Have you ever considered a financial institution that truly understands and serves the unique needs of the military community and their families? If so, USAA might be exactly what you're looking for! Known for its dedication to service members, veterans, and their eligible families, USAA offers a comprehensive range of financial products, from banking and insurance to investments.
Opening an account with USAA is a straightforward process, but it all starts with understanding their specific eligibility requirements. Let's embark on this journey together, step-by-step, to help you become a valued USAA member.
Your Comprehensive Guide: How to Open an Account with USAA
Step 1: Discover If You're Eligible to Join the USAA Family!
Are you ready to unlock a world of tailored financial services? The very first and most crucial step in opening an account with USAA is determining your eligibility. USAA is not open to just anyone; it's exclusively for those with a military affiliation.
Understanding USAA's Membership Eligibility:
USAA's membership has expanded over the years to serve a broader range of the military community. Here's a detailed breakdown of who typically qualifies:
- Active Duty Military: This includes individuals currently serving in the U.S. Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and Navy.
- Veterans: If you've honorably served in the U.S. military, you're likely eligible. This includes those who have retired or were honorably discharged.
- Pre-commissioned Officers: This category typically includes:
- Cadets and midshipmen at U.S. service academies.
- Those in advanced ROTC or on ROTC scholarship.
- Officer candidates within 24 months of commissioning.
- Spouses of Eligible Members: If your spouse is a USAA member or is eligible for membership, you may also qualify.
- Children of USAA Members: Once a parent establishes USAA membership, their children can often join as well, and this eligibility can even extend to future generations.
- Certain Federal Agency Employees: In some cases, employees of specific federal agencies, such as the FBI, may also be eligible.
It's worth noting that in the past, USAA sometimes required the purchase of an insurance policy to "lock in" membership, but this is no longer the case. You can typically establish eligibility and receive a member number without an initial product purchase.
How to Verify Your Eligibility:
The easiest way to confirm your eligibility is to visit the official USAA website (
Step 2: Gather Your Essential Documents and Information
Once you've confirmed your eligibility, the next step is to prepare the necessary documentation. Having everything ready beforehand will make the application process much smoother and faster.
What Information and Documents You'll Likely Need:
- Proof of Identity: A valid, government-issued photo ID is essential. This could include:
- Driver's License
- State-issued ID Card
- Passport
- Social Security Number (SSN): This is required for identity verification and tax purposes.
- Date of Birth: Your full date of birth.
- Current Residential Address: Your complete mailing address.
- Contact Information: This includes your phone number and email address.
- Proof of Military Service (if applicable): This is critical for verifying your eligibility. Acceptable documents may include:
- DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) - often the "long version"
- Discharge Certificate
- Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) - for active service members
- Military Orders (for active service members or those in a Delayed Entry Program, a DD Form 4 might be needed)
- Information for Initial Deposit: While you don't always need to deposit funds immediately to establish membership, you will need to fund your account when you open a banking product. This can be done via:
- Transfer from an existing checking or savings account (USAA or external bank)
- Debit or credit card (for smaller initial deposits)
Tip: Make sure all your documents are current and reflect your accurate information. Any discrepancies could cause delays.
Step 3: Begin Your Online Application or Call USAA Directly
With your eligibility confirmed and documents in hand, you're ready to start the application process. USAA offers convenient ways to join.
Option 1: Applying Online (Recommended for Speed and Convenience)
- Visit the Official USAA Website: Navigate to
USAA.com - Locate the "Join USAA" or "Become a Member" Section: This is usually prominently displayed on the homepage.
- Start the Membership Application: You'll be guided through a series of questions to verify your eligibility and collect your personal information.
- Provide Required Details: Accurately input your full name, address, date of birth, Social Security Number, and military service details as prompted.
- Upload Verification Documents: If requested, you will be prompted to upload copies of your military service documents and government-issued ID. USAA typically has a secure portal for this. Allow up to 3 days for document processing.
- Review and Submit: Carefully review all the information you've entered before submitting your application.
Option 2: Applying by Phone
If you prefer to speak with a representative, or if you encounter any issues with the online application, you can always call USAA directly.
- Find the USAA Customer Service Number: The general membership line is typically 1-800-531-USAA (8722).
- Explain Your Intention to Join: Inform the representative that you wish to establish a USAA membership and open an account.
- Provide Information Over the Phone: The representative will guide you through the eligibility questions and collect your personal and military service details.
- Send Verification Documents: You may be instructed on how to securely send copies of your military documents and ID (e.g., via upload to their website or mail).
Important Note: For new military recruits, USAA may offer specific benefits, like a $0 initial deposit for a checking account. If you are a new recruit, it's particularly beneficial to call them at 855-764-4667 to get started.
