In a groundbreaking move, Nationwide Building Society has introduced a nationwide initiative offering UK households the opportunity to claim over £550 in monthly financial support, even if they are not Nationwide customers.
This bold step aims to address the £23 billion in unclaimed government benefits across the country and is part of an effort to support those struggling with financial hardship or digital exclusion.
With a new telephone helpline and online benefits calculator, thousands are already discovering support they didn’t know they qualified for.
Let’s explore how this program works, who can use it, and how you might benefit from this unexpected financial lifeline.
What Is the Nationwide £550 Benefit Support Scheme?
Nationwide has partnered with Policy in Practice, a social policy data organization, to launch its ‘Better Off’ benefits calculator, helping people identify and claim unclaimed benefits.
Initially available only online, this tool has now expanded to include telephone support — a move designed to combat digital exclusion and reach more vulnerable households.
In just the first four weeks since launching, 2,229 households used the service and found they were eligible for an average of £554 per month, totaling over £1.2 million in identified unclaimed support.
Unlike previous tools restricted to customers, this new offering is open to all UK residents, regardless of whether they bank with Nationwide.
Why Is This Change Important?
Millions of people in the UK miss out on essential financial support every year, simply because they:
- Don’t know what they’re eligible for
- Struggle with complicated application processes
- Are not comfortable using digital tools
Nationwide’s program breaks those barriers by giving people the option to either use the online calculator or speak directly with a trained professional over the phone.
Key Details of the Nationwide £550 Benefit Initiative
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Average Benefit Found | £554 per household |
| Total Found (First 4 Weeks) | £1.2 million |
| Target Users | All UK households (not limited to Nationwide customers) |
| Delivery Method | Online benefits calculator + dedicated telephone line |
| Partner | Policy in Practice |
| Goal | Help people access unclaimed DWP and government benefits |
How to Use the ‘Better Off’ Calculator
To find out if you’re eligible for the extra £550+ monthly benefit, follow these steps:
- Online Option:
Visit Nationwide’s official website and access the ‘Better Off’ calculator. You’ll need basic personal and financial information to complete the form. - Phone Option:
Call the dedicated Nationwide benefits support phoneline to speak with an advisor who will guide you through the process and help you understand your eligibility. - Receive Results:
After assessment, you’ll be informed about which benefits or credits you qualify for and how to apply for them.
This non-commercial, inclusive tool provides personalized results and connects you to actual benefits like Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, and more.
What Sets This Initiative Apart?
This marks the first time a financial provider has made free telephone benefit support available to the general public, not just account holders. It also addresses the digital divide, making it accessible to those who:
- Do not have internet access
- Have limited digital skills
- Prefer to speak with someone directly
According to Nationwide, the goal is not only to increase income for those in need but also to make the claiming process less intimidating and more transparent.
With £23 billion in benefits going unclaimed each year, Nationwide’s £550 support scheme arrives as a powerful resource for struggling UK households.
Whether you’re unemployed, underemployed, or unsure if you qualify, now is the time to act and check.
You don’t need to be a Nationwide customer — just someone who could use a little help navigating the complex benefits system.
This move sets a new benchmark for inclusive financial services, offering both convenience and compassion in a time of rising living costs.
Explore your eligibility today and potentially uncover hundreds of pounds in monthly support.
FAQs
Do I need to be a Nationwide customer to use the £550 calculator or helpline?
No. The service is available to everyone in the UK, not just Nationwide account holders.
What documents do I need to use the calculator?
You’ll need your household income details, any benefits you already receive, and your housing situation.
Is the £550 support a guaranteed payment?
No. The calculator identifies potential eligibility. Actual payment depends on whether you successfully apply for and receive the benefits.