profit-sharing approach reflects Nationwide's mutual status, where members, rather than external shareholders, benefit from the society's successes. As the financial landscape evolves, such initiatives aim to foster loyalty and satisfaction among its customer base.
