About Credit Union
Navy Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial institution that focuses on serving the unique needs of military members, veterans, and their families. With a mission to put its members first, Navy Federal Credit Union operates on a set of values that include service, integrity, and community, serving its members online and through a network of physical branches, often located near military bases.
The company states that compassionate service is at the core of Navy Federal Credit Union's approach to serving its members. The credit union strives to understand and care about what is important to its members and is dedicated to their overall financial well-being. As a not-for-profit credit union, Navy Federal Credit Union is committed to doing what is right for its membership as a whole. It is focused on providing real value to each and every member.
Navy Federal Credit Union was founded during the Great Depression by 7 Navy Department employees who wanted to help themselves, and their co-workers reach their financial goals. Today, the credit union serves over 12 million member-owners and is still driven by the same mission that inspired its founders.
As a member-owned financial institution, Navy Federal Credit Union offers great rates, lower fees, and exclusive discounts. Any surplus funds are returned to members as dividends, reduced loan interest, and improvements to products and services. The credit union is built on a sound foundation and adheres to a strong Code of Ethics focused on honesty and transparency in its products and services.
The National Credit Union Administration insures members' savings up to $250,000, and Navy Federal Credit Union adheres to sound financial underwriting practices. The credit union is audited regularly by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent auditing firm.
In summary, Navy Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution that is dedicated to serving the unique needs of active duty service members, veterans, and their family members. Its focus on values such as service, integrity, and community makes it a trusted partner for its members.
Key Features
Navy Federal Credit Union offers a range of key features that make it a popular choice among military community members. Some of the key features of Navy Federal Credit Union include:
Member-owned
Not-for-profit
Competitive interest rates
Low fees
Convenient access
Military focus
Financial education
Requirements
Navy Federal Credit Union has a broad field of membership that includes current and retired members of the armed forces, military families and household members, Department of Defense personnel, and more. Here are the eligibility requirements to join Navy Federal Credit Union:
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Active Duty, Retired, and Veterans. Servicemembers in all branches of the armed forces, including the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Space Force, are eligible for membership. Delayed Entry Program (DEP), DoD Officer Candidate/ROTC, DoD Reservists, and veterans, retirees, and annuitants are also eligible.
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Family Member eligibility. Immediate family members of eligible servicemembers, including parents, grandparents, spouses, siblings, children (including adopted and stepchildren), grandchildren, and household members, are eligible for membership.
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Department of Defense Civilians. DoD civilian personnel, including DoD civilian employees, U.S. Government employees assigned to DoD installations, DoD contractors assigned to U.S. Government installations, and DoD civilian retirees and annuitants, are eligible for membership.
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Minor Membership. Existing members who are parents, grandparents, or guardians of a minor can sign in and share the gift of membership using the online minor membership application. Children (including adopted and stepchildren) and grandchildren are eligible for minor membership.
To become a Navy Federal Credit Union member, eligible individuals can visit the credit union's website and follow the instructions to apply for membership online or by phone. The application process typically requires providing personal and contact information, proof of eligibility, and opening a checking account or a savings account with a minimum deposit.
Access on the Go
Navy Federal Credit Union offers several convenient ways to access its services on the go, including:
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Mobile app. Navy Federal Credit Union has a mobile app that is available for download on the Apple Store for iOS devices, Google Play Store for Android devices, and the Amazon Appstore for Kindle Fire devices. The app allows members to manage their accounts, deposit checks, transfer funds, pay bills, and more.
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Online banking. Members can access their accounts and manage their finances from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection through Navy Federal Credit Union's online banking platform.
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Text banking. Members can receive account balances and transaction history via text message by enrolling in Navy Federal Credit Union's text banking service.
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Telephone banking. Members can access their accounts and perform transactions by phone through Navy Federal Credit Union's telephone banking service.
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Branches and ATMs. Navy Federal Credit Union has a network of branches and ATMs located throughout the United States and overseas, making it easy for members to access their accounts and withdraw cash on the go.
