Picture this: you’re in line at the store or trying to transfer rent, and suddenly, the NatWest banking app isn’t working—trouble with login. No balances. No payments. Just endless spinning wheels or error messages.
If you are having this exact problem today, which I can assure you many others do too, and so this will not be the first time that you are facing this problem. In this guide, I will explain in detail the probable issues with the NatWest app and the reasons as to why it may not be functioning the way it should. The guide is no fluff focused on only humans and provides solutions to other recourses available to them.
Let’s get into it.
Why Is My NatWest App Not Working?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are the most common causes:
- App Glitches or Bugs after an iOS or Android update
- Server Outages on NatWest’s end
- Login Failures due to password or Face ID errors
- Network or VPN interference
- Corrupt App Cache or outdated version
Good news: most of these have simple solutions.
Quick Checks Before You Troubleshoot
- Are other apps working on your phone? If not, it might be your internet.
- Have you recently updated your phone or the app? Bugs sometimes follow updates.
- Is NatWest having a service issue? Check DownDetector for real-time reports.
If you’ve ruled those out, let’s move to the fixes.
How to Fix the NatWest App Not Working (Step-by-Step)
1. Restart the App and Your Phone
Sometimes a restart clears up random glitches.
- Swipe away the NatWest app completely
- Restart your phone
- Reopen the app and try again
Still stuck? Let’s keep going.
2. Check Your Internet Connection
Yes, it seems obvious—but it’s the most common issue.
- Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data
- Try opening a different app or website
- Restart your router if on Wi-Fi
🧠 Insight: Public Wi-Fi (like at cafes) often blocks banking apps. Try using mobile data instead.
3. Update the NatWest App
Outdated apps are a breeding ground for bugs.
- Go to the App Store or Google Play
- Search “NatWest”
- If “Update” is available, do it
Enable automatic updates to stay one step ahead of future bugs.
4. Reinstall the App
Still broken? Start fresh.
- Delete the NatWest app from your phone
- Reboot your phone
- Download the app again and log in
💡 Pro Tip: Reinstalling resets app permissions and clears any corrupted cache that might be causing issues.
5. Disable VPN or Security Apps Temporarily
Banking apps can clash with VPNs, especially those routing traffic through other countries.
- Disable any VPN you’re using
- Try logging in again
- If it works, either keep the VPN off or configure it to allow banking access
6. Reset App Permissions
On newer phones, apps can lose access to necessary permissions after updates.
- Go to Settings > Apps > NatWest
- Check that permissions like “Mobile Data” and “Storage” are enabled
7. Try Face ID or Fingerprint Login Again
Sometimes biometrics get out of sync.
- Open the app manually with your password
- Disable biometric login in settings
- Enable it again to resync
8. Reset Network Settings (Last Resort)
If nothing else works:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Reset Network Settings
⚠️ Warning: You’ll lose saved Wi-Fi passwords, but not personal data.
What If the Problem Is On NatWest’s End?
It happens. NatWest has had a few hiccups with its mobile app in the past, including:
- Login servers down for maintenance
- Unexpected server crashes
- Payment system delays
Check official sources:
- NatWest Service Updates
- DownDetector UK
- Twitter/X: @NatWest_Help
If there’s an outage, sit tight. They usually resolve issues within a few hours.
Alternatives While the App Is Down
You can still manage your banking even if the app is glitching:
- Use NatWest Online Banking via browser: natwest.com
- Call customer service: 03457 888 444 (UK)
- Visit a NatWest ATM or branch (if urgent)
🧠 Unique Insight: If your phone has NFC, you can still use Apple Pay or Google Pay with your NatWest card, even if the app is down.
FAQs – Real Answers for Real Users
Q1: Is NatWest’s app compatible with iOS 18 / Android 14?
Yes, but bugs occasionally appear after system updates. Always make sure the app itself is updated too.
Q2: Why does my NatWest app say “Something went wrong”?
Usually, a server or network issue. Try switching networks, disabling VPN, or waiting if it’s on their end.
Q3: Can I reinstall the NatWest app without losing data?
Yes. Your account and settings are stored on NatWest’s servers, not your phone.
Q4: Is it safe to use NatWest over mobile data?
Absolutely. All data is encrypted. Just avoid logging in over sketchy public Wi-Fi networks.
Q5: Why is Face ID suddenly not working with the app?
This can happen after OS or app updates. Disable Face ID in the app settings, then enable it again.
Final Thoughts
Banking apps should make life easier, not more stressful. If your NatWest app isn’t working, don’t panic. Nine times out of ten, it’s a temporary glitch that a quick fix—or a bit of patience—can solve.
Take a breath, try the steps above, and if it still doesn’t work, don’t hesitate to contact NatWest support.
Your money deserves to move as smoothly as you do.