Step 4: Choose Your Account Type and Make Your Initial Deposit
Once your membership is established, you can proceed to open specific accounts that meet your financial needs. USAA offers a variety of banking products.
Popular USAA Account Types:
- Checking Accounts:
- USAA Classic Checking: A standard checking account with features like ATM fee refunds (up to $10 per statement cycle for out-of-network ATMs), early payday with direct deposit, and fraud protection. Minimum initial deposit is typically $25, but can be waived for new recruits.
- USAA Youth Spending: Designed for individuals under 18 to learn financial management, with a low minimum opening deposit of $25.
- Savings Accounts:
- USAA Savings: A basic savings account, typically with a low minimum deposit of $25 and no monthly fees.
- USAA Performance First Savings Account: Offers potentially higher interest rates for larger balances, with a higher minimum opening deposit (e.g., $1,000 or more).
- Certificates of Deposit (CDs):
- USAA offers various CDs, including Fixed-Rate, Adjustable-Rate, and Variable-Rate, with differing minimum deposits and terms. These are ideal for saving money with a fixed interest rate for a set period.
- Other Financial Products: Beyond traditional banking, USAA also provides:
- Credit Cards
- Auto Loans
- Home Mortgages
- Personal Loans
- Investment Services (Brokerage, Mutual Funds, IRAs, 529 plans)
- Insurance (Auto, Home, Life, Health)
Funding Your New Account:
Once you select your desired account(s), you'll need to make an initial deposit. USAA provides several ways to do this:
- Electronic Transfer: Link an external bank account to transfer funds electronically.
- Debit or Credit Card: For smaller initial deposits, you can use a Visa or Mastercard debit or credit card.
- Mobile Deposit: Deposit checks using the USAA Mobile App.
Note: Some accounts, like the USAA Classic Checking, might have promotional offers for new accounts with qualifying direct deposits.
Step 5: Activate Your Account and Explore Member Benefits
Congratulations! Once your account is opened and funded, you're officially a USAA member. Now it's time to activate your online access and explore the many benefits that come with your membership.
Activating and Managing Your Account:
- Online Banking Access: Set up your online login credentials on USAA.com. This will allow you to manage your accounts, transfer funds, pay bills, and view statements.
- USAA Mobile App: Download the USAA Mobile App for convenient on-the-go access to your accounts. You can check balances, deposit checks, send money with Zelle®, and even access your insurance ID cards.
- Debit Card and Checks: Your debit card will typically be mailed to you within a few business days. Instructions for activation will be included.
Discovering Your Member Perks:
USAA offers a range of exclusive benefits and discounts to its members, extending beyond just financial products. These can include:
- Travel Discounts: Savings on flights, hotels, cruises, and car rentals.
- Shopping Discounts: Access to deals at numerous retail stores.
- Health & Wellness Discounts: Savings on gym memberships, wellness coaching, and prescription medications.
- Entertainment: Discounts on theme park tickets, concerts, and sporting events.
- Home Solutions: Deals on home security, projects, and moving services.
- 24/7 Fraud Monitoring: Automatic protection for your accounts.
- Tailored Guidance: Financial tools and advice specifically designed for the military community.
These perks are often available through USAA Perks®, a free benefit of membership that can lead to significant savings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about opening an account with USAA, with quick answers:
How to check my USAA eligibility?
You can check your eligibility by visiting USAA.com and using their online eligibility tool or by calling their customer service line.
How to open a USAA checking account?
First, establish USAA membership (verify eligibility). Then, you can apply for a USAA checking account online or by phone, providing your personal information and making an initial deposit.
How to transfer money to my new USAA account?
You can transfer money electronically from another USAA account or an external bank account, use a debit/credit card for smaller deposits, or deposit checks via the USAA mobile app.
How to get a USAA debit card?
Once your checking account is opened, your USAA debit card will be mailed to you. Follow the activation instructions included with the card.
How to find my USAA routing number?
The USAA bank routing number is typically 314074269. You can also find it on your checks or by logging into your USAA online account.
How to contact USAA customer service?
You can contact USAA customer service by calling their main number at 1-800-531-USAA (8722) or 210-531-USAA (8722).
How to upload documents to USAA?
USAA typically provides a secure online portal for uploading verification documents after you've started your membership application.
How to get a $0 initial deposit with USAA?
New military recruits may be eligible for a $0 initial deposit when opening a USAA checking account. It's recommended to call USAA directly at 855-764-4667 for this.
How to find USAA ATM locations?
You can find preferred ATM locations on the USAA website or through their mobile app. USAA also refunds up to $10 in ATM fees per statement cycle for out-of-network ATMs.
How to understand USAA's different account types?
USAA offers various checking, savings, and CD accounts. Details on each, including minimum deposits and interest rates, can be found on their banking section of USAA.com or by speaking with a representative.