Navy Federal Credit Union Products
Navy Federal Credit Union offers a range of financial products and services designed to meet the unique needs of military service members, veterans, and their families. Here's an overview of the products offered by Navy Federal Credit Union:
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Checking & Savings accounts. With Navy Federal Credit Union, you can open a checking account such as a Free Campus Checking, a Free EveryDay Checking, a Free Easy Checking, a Flagship Checking, a Free Active Duty Checking, a basic savings account, a money market savings account, a retirement savings account, or an education savings account. Monthly service fees and minimum balance requirements do not apply to most checking accounts. On the other side, you can earn interest and enjoy ATM rebates. Certificates, prepaid and gift cards, and investment services are also available. Members can also enroll in direct deposit to ensure seamless deposits while they are deployed or traveling.
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Loans & Credit Cards. Navy Federal Credit Union offers a range of loan products, including auto loans, home equity loans, mortgages, personal loans, and student loans. The credit union also offers a variety of credit cards, including rewards cards, cashback cards, and cards designed for military members.
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Insurance. Navy Federal Credit Union offers a range of insurance products, including auto insurance, home insurance, life insurance, and personal liability insurance.
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Business Services. Navy Federal Credit Union offers a range of business services, including business checking accounts, loans, credit cards, and merchant services.
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Investment services. The credit union offers online, do-it-yourself investing tools, as well as automated portfolio management and personalized investment strategies to help you make the most of your money. With a range of investment options and expert guidance from Navy Federal Investment Services, members can confidently pursue their financial goals and plan for their future.
Which Associations does Navy Federal Credit Union Belong to?
As a federally chartered credit union, Navy Federal Credit Union is regulated and insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), a U.S. Government Agency. In addition to the NCUA, Navy Federal Credit Union belongs to several associations and organizations that support the credit union industry and its members. These associations include:
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Credit Union National Association (CUNA). Navy Federal Credit Union is a member of CUNA. This national trade association represents credit unions and advocates on behalf of the credit union movement.
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National Association of Federally-Insured Credit Unions (NAFCU). Navy Federal Credit Union is a member of NAFCU, a trade association that represents federally-insured credit unions and provides advocacy, education, and compliance support to its members.
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Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC). Navy Federal Credit Union is a member of DCUC, a trade association that represents credit unions serving the military community and their families. DCUC provides advocacy and support to its members and works to promote the unique needs of military credit unions.
Navy Federal Credit Union Reliability
Navy Federal Credit Union has a strong reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction. The credit union has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 on Trustpilot, a popular review platform based on over 23,000 customer reviews. Many customers praise Navy Federal Credit Union for its excellent customer service, competitive rates, and convenient online and mobile banking tools.
In addition, Navy Federal Credit Union is one of the financial institutions federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), meaning that deposits are insured up to $250,000 per depositor, making the credit union a safe and secure place to save money. Navy Federal Credit Union is also an Equal Housing Lender. It offers all members fair and equal access to credit and housing regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or other factors.
Overall, Navy Federal Credit Union's high customer satisfaction ratings and federal insurance backing underscore its reliability and commitment to providing excellent service to its members.
Navy Federal Credit Union vs. USAA
Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) and USAA are both financial institutions catering primarily to military members, veterans, and their families. Although they share a target audience, there are key differences between the two in terms of eligibility, financial products, and additional services. Below are some of the main differences to help you make an informed decision:
Eligibility
NFCU. To be eligible for membership, you must be affiliated with the Department of Defense, active duty or retired military, a civilian employee, a contractor, a family member, or a household member of someone who is. Some veteran groups may also qualify.
USAA. USAA membership is primarily open to active duty, retired military personnel, National Guard, and Reserve members, as well as their spouses and children. Additionally, some products are available to non-military individuals.
Financial products
Both institutions offer a range of financial products, such as checking and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, and investment options. However, there may be differences in the specific products, fees, rates, and rewards.
NFCU. Known for competitive interest rates on loans, mortgages, and credit cards, as well as lower fees. NFCU also offers a broader range of account types, including different savings account options.
USAA. Offers a comprehensive suite of financial products but may have higher fees and less competitive interest rates than NFCU. USAA is known for its excellent customer service and user-friendly online and mobile banking experience.
Insurance products
NFCU. Does not offer insurance products directly but partners with other providers to offer members insurance options for auto, home, life, and more.
USAA. Offers a wide range of insurance products directly, including auto, home, renters, life, and specialty insurances (such as motorcycle, boat, and RV). USAA is known for its competitive insurance rates and comprehensive coverage options.
Customer service and branch access
NFCU. Operates more than 340 physical branches worldwide, mainly in the United States. This provides members with more access to in-person services. NFCU also offers phone and online customer support.
