Navy Federal credit cards are available only to members, and you start by opening a membership account
Navy Federal Credit Union does not issue credit cards to non-members. Before you can request a card, you must first become a member of the credit union itself. Membership is open to active-duty military, retirees, veterans, Department of Defense civilians, and their families — the exact rules depend on your military connection, so Navy Federal's membership page will tell you whether you may have access to.
Once you confirm membership may be able to access, you open a membership account (usually with a small deposit, often $25 or $100) either online, by phone at 1-888-842-6328, or at a branch. This membership account is separate from a credit card — it establishes your relationship with Navy Federal and gives you access to their products, including credit cards.
After membership is active, you can then request a credit card through that same account. Navy Federal will review your credit history and income at that point, but membership comes first.
Key Takeaways
- You must be a Navy Federal member before requesting any credit card; membership requires military affiliation or family connection to someone with military affiliation.
- Opening a membership account takes minutes online or by phone and typically requires a small deposit.
- Navy Federal reviews your credit report and income when you request a card, so a higher credit score and stable income improve your chances.
- Navy Federal offers several card types (rewards, cashback, secured cards for building credit), so the one you can get depends on your credit profile.
- You can check whether Navy Federal will consider your request before formally submitting by using their pre-approval tool on their website.
What Navy Federal looks at when you request a card
Navy Federal reviews your credit score, payment history, income, and existing debt when you submit a card request. They do not have a published minimum credit score, but members with scores in the 600s and above have better odds than those below 600. If your score is lower, a secured credit card (one backed by a cash deposit you hold at Navy Federal) may be your only option initially.
Navy Federal also looks at your debt-to-income ratio — how much you owe each month compared to how much you earn. If you carry high balances on other cards or loans, Navy Federal may decline your request or offer you a card with a lower credit limit. Paying down existing balances before you request a card can improve your chances.
Your employment history and income matter too. Navy Federal wants to see stable income, whether from a job, military retirement, or other regular source. If you recently changed jobs or have gaps in employment, mention your current income clearly when you request the card.
Using Navy Federal's pre-approval tool
Navy Federal offers a pre-approval tool on their website that shows you which cards you might be considered for without a hard credit inquiry. A hard inquiry can temporarily lower your credit score by a few points, so checking pre-approval first lets you see your options without that impact.
The pre-approval tool asks for basic information: your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. It then shows you cards Navy Federal thinks you have a reasonable chance with, based on a soft credit check. This is not a may provide, but it narrows down which cards are worth formally requesting.
If the pre-approval tool shows no cards, your credit profile may not match Navy Federal's current criteria. In that case, a secured card or a period of credit building (paying bills on time, lowering balances) may open more options later.
The formal request process and what happens next
Once you are a Navy Federal member and have checked pre-approval, you request a card by logging into your membership account online, calling 1-888-842-6328, or visiting a branch. You will provide your income, employment details, and confirm the card type you want.
Navy Federal then runs a hard credit inquiry and reviews your full process. This takes a few business days to a week. You will receive a decision by mail or email — approved, approved with a lower limit than you requested, or declined.
If approved, your card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You set up it by calling the number on the back or using the Navy Federal app, then you can use it when ready.
If declined, Navy Federal will tell you why (usually low credit score, high existing debt, or insufficient income). You can request reconsideration by phone, but the decision rarely changes without a significant change in your financial situation. A secured card or waiting 6 to 12 months while you build credit is often the next step.
Navy Federal card types and which one you might get
Navy Federal offers rewards cards (cashback on purchases), travel cards (points toward flights and hotels), and secured cards (backed by a deposit). Which one you can get depends on your credit score and history.
Rewards and travel cards typically go to members with credit scores of 700 or higher and clean payment history. If your score is lower or you have past late payments, Navy Federal may offer you a secured card instead. A secured card works the same way as a regular card, but you deposit money (usually $500 to $2,500) that serves as your credit limit. After 12 to 24 months of on-time payments, Navy Federal converts it to a regular card and returns your deposit.
If you are unsure which card type fits your situation, the pre-approval tool will show you the specific cards Navy Federal is considering for you.
What to do if Navy Federal declines your request
A decline does not mean you can never get a Navy Federal card. It means your current credit profile does not match their criteria right now. You have several options.
First, request a secured card if one was not offered. Secured cards have lower approval rates and help you build credit over time. After 12 to 24 months of on-time payments, you can convert to a regular card.
Second, spend 6 to 12 months improving your credit score before requesting again. Pay all bills on time, pay down existing balances to below 30% of your credit limits, and do not open new accounts. Then reapply.
Third, ask Navy Federal why you were declined. Call 1-888-842-6328 and ask for specifics — low score, high debt, insufficient income, or something else. Knowing the reason helps you decide whether to reapply soon or wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be active-duty military to join Navy Federal?
No. Navy Federal members include active-duty, retired, and veteran military personnel, Department of Defense civilians, and their when ready family members. Check Navy Federal's membership page to confirm your specific may be able to access, but the pool is broader than active-duty alone.
Can I request a credit card before I open a membership account?
No. You must open a Navy Federal membership account first, which requires a small deposit and proof of military affiliation. After membership is active, you can then request a credit card.
What is the difference between pre-approval and approval?
Pre-approval is a soft check showing which cards Navy Federal might consider you for — it does not lower your credit score. Approval is the formal decision after a hard credit inquiry. Pre-approval is a good first step to see your options without credit impact.
How long does it take to hear back after I request a card?
Navy Federal typically makes a decision within a few business days to one week. You will receive the decision by mail or email. If approved, the card itself arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
Can I request a different card type if Navy Federal declines my first choice?
Yes. If you are declined for a rewards card, ask about a secured card. Secured cards have higher approval rates and let you build credit over time. After 12 to 24 months of on-time payments, you can convert to a regular card.