Navy Federal Credit Union is the world's largest credit union with over 13 million members. Serving military members, veterans, and their families, NFCU offers competitive rates, low fees, and benefits tailored to military life.
Membership Eligibility
Navy Federal membership is available to:
- Active duty military (all branches)
- Veterans and retirees
- DoD civilian employees
- National Guard and Reserve members
- Family members of existing members
- Household members of eligible individuals
Family eligibility extends to parents, grandparents, siblings, children, grandchildren, and spouses—making membership accessible to many who may not realize they qualify.
Navy Federal Checking Accounts
Free EveryDay Checking
No-frills checking with:
- No monthly fees or minimums
- Free debit card
- Mobile deposit
- 32,000+ free ATMs
Flagship Checking
Premium checking earning dividends:
- Competitive dividend rates on balances
- ATM fee refunds (up to $20/month)
- No monthly fee with $1,500 balance
- Free checks
Navy Federal Savings
Multiple savings options:
Share Savings
- $5 minimum to open and maintain
- Dividend-earning account
- NCUA insured up to $250,000
Money Market Savings
- Tiered dividends on higher balances
- Check writing available
- $2,500 minimum for best rates
Certificates (Share Certificates)
- Terms from 3 months to 7 years
- Competitive rates
- $1,000 minimum for standard CDs
- EasyStart Certificates with $50 minimum
Navy Federal Credit Cards
NFCU offers excellent credit cards:
Flagship Rewards
- 3x points on travel
- 2x points on everything else
- $49 annual fee
- No foreign transaction fees
cashRewards
- 1.75% cash back on all purchases
- No annual fee
- Higher rate than most flat-rate cards
More Rewards American Express
- 3x points on supermarkets, gas, transit
- 1x on everything else
- No annual fee
Military-Specific Benefits
NFCU understands military banking needs:
- Deployment support: Special rates and assistance during deployments
- PCS assistance: Relocation support and services
- Power of Attorney: Easy account management for families
- 24/7 support: Available across time zones
- International access: Branches on overseas bases
Loan Products
Competitive rates on:
- Auto loans with low rates
- Personal loans
- Mortgages (including VA loans)
- Home equity loans
- Student loan refinancing
Branch and ATM Access
Navy Federal provides:
- 350+ branch locations
- Many on military installations
- 32,000+ free ATMs nationwide
- CO-OP network access
Digital Banking
The NFCU app includes:
- Mobile deposit
- Bill pay
- Account alerts
- Card controls
- Member-to-member transfers
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent rates across products
- Military-focused services
- Strong customer service
- Broad membership eligibility
- Competitive credit cards
Cons
- Must qualify for membership
- Fewer branches than major banks
- Some services may lag fintech offerings
Who Should Join Navy Federal?
Anyone eligible should consider NFCU. The combination of competitive rates, low fees, and military-specific benefits makes it valuable for service members and their families. Even family members with no military connection often find NFCU better than traditional banks.
Check eligibility at NavyFederal.org
