Can Anyone Become a Navy Federal Member?

Navy Federal Credit Union serves the military community and their families. This article clarifies the specific criteria for membership, outlining who qualifies and the process involved in becoming a member.

Membership Eligibility

Membership at Navy Federal Credit Union extends beyond active military personnel to a broad range of individuals connected to the armed forces and Department of Defense. All active duty members, reservists, veterans, retirees, and those in the Delayed Entry Program (DEP) or Officer Candidate/ROTC programs across all branches of the U.S. armed forces are eligible to join.

Eligibility also covers Department of Defense (DoD) civilians, including civilian employees, U.S. government employees assigned to DoD installations, and DoD contractors working at U.S. government installations. DoD civilian retirees and annuitants also qualify.

Immediate family members of eligible individuals can also join. This category includes spouses, parents, grandparents, siblings, children (including adopted and stepchildren), and grandchildren of any eligible service member or DoD employee. Once an individual becomes a member, their immediate family can then join through their membership.

Required Documentation for Application

Prospective members need to gather specific documents and information before applying. Each applicant must provide their Social Security Number, current home address, and a valid government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.

To verify eligibility, additional documentation is necessary depending on the qualifying category. Military personnel and veterans may need to provide a military ID, their DD Form 214, or other proof of service. Department of Defense civilians require a DoD civilian identification.

For family members applying through an eligible relative, proof of relationship is essential. This could involve providing the eligible member’s last name, their Navy Federal Access Number or the last four digits of their Social Security Number, and their date of birth, along with specifying the relationship. Additionally, a method to fund the initial membership savings account, such as a credit card or bank account with routing number, is required.

Applying for Membership

Once all necessary information and documents have been prepared, individuals can proceed with submitting their membership application to Navy Federal Credit Union. The credit union offers multiple convenient ways to apply, including online through their website, over the phone, or in person at one of their branches.

Applicants will provide information to verify their eligibility, whether through military service, DoD employment, or family connection. For family members, the application will prompt for details about the sponsoring eligible individual.

A mandatory step in establishing membership involves opening a Membership Savings Account with a minimum deposit of $5. This initial deposit is required to activate and maintain membership. After submission, Navy Federal Credit Union will verify the provided information. Upon approval, new members receive confirmation and can begin utilizing their benefits.