Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of joining Navy Federal Credit Union?

Visit our Value of Membership and Offers and Discounts pages to learn more about the benefits of Navy Federal membership, including low fees and great rates to exclusive member perks and financial tools and products. 

What documents or information will I need for the application?

You'll need the following documents and information:

• Social Security number^{Footnote 1}
• Driver’s license or government ID^{Footnote 1}
• Current home address^{Footnote 1}
• Credit card or bank account and routing number to fund your account^{Footnote 2}

Note: You’ll need these for any joint owners you’d like to add. A Membership Savings Account with a $5 minimum balance is required to establish and maintain membership.

How long is the membership application process?

The application process typically takes 5 minutes. 

When will I receive my debit card?

If you open your checking account online or over the phone, we’ll mail your debit card to the address listed on your application within 1 business day. Actual delivery of the card depends on postal service in your area. You can also open a checking account in a branch and receive your debit card while you’re there.

I received my debit card. How do I activate it?

Activate your debit card by calling 1-888-842-6328 or by signing in to your account via digital banking.* Learn more about the features and functions of your new debit card.

How do I add funds to my savings account?

You can fund your savings account via digital banking, at a branch or ATM, by mailing a check or by calling us at 1-888-842-6328. Learn more about savings account options at Navy Federal.

Can I have more than one savings or checking account?

Yes. There’s no limit to the number of savings or checking accounts you can have.

How do I access my account?

Our digital banking tools give you quick, direct access to your funds. You can access your accounts and automate your finances using our mobile app or online banking to quickly and easily manage your money on the go. Explore these convenient features we offer:

• Never miss a payment with free, online Bill Pay.
• Easily transfer money to another member. If you're transferring money to non-members, Zelle®^{Footnote 3} makes it simple, too. 
• Quickly deposit checks into your account safely and securely with Mobile Deposit.

For more information, visit our mobile and online banking page.

How do I add a joint owner to my account?

To add a joint owner, you and the other person need to visit a branch together to validate their identity and start the enrollment process. If they’re not available, you can initially open your account as an individual and then request an application to add them later.

How many joint owners can I have on each savings or checking account?

You can have up to 3 joint owners on each of your savings or checking accounts.

Are joint owners considered members of Navy Federal?

No. A joint owner shares access to your account but isn't necessarily a member of Navy Federal. To become a member, you or one of your family or household members must have ties to the armed forces, DoD or National Guard.

What does joint ownership with survivorship mean?

Joint ownership with survivorship means that if one of the owners of the account dies, the surviving owner will inherit their share. 

Without survivorship, their share would pass to their estate or heirs, rather than to the surviving owner.