Nationwide FlexAccount current account review
- Incentive
- £175 cashback for accounts switched using the Current Account Switch Service, including at least 2 direct debits.
- Account fee
- £0
- Interest (AER)
- 0% AER
- Overseas card transactions
- 2.99%
Our verdict
Looking for a new bank account? Find out whether the Nationwide FlexAccount could work for you.
Nationwide's FlexAccount is a hassle-free everyday bank account with no monthly fee. If that's what you're after, then this account is certainly worth a look, particularly as you'll also get access to exclusive savings products. We picked the FlexAccount as having the best linked savings account, because its Flex Regular Saver has a high variable interest rate.
However, if you're looking for something a little more innovative or you're after an account that also offers rewards, this won't be the account for you and you'll need to look elsewhere.
Check out our guide to best bank accounts for more information.
Pros
-
No monthly fee
-
Arranged overdraft available
-
Access to exclusive products such as linked savings account
-
Easy to apply for
-
FSCS protection
Cons
-
Interest charged on overdrafts
-
No interest paid on balances
-
Limited account features
-
Withdrawal limit on linked savings account
Details
Product overview
| Account name | FlexAccount |
| Incentive | £175 cashback for accounts switched using the Current Account Switch Service, including at least 2 direct debits. |
| Provider | Nationwide BS |
| Account fee | £0 |
| Interest (AER) | 0% AER |
| ATM withdrawal limit | £500 |
| Debit network | Visa |
| Card type | Debit |
| Minimum eligibility age | 18 Years |
| Minimum operating balance | £0 |
| Minimum opening balance | £0 |
| Direct debits | |
| Current account switch guarantee | |
| Cheque Book |
Fees
| Currency conversion withdrawal for overseas cash withdrawal in Europe (EEA) | 2.99% |
| Currency conversion withdrawal for overseas cash withdrawal in non-Europe (EEA) | 2.99% |
| Foreign cash transaction fee in Europe | £0 |
| Foreign cash transaction fee in rest of world | £0 |
Overdraft information
| Arranged overdraft available | |
| Overdraft Grace Period | 14:30 same day |
What is the Nationwide FlexAccount current account?
The Nationwide FlexAccount is an everyday bank account with no monthly fee. You can pay in money and access your funds at any time, and you can opt to have an arranged overdraft on the account if you wish.
The account can be opened on an individual or joint basis and can be managed online, via the app, over the phone or in branch.
How does it work?
The Nationwide FlexAccount offers the following key features:
- No monthly fee. There’s no fee charged for maintaining the account.
- Optional savings account. When you apply for your current account online, a savings account can be opened for you at the same time.
- Exclusive access to other products. You’ll also get access to exclusive savings accounts such as the Flex Regular Saver which pays 6.50% AER (variable) for 12 months. You’ll need to pay in up to £200 each month.
- Arranged overdraft. You can apply for an arranged overdraft at any time. Interest is charged at 39.9% EAR.
- Text alerts. Set your text alert preferences to help you manage your money.
- Optional cheque book. You can request a cheque book if you need one.
Who is it for?
The Nationwide FlexAccount could be suitable for anyone requiring an everyday bank account that won’t charge a maintenance fee.
To qualify, you must be aged 18 or over and a UK resident and you must hold no more than 4 existing sole or joint Nationwide current accounts.
How does it compare with other popular banking apps?
Finder Score for bank accounts
To make comparing even easier we came up with the Finder Score. Fees, features and customer service across 20+ of the most popular banks are all weighted and scaled to produce a score out of 10. The higher the score the better the account – simple.
Read the full methodologyWhat are the benefits?
The main benefit of the Nationwide FlexAccount is that there’s no monthly maintenance fee to pay. It could also help you to get into the savings habit as Nationwide can open a savings account for you at the same time as your current account, and you’ll get exclusive access to some accounts.
"I switched to this account primarily to get access to the Flex Regular Saver account, alongside the nice £200 switching offer. I had no reason to doubt Nationwide wouldn’t be a great bank. Having used first direct for the past couple of years I expected very similar service, and so far it has lived up to those expectations. I use this as my primary account to pay direct debits and other monthly living expenses. I don’t use it for everyday spending.
If there’s one thing you’d tell a friend who’s thinking of getting this, what would it be?
I would tell them about the great savings account."
How to apply
If you’re already a Nationwide customer, the fastest way to apply for the FlexAccount is to log in to Internet banking. If not, you can apply for the account online or over the phone.
To open your account, you’ll need:
- Your address history for the past 3 years
- Your employer’s address (if you’re employed)
- A valid UK passport or driving licence
If you don’t have a passport or driving licence you may need to go into a branch with your ID.
Is it safe?
Yes, Nationwide is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the PRA. This means eligible deposits will be protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) up to £85,000 per person (up to £170,000 for joint accounts).
Frequently asked questions
Your reviews
