When it comes to financial services, USAA (United Services Automobile Association) is a trusted name, especially for military families and veterans. Since its inception, USAA has been committed to providing affordable, accessible financial products and services to its members. Among their offerings, USAA credit cards stand out as one of the most popular and reliable options for consumers looking for credit cards with great benefits, security, and rewards.
If you’re considering applying for a USAA credit card in 2024 or 2025, or simply looking to learn more about them, this guide covers everything you need to know—from types of USAA credit cards available to benefits, rewards, and how to apply.
What is USAA?
USAA is a financial services group that primarily serves military members and their families. Founded in 1922, it provides a variety of financial products, including insurance, banking, and investment services. The credit card offerings from USAA are tailored to meet the needs of its members, offering unique benefits and rewards programs not found with other credit card providers.
Types of USAA Credit Cards
USAA offers several types of credit cards designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for cashback, travel rewards, or a low-interest rate card, USAA has you covered. Let’s break down some of the most popular USAA credit cards available for 2024 and 2025.
1. USAA® Cashback Rewards Plus American Express® Card
For those looking for straightforward cashback rewards, the USAA Cashback Rewards Plus Card is a great choice. This card offers:
- 1.5% cashback on everyday purchases like groceries and gas
- 5% cashback on the first $3,000 spent on gas and military purchases each year
- No annual fee
- Introductory 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 months
This card is perfect for those who want to earn rewards on everyday spending, while also benefiting from a low-cost structure with no annual fee.
2. USAA® Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Card
The USAA Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature Card is another excellent option for cashback enthusiasts. This card offers:
- 1.5% cashback on every purchase, with no categories to track
- No annual fee
- 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 12 months
- Visa Signature benefits, including travel and purchase protections
With this card, you can enjoy simple and straightforward rewards on every purchase, without having to worry about rotating categories or restrictions.
3. USAA® Rewards™ American Express® Card
For individuals who prefer earning points instead of cashback, the USAA Rewards American Express Card provides a flexible rewards program. This card offers:
- 2x points on dining and eligible grocery store purchases
- 1x points on all other purchases
- No annual fee
- 0% intro APR on purchases for the first 12 months
You can redeem your points for cash back, gift cards, or travel through the USAA Rewards program, making this a great card for those who prefer accumulating points.
4. USAA® World MasterCard® Credit Card
For those who want the premium benefits of a World MasterCard, the USAA World MasterCard Credit Card is an excellent choice. Benefits include:
- 3x points on travel and dining
- 1x point on all other purchases
- Travel insurance and emergency assistance
- No annual fee
- 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months
This card is ideal for frequent travelers and diners, as it rewards those categories with generous points. Additionally, its travel protections make it a reliable option for those on the go.
Key Benefits of USAA Credit Cards
USAA credit cards come with a variety of features that set them apart from other credit cards on the market. Here are some of the most significant benefits that come with owning a USAA credit card.
1. Military-Friendly Features
One of the standout benefits of USAA credit cards is their military-specific advantages. As USAA primarily serves military families, many of its credit cards offer special perks such as:
- Lower interest rates for active-duty military members
- Fee waivers for late payments or over-limit charges
- Special protections during deployment, including interest rate reductions
This makes USAA credit cards a fantastic option for active-duty service members and veterans, as they offer financial relief during difficult times.
2. Reward Opportunities
Whether you’re looking for cashback or points, USAA credit cards offer competitive rewards on various categories. For example, the USAA Cashback Rewards Plus Card and the USAA Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature Card are perfect for earning cashback on everyday purchases like gas, groceries, and dining. On the other hand, the USAA Rewards American Express Card offers an excellent rewards program for those who prefer points over cashback.
3. No Annual Fees
Many of the USAA credit cards, including the USAA Rewards American Express Card and USAA Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature Card, come with no annual fee. This makes these cards even more attractive for individuals looking to minimize their credit card costs.
4. 0% Introductory APR Offers
USAA offers several credit cards with 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 months. This is ideal for those who want to make large purchases or transfer existing debt without paying interest for a year.
5. Comprehensive Security Features
USAA credit cards come with top-notch fraud protection and security features, including:
- Zero fraud liability, meaning you’re not responsible for unauthorized purchases
- 24/7 customer support
- Mobile app alerts for suspicious transactions
These features give you peace of mind while using your card for everyday purchases or during travel.
How to Apply for a USAA Credit Card
Applying for a USAA credit card is straightforward and can be done entirely online. Here’s how you can get started:
- Check Your Eligibility: USAA credit cards are primarily available to military families, including active-duty members, veterans, and their immediate family members. You’ll need to create a USAA account if you don’t have one already.
- Choose the Right Card: Decide which USAA credit card best suits your needs, based on your spending habits and the rewards or benefits you’re interested in.
- Fill Out the Application: Complete the online application form, which will ask for your personal information, including your income and military status (if applicable).
- Wait for Approval: USAA will review your application and notify you of their decision, typically within a few minutes. If approved, you’ll receive your card in the mail within 7–10 business days.
Conclusion: Is a USAA Credit Card Right for You?
USAA credit cards are a great option for military families, veterans, and anyone looking for a credit card with competitive rewards, low fees, and excellent customer service. With cards tailored to a variety of needs—from cashback to travel rewards and low-interest options—USAA offers something for everyone.
In 2024 and 2025, the benefits of choosing a USAA credit card remain clear: from military-specific perks and zero annual fees to reward programs and fraud protection. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a casual shopper, or someone who wants to keep things simple, there’s likely a USAA credit card that fits your lifestyle.
If you’re a member of the military or have a family member who is, a USAA credit card could be the perfect addition to your wallet. Take the time to explore their options and apply for the card that best suits your financial goals.