Navy Federal Credit Union offers credit cards to active-duty service members, veterans, retirees, and their families
Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) is a federal credit union that serves the military community. To get a Navy Federal credit card, you must first be a member of the credit union. Membership is open to active-duty service members, retired military, veterans, Department of Defense civilians, and their families. Once you are a member, you can browse their credit card options and request one through your online account or at a branch.
Navy Federal offers several types of credit cards with different rewards structures and features. The most common are their cashback cards, which return a percentage of what you spend. They also offer cards with no annual fee, cards with travel benefits, and cards designed for people building or rebuilding credit. Each card has its own interest rate range, rewards rate, and terms.
Key Takeaways
- You must be a Navy Federal member before you can request a credit card, which requires meeting military affiliation requirements.
- Navy Federal credit cards carry interest rates and annual fees that vary by card type, so comparing the options matters before you request one.
- You can view available cards and their terms on the Navy Federal website or by visiting a branch in person.
- The credit union reports your account activity to the three major credit bureaus, so on-time payments help build your credit history.
How to become a Navy Federal member
Before you can request a credit card, you need a Navy Federal membership. If you are on active duty, retired from the military, or a veteran with a discharge that is not dishonorable, you can join. Spouses and adult children of members can also join. Family members of active-duty service members can join even if the service member is not yet a member.
To join, visit a Navy Federal branch with a valid military ID or discharge papers, or go to their website and complete the membership form online. You will need to provide your name, address, Social Security number, and military affiliation information. Once approved, you can open a checking or savings account and then request a credit card.
If you are not sure whether you are may be able to access, Navy Federal's website has a membership checker tool. You can also call their member services line or visit a branch to ask.
Types of Navy Federal credit cards and their features
Navy Federal offers several credit cards. Their cashback cards return a percentage of your spending as cash rewards. The rate varies by card — some offer higher cashback on certain categories like gas or groceries, while others offer a flat rate on all purchases. These cards typically carry an annual percentage rate (APR) range and may or may not have an annual fee.
They also offer no-annual-fee cards designed for people who want a basic credit card without yearly costs. These cards usually have a lower rewards rate or no rewards at all, but they cost nothing to hold.
Navy Federal has cards for people building credit, which are meant for those with limited or damaged credit history. These cards often come with a lower credit limit and a higher APR, but they report to the credit bureaus and can help you build a stronger credit score over time.
Some Navy Federal cards offer travel benefits like travel insurance, purchase protection, or bonus points on travel purchases. These cards may carry an annual fee to cover those benefits.
Interest rates, fees, and rewards rates
Navy Federal credit cards carry an APR that depends on your creditworthiness and the card you choose. The APR range for each card is shown on their website and in the card terms. Your actual rate will fall somewhere in that range based on your credit score and credit history when you request the card.
Annual fees vary by card. Some Navy Federal cards have no annual fee. Others charge a yearly fee, which is usually between $25 and $95, depending on the card's rewards and benefits. The card details page will show the annual fee clearly.
Rewards rates also differ. Cashback cards may offer 1% to 3% back depending on the category and the card. Some cards offer bonus rewards during an introductory period. Read the card terms to see the exact rewards structure, any caps on rewards, and when the introductory rate ends.
How to request a Navy Federal credit card
Once you are a Navy Federal member, you can request a card online, by phone, or in person at a branch. If you use their website, log into your account and look for the credit card section. You will see the available cards with their features, rates, and fees. Select the card you want and follow the prompts to complete the request.
Navy Federal will review your request and let you know whether you are approved, usually within a few business days. If approved, your card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can set up it through the website or by calling the number on the back of the card when it arrives.
If you request a card by phone, call Navy Federal's member services line and ask to speak with someone about credit cards. They can walk you through the options and submit your request over the phone. If you visit a branch, a staff member can show you the cards available and help you request one on the spot.
What happens after your card arrives
When your Navy Federal credit card arrives, set up it before you use it. You can set up it online through your account, through their mobile app, or by calling the number on the back of the card. set up usually takes just a few minutes.
Once activated, you can use the card to make purchases. Your monthly statement will show all your transactions, the amount you owe, and the due date. Pay at least the minimum amount by the due date to avoid late fees and damage to your credit. Paying the full balance each month means you will not pay interest on your purchases.
Navy Federal reports your account activity to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — the three major credit bureaus. This means your on-time payments and account history will show up on your credit report and help build your credit score.
Comparing Navy Federal cards to other options
Navy Federal credit cards are one option if you are military-affiliated. Other credit unions and banks also offer cards to military members and the general public. Some cards may have higher rewards rates, lower APRs, or different benefits than Navy Federal's offerings.
When comparing cards, look at the APR range, annual fee, rewards rate, and any introductory offers. Think about how you will use the card — if you travel often, a card with travel benefits may be worth an annual fee. If you carry a balance, a card with a low APR matters more than rewards. If you pay in full each month, rewards and annual fees are the main factors.
You can hold more than one credit card, so you do not have to choose just one. Some people use a Navy Federal card for everyday spending and another card for a specific purpose like travel or balance transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be active duty to get a Navy Federal credit card?
No. Navy Federal membership is open to active-duty service members, retirees, veterans, Department of Defense civilians, and their families. Once you are a member, you can request a credit card. Your military status does not need to be active duty.
What is the APR on Navy Federal credit cards?
The APR varies by card and by your credit profile. Navy Federal shows an APR range for each card on their website. Your actual rate will fall within that range based on your credit score and history when you request the card. The card terms page will show the specific range for the card you are interested in.
Can I request a Navy Federal credit card if I have bad credit?
Navy Federal offers credit cards designed for people with limited or damaged credit history. These cards typically have a lower credit limit and a higher APR, but they report to the credit bureaus and can help you build your credit score. You can also request a secured card, which requires a cash deposit, if you are denied for an unsecured card.
How long does it take to get approved for a Navy Federal credit card?
Navy Federal usually makes a decision on your request within a few business days. If approved, your card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can set up it as soon as it arrives and start using it right away.
Can I use my Navy Federal credit card outside the United States?
Yes, Navy Federal credit cards work internationally. However, you may be charged a foreign transaction fee, which is usually a percentage of the purchase amount. Check your card terms to see the foreign transaction fee rate. Some Navy Federal cards have no foreign transaction fee, so compare before you request a card if you travel internationally.