Nationwide Building Society has reminded joint account holders that only the first-named account holder is entitled to vote on society matters, unless the second holder opens a separate account meeting the £100 threshold.
The clarification came after a customer asked when a newly opened joint account would appear on their mobile app. Nationwide initially advised it can take up to seven days for the account to show, and suggested calling if longer.
For joint accounts, both parties have access to funds and each receives a bank card, but only the first-named holder can vote in elections and other matters, provided they meet the voting conditions. The first-named holder is decided by the applicants when opening the account.
However, the second-named holder can vote if they open another account in their sole name that meets the eligibility criteria. To vote, members must be 18 or over and hold a savings, current, or residential mortgage account. Savings or current account holders need at least £100 saved or banked in a membership account by March 31, 2026. Mortgage customers must have at least £100 outstanding on their loan by that date.
Nationwide offers four current accounts that can be opened as joint accounts. The building society encouraged members to check their eligibility ahead of the annual general meeting.
