You need a military connection and a few documents to open a USAA checking account

USAA checking accounts are only open to current and former military members, their spouses, and their adult children. You cannot open an account without one of these military connections. If you have that connection, the process takes about 10 to 15 minutes online, and your account can be ready to use the same day.

USAA does not require a minimum deposit to open a checking account, and there are no monthly fees. You will need a valid government-issued ID, a Social Security number, and proof of your military status or family relationship to a service member.

Key Takeaways

  • USAA checking accounts require proof of military service or a direct family relationship to someone who served or is serving.
  • You can open an account entirely online using your phone or computer, and it takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
  • You will need a valid government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and documentation of your military connection before you start.
  • Your account can be active the same day you open it, and you can begin using your debit card and online banking immediately.

Verify your military connection before you begin

USAA will ask you to confirm your military status during the account opening process. If you are the service member, have your military ID or discharge papers ready. If you are a spouse, you will need to show your marriage certificate. If you are an adult child of a service member, you will need a birth certificate and proof of the parent's military service.

You can also call USAA at 1-800-531-USAA (8722) before you start the online process to confirm whether your military connection qualifies. This takes a few minutes and can save you from starting an application you cannot complete.

Gather your documents and start the online application

Have these items ready before you open your browser: a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or military ID), your Social Security number, and your military connection documentation. You will also need a phone number and email address.

Go to usaa.com and select "Open an Account" or "Checking" from the homepage. USAA will walk you through a series of questions about your personal information, military status, and the type of checking account you want. The process is designed to move quickly, and you can pause and return to it later if you need to find a document.

Complete identity verification and choose your account type

USAA uses an automated identity verification system that checks your information against public records. This usually takes a few seconds. If the system cannot verify you automatically, USAA may ask you to upload a photo of your ID or to answer security questions based on your credit history.

You will then choose between USAA's standard checking account and their interest-bearing checking account. The interest-bearing account pays a small amount of interest on your balance but may have different terms. Read the disclosures for each option before you choose, as the features and fees differ slightly.

Set up your debit card and online banking

Once your account is open, USAA will ask whether you want a physical debit card mailed to you or a digital card you can use immediately in your phone's wallet. If you choose the digital card, you can start making purchases the same day. The physical card arrives in 7 to 10 business days.

You will also set up online banking access and a PIN for your account. USAA offers a mobile app and a website where you can check your balance, transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks by taking a photo. Write down your username and PIN in a safe place, or use your phone's password manager to store them.

Fund your account and activate your card

You do not need to make an initial deposit to open the account, but you will need money in it before you can use your debit card. You can transfer money from another bank account, have your employer deposit your paycheck directly, or deposit a check using the mobile app.

If you ordered a physical debit card, activate it as soon as it arrives by calling the number on the back or using the mobile app. If you are using a digital card, it is active immediately. USAA will send you a welcome packet with your account number and routing number, which you can use to set up direct deposit or automatic bill payments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I do not have a military ID or discharge papers?

You can use other proof of service, such as a DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), a National Guard or Reserve card, or a Veterans Health Identification Card. If you are a spouse or child, bring the service member's military ID or discharge papers along with your marriage certificate or birth certificate.

Can I open a USAA checking account if I am retired from the military?

Yes. Retired military members are fully may be able to access to open USAA accounts. You will need your military ID or discharge papers to verify your service.

How long does it take to receive my physical debit card?

Physical debit cards arrive in 7 to 10 business days. You can use a digital card in your phone's wallet immediately while you wait for the physical card to arrive.

What happens if my military connection is not verified automatically?

USAA will ask you to upload a photo of your military ID or other proof of service. This usually takes a few hours to review, and you will receive an email confirming whether your account is approved.

Can I open a joint account with my spouse?

Yes. Both account holders must meet USAA's military membership requirements. You can add your spouse during the account opening process or after your account is open by calling USAA or using the mobile app.