USAA. Primarily operates online and through mobile apps, with only a few physical locations. USAA is known for its top-notch phone and online customer service, but members looking for in-person services may find the limited branch access less convenient.
ATM access
NFCU. Offers access to more than 30,000 fee-free ATMs but also provides rebates for some out-of-network ATM fees.
USAA. Provides access to 60,000+ USAA-preferred ATMs and offers unlimited fee rebates for using out-of-network ATMs within certain limits.
Both institutions have their strengths, and the choice between them may come down to individual preferences and priorities, such as the specific financial products needed, the importance of branch access, or the level of customer service desired.
Navy Federal Credit Union vs. PenFed Credit Union
Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) and PenFed Credit Union (PenFed) are both credit unions serving members of the military, veterans, and their families. While they have similar target audiences, the two have key differences in eligibility, financial products, and additional services. Here are some of the main distinctions:
Eligibility
NFCU. Membership is open to Department of Defense personnel (active duty or retired), civilian employees, contractors, family members of eligible individuals, and certain veteran groups.
PenFed. PenFed's eligibility is more inclusive, as membership is open to anyone, regardless of military affiliation. However, those without military ties can join by becoming a partner organization member (typically requiring a small donation).
Financial products
Both institutions offer a variety of financial products, such as checking and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, and investment options. However, there are differences in the specific products, fees, rates, and rewards.
NFCU. Known for competitive interest rates on loans, mortgages, and credit cards, as well as lower fees. NFCU also offers a broader range of account types, including different savings account options.
PenFed. Offers competitive interest rates on loans, especially on auto loans and mortgages, and has low fees. PenFed's product offerings may be more limited compared to NFCU.
Customer service and branch access
NFCU. Operates over 340 physical branches worldwide, mainly in the United States, providing members with better access to in-person services. NFCU also offers phone and online customer support.
PenFed. Has a more limited number of branch locations, with approximately 50 branches across the United States, which could make in-person service less convenient. PenFed also offers phone and online customer support.
ATM access
NFCU. Offers access to more than 30,000 fee-free ATMs and also provides rebates for some out-of-network ATM fees.
PenFed. Provides access to more than 85,000 fee-free ATMs, giving members a broader range of ATMs to choose from without incurring fees.
Additional services
NFCU. Offers additional services like financial planning, education resources, and discounts for members, as well as partner relationships for insurance products.
PenFed. Offers a more limited range of additional services, with some financial education resources and partner relationships for insurance products.
Both NFCU and PenFed have their own strengths, and the choice between them depends on individual preferences and priorities, such as the specific financial products needed, the importance of branch access, or the level of customer service desired by banking customers.
Navy Federal Credit Union vs. Bank of America
Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) and Bank of America (BoA) are two distinct types of financial institutions. While NFCU is a credit union specifically serving military members, veterans, and their families, BoA is a large, nationwide commercial bank serving a wide range of customers. Here are some key differences between the two:
Eligibility
NFCU. Membership is restricted to Department of Defense personnel (active duty or retired), civilian employees, contractors, family members of eligible individuals, and certain veteran groups.
BoA. As a commercial bank, BoA is open to the general public without any specific eligibility requirements.
Ownership and Structure
NFCU. As a credit union, NFCU is a not-for-profit institution owned and operated by its members. Any profits are returned to members in the form of lower fees, better rates, and enhanced services.
BoA. A for-profit commercial bank, Bank of America is owned by shareholders, with a primary goal to generate profits for those shareholders.
Financial products
Both institutions offer a range of financial products, such as checking and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, and investment options. However, there are differences in the specific products, fees, rates, and rewards.
NFCU. Known for competitive interest rates on loans, mortgages, and credit cards, as well as lower fees. NFCU also offers a broader range of account types, including different savings account options.
BoA. Offers a wide variety of financial products but may have higher fees and less competitive interest rates compared to NFCU. BoA does provide access to a larger suite of investment and wealth management services.
Customer service and branch access
NFCU. Operates over 340 physical branches worldwide, mainly in the United States, and offers phone and online customer support.
BoA. As a larger institution, BoA has a more extensive network of branches, with over 4,000 locations across the United States, offering greater accessibility for in-person services. BoA also provides phone and online customer support.
ATM access
NFCU. Offers access to more than 30,000 fee-free ATMs and provides rebates for some out-of-network ATM fees.
