Yes, you can open most USAA bank accounts entirely online

USAA lets you open a checking or savings account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and requires a valid government ID, your Social Security number, and proof of your military affiliation or family connection to someone with military service. You'll need an email address and a phone number where USAA can reach you.

Not every account type is available online. Money market accounts and some specialty products may require you to call USAA or complete additional steps after your initial application. The account opens immediately in most cases, though you won't be able to use it until you've verified your identity and set up login credentials.

Key Takeaways

  • USAA checking and savings accounts open online in 10 to 15 minutes using your ID, Social Security number, and proof of military affiliation.
  • You must be an active-duty service member, veteran, National Guard or Reserve member, or a family member of someone with military service to open an account.
  • Your account becomes usable once you verify your identity and create your online login, which usually happens the same day.
  • You can deposit money immediately using mobile check deposit or by transferring funds from another bank account.

What you need before you start

Gather these documents before opening your account. You'll need a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or military ID all work. USAA will ask you to photograph both sides or provide the number and issue date.

You'll also need your Social Security number and proof that you or a family member has military service. USAA accepts active-duty status, veteran discharge papers (DD Form 214), National Guard or Reserve membership, or a military dependent ID. If you're applying as a family member, USAA will verify the service member's information directly.

Have your email address and phone number ready. USAA sends account confirmation and security codes to both, so use contact information you check regularly.

The online account opening process

Start at USAA's website and select "Open an Account." You'll choose between checking, savings, or both. USAA will ask whether you're opening the account as an individual or joint account (with a spouse or partner). If you choose joint, both account holders must complete the process separately.

Enter your personal information: full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. USAA will ask about your military affiliation — select the option that matches your status. If you're a family member, you'll enter the service member's information so USAA can verify it.

Upload or photograph your ID. USAA's system will read the information automatically, but you can correct any errors. You'll then verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history. This step usually takes two to three minutes.

Review the account terms and sign electronically. USAA will show you the account agreement and fee schedule. Once you sign, your account opens immediately and you'll receive a confirmation email with your account number.

When your account is ready to use

Your account opens right away, but you can't transfer money or make purchases until you set up online banking. USAA will email you a temporary password. Log in to USAA's website or app, create a permanent password, and set up two-factor authentication (usually a code sent to your phone).

Once you're logged in, you can deposit money immediately using mobile check deposit — photograph the front and back of a check and submit it through the app. The funds typically appear in your account within one business day. You can also transfer money from another bank account using ACH transfer, which takes one to three business days.

Your debit card ships separately and arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can use your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit or pay bills online.

Who can open a USAA account online

USAA membership is limited to people with military service or their families. You can open an account if you are an active-duty service member in any branch, a veteran with a discharge that wasn't dishonorable, a National Guard or Reserve member, or a spouse or dependent of someone in any of those categories.

Adult children of service members or veterans can also open accounts, as can some former spouses depending on the length of the marriage and when the divorce occurred. USAA verifies military status through the Defense Enrollment may be able to access Reporting System (DEERS) or by reviewing your discharge papers.

If you're unsure whether you meet the requirements, USAA's website has a membership checker tool. You can also call USAA at 1-800-531-8722 to confirm before you start the online process.

What happens if your application doesn't go through

Most online applications complete without problems, but USAA may need additional information if your identity verification fails or if your military status can't be confirmed immediately. You'll receive an email explaining what's needed and how to provide it.

If your military status can't be verified online, USAA will ask you to mail or upload a copy of your DD Form 214 (discharge papers) or military ID. This step usually takes a few extra days but doesn't prevent you from opening the account.

If you can't complete the process online for any reason, you can call USAA to finish your application over the phone or visit a USAA Financial Center if one is near you. Phone applications take about 20 minutes.

Fees and account features

USAA checking accounts have no monthly maintenance fee and no minimum balance requirement. Savings accounts also have no monthly fee. USAA reimburses ATM fees charged by other banks, so you can use any ATM without paying out-of-pocket charges.

Both account types come with online banking, mobile app access, bill pay, and mobile check deposit at no extra cost. USAA doesn't charge overdraft fees on debit card transactions, though you can opt into overdraft protection if you want to cover overdrafts from a linked savings account.

Interest rates on savings accounts vary and change with the market. Check USAA's current rates on their website before opening, since rates are not may provide and may be lower than other online banks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open a USAA account online?

The application itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account opens immediately, but you won't be able to use it until you log in and set up your password, which takes another few minutes. You can start depositing money the same day.

Do I need a USAA account to get USAA insurance?

No. USAA's banking and insurance products are separate. You can have USAA insurance without a bank account, and you can open a bank account without buying insurance. Many members use both, but neither requires the other.

Can I open a joint account online with my spouse?

Yes. Both account holders must complete the online application separately using their own ID and Social Security number. USAA will link the accounts once both applications are approved. The process takes about 20 to 30 minutes total for both people.

What if I don't have a military ID or discharge papers?

USAA can verify your military status through the Defense Enrollment may be able to access Reporting System if you're active duty, in the National Guard, or in the Reserve. If that verification fails, you can upload a copy of your DD Form 214 or other military documentation. USAA accepts photos or scanned copies.

Can I open a USAA account if I'm outside the United States?

Yes, but you'll need a U.S. address on file. USAA can mail your debit card and statements to a U.S. address, and you can manage your account online from anywhere. Call USAA if you need help setting up an account while stationed overseas.