Restrictions on cryptocurrency payments
We've set some limits on buying cryptocurrency with your card or by bank transfer, using the Faster Payments Service. These will apply where we identify payments to crypto exchanges.
Payments from your current account
We've introduced daily limits on payments made from your current account to purchase cryptocurrency.
Debit card payments
These limits apply any time you use your debit card to pay for cryptocurrency. That includes using a digital wallet, such as Apple Pay or Google Wallet. The limit depends on the type of current account you have.
If you have an adult or student current account, you can spend up to £5,000 a day. These accounts include:
- FlexStudent
- FlexGraduate
- FlexBasic
- FlexAccount
- FlexDirect
- FlexPlus
If you have a FlexOne account, you can spend up to £100 a day.
If you spend more than this amount on cryptocurrency purchases in a day, the transaction will be declined.
If you have a joint account, the daily limits apply to each card. And if you have more than one current account, the limit will apply to each account.
Transfers from your current account
This limit applies when you make a transfer from your current account using the Faster Payments Service.
You’ll be able to spend up to £5,000 a day for transfers made to purchase cryptocurrency. If you have more than one Nationwide current account, this limit will apply to each of your accounts.
You use the Faster Payments Service when you make a transfer:
- in branch
- in our Internet Bank
- with our Banking app
- through Open Banking.
Credit card payments
You can no longer use your credit card to purchase cryptocurrency, whether you're the main or additional credit card holder.
Why we've made these changes
There are certain risks with purchasing cryptocurrency, as highlighted by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). We've set up these restrictions to help protect you and to try and keep your money safe.
Payments to cryptocurrency firm Binance
Payments to the cryptocurrency firm Binance using your Nationwide cards will be declined. You will not be charged and no money will leave your account.
Payments to Binance will remain restricted until further notice as we continue to review and monitor the situation.
Information:
You can still withdraw any money you already have with Binance into your Nationwide account.
Why we restrict payments to Binance
Our number one priority is, and always will be, keeping you and your money safe.
This is why we have taken the decision to restrict card payments made to the cryptocurrency firm Binance. This follows similar action from other providers, media coverage and regulatory uncertainty.
Direct requests for payments
Even with your direct consent in person or by telephone, we can’t remove the restriction and allow you to make a payment to Binance.