Millions of customers can now use a free tool that has helped households uncover an average of £555 a month in previously unclaimed support.
Nationwide has expanded its Better Off Indicator to Virgin Money customers as families face mounting pressure during the summer holidays.
The tool helps people check whether they could qualify for benefits, grants and other financial assistance they may not know is available.
Since launching in June 2025, it has helped more than 17,000 households identify a combined £115million in potential annual support. Those found to be missing out could claim an average of £555 extra each month.
More than 550,000 customers have already used Nationwide’s website and app to explore the support available.
The expansion comes as new research highlights the financial strain facing families on Universal Credit during the school holidays.
More than 550,000 customers have already used Nationwide’s website and app to explore the support available
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NATIONWIDE BUILDING SOCIETYA survey by Nationwide and Action for Children, found that two-thirds of parents were worried about being able to afford food during the break.
Some 63 per cent said they were likely to use Buy Now Pay Later services, while 60 per cent expected to borrow from friends or family. A further 59 per cent thought they would need to use credit cards.
Half of low-income parents said they may have to delay rent or mortgage payments, while more than 56 per cent expected to fall behind on household bills during the school holidays.
Across the UK, an estimated £24billion in support goes unclaimed each year.
Around seven million households are thought to be missing out, with many put off by a lack of awareness, the complexity of the system or the stigma attached to claiming.
The tool was built in partnership with Policy in Practice, a social policy research organisation and can be used online, over the phone or with help in a branch.
This means people who are not confident using digital services, or who would rather speak to someone directly, can still get support. Nationwide customers can also access it through the mobile app.
The tool identifies benefits, grants, and other entitlements that people may not realise they can claim
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GETTYKathryn Townsend, Head of Customer Vulnerability at Nationwide, said: “Too many people are missing out on financial support simply because they don’t realise they’re eligible or find the system difficult to navigate.
“At a time when many households are struggling to make ends meet, even a relatively small increase in income can make a real difference.”
She added: “Expanding the service to Virgin Money customers means even more people will be able to benefit from free, personalised support to understand what help is available.”
The service is not restricted to Nationwide or Virgin Money account holders
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GETTY / NATIONWIDEThe service is not restricted to Nationwide or Virgin Money account holders. Anyone can use the Better Off Indicator at no cost, regardless of who they bank with.