BoA. Has a more extensive network of ATMs, with more than 16,000 ATMs across the United States.
Financial stability
NFCU. As a credit union, NFCU is typically considered more financially stable, with a lower risk of failure, as profit motives do not drive it.
BoA. As a commercial bank, BoA is susceptible to economic fluctuations, which may impact its financial stability.
The choice between NFCU and Bank of America will depend on your specific needs, priorities, and eligibility. If you're eligible for NFCU and value competitive rates and fees with a focus on member benefits, NFCU may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer the convenience of a larger branch network and a broader suite of financial products and do not have military affiliations, Bank of America could be a better fit.
Navy Federal Credit Union vs. Wells Fargo
Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) and Wells Fargo are two different types of financial institutions. NFCU is a credit union primarily serving military members, veterans, and their families, while Wells Fargo is a large, nationwide commercial bank serving diverse customers. Here are some key differences between the two:
Eligibility
NFCU. Membership is limited to Department of Defense personnel (active duty or retired), civilian employees, contractors, family members of eligible individuals, and certain veteran groups.
Wells Fargo. As a commercial bank, Wells Fargo is open to the general public without any specific eligibility requirements.
Ownership and Structure
NFCU. As a credit union, NFCU is a not-for-profit institution owned and operated by its members. Any profits are returned to members in the form of lower fees, better rates, and enhanced services.
Wells Fargo. A for-profit commercial bank, Wells Fargo is owned by shareholders with the primary goal of generating profits for those shareholders.
Financial products
Both institutions offer a range of financial products, such as checking and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, and investment options. However, there are differences in the specific products, fees, rates, and rewards.
NFCU. Known for competitive interest rates on loans, home loans, and credit cards, as well as lower fees. NFCU also offers a broader range of account types, including different savings account options.
Wells Fargo. Offers a wide variety of financial products but may have higher fees and less competitive interest rates compared to NFCU. Wells Fargo provides access to a larger investment and wealth management services suite.
Customer service and branch access
NFCU. Operates over 340 physical branches worldwide, mainly in the United States, and offers phone and online customer support.
Wells Fargo. With a more extensive network of branches, Wells Fargo has around 5,000 locations across the United States, offering greater accessibility for in-person services. Wells Fargo also provides phone and online customer support.
ATM access
NFCU. Offers access to more than 30,000 fee-free ATMs and provides rebates for some out-of-network ATM fees.
Wells Fargo. Has an extensive network of ATMs, with over 13,000 ATMs across the United States.
Financial stability
NFCU. As a credit union, NFCU is typically considered more financially stable, with a lower risk of failure, as profit motives do not drive it.
Wells Fargo. As a commercial bank, Wells Fargo is susceptible to economic fluctuations, which may impact its financial stability.
The choice between NFCU and Wells Fargo will depend on your specific needs, priorities, and eligibility. If you're eligible for NFCU and value competitive rates and fees with a focus on member benefits, NFCU may be the better option. However, Wells Fargo could be a better fit if you prefer the convenience of a larger branch network and a broader suite of financial products and do not have military affiliations.
Navy Federal Credit Union vs. Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union
Navy Federal Credit Union and Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union are both credit unions that offer financial products and services to their members. Here are some key differences between the two:
Membership. Navy Federal Credit Union is exclusively for military service members, veterans, and their families, while Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in certain areas of Texas.
Size. Navy Federal Credit Union is one of the largest credit unions in the world, with over 12 million members and more than 340 branches worldwide. Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union is smaller, with just over 900,000 members and 60 branches in Texas.
Products and Services. While both credit unions offer similar products, such as checking and savings accounts, loans, credit cards, and investment services, there are some differences in the specifics. For example, Navy Federal Credit Union offers a wider range of credit cards, including those designed specifically for military members. In contrast, Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union offers RV and boat loans.
Interest Rates and Fees. Navy Federal Credit Union and Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union have different fee structures and interest rates for their products. For example, Navy Federal Credit Union's savings accounts and certificates generally offer higher interest rates than Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union's. At the same time, Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union does not charge foreign transaction fees on its credit cards, whereas Navy Federal Credit Union does.
While both credit unions offer valuable financial services to their members, some key differences exist in their membership requirements, size, products, and fees. Prospective members should carefully evaluate the features and benefits of each credit union to determine which one best suits their needs.
