How to Activate a USAA Debit Card

You can activate a USAA debit card.
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Members of the USAA can get a USAA debit card for simple transactions online and in stores. If you have a USAA debit card already and aren't sure how to use it, fear not. The process of card activation is very simple, and you can get up and running with your new card in no time.

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How to Activate a USAA Debit Card Online

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The simplest way to get started with your new USAA card is to activate it online, USAA explains. Simply go to the USAA website at usaa.com/activate and log in to your USAA account. If you are not a member, you won't be able to proceed.

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Assuming you are a member, you can move forward. Once you're logged in, click the "Debit Cards" link and then select the card you want to activate from the list of options. Click the "Activate Card" button and follow the instructions on the screen. If you need any assistance, you can contact USAA customer service for help.

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Once your USAA debit card is activated, you can start using it right away. There are no special terms or conditions to be aware of; you can just use your card like you would any other debit card. You may use it anywhere that accepts Visa credit cards or debit cards, and you can also use it to make purchases online or over the phone.

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What Is a USAA Debit Card?

A USAA debit card is a Visa that is linked to your USAA checking account, USAA explains. In addition to buying things as you would with any other card, you can also use your USAA debit card to withdraw cash from ATMs or pay bills. It has the same functionality as any other debit card. Since it is not a credit card, you won't need to apply using a credit score as you would for a credit card online application.

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When you use your USAA debit card, the funds for your purchase are debited directly from your USAA checking account. There is no credit line associated with a USAA debit card as you would have with a credit card. You can only spend what you have in your account. For this reason, USAA debit cards and other cards in this category are sometimes called "check cards."

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To get a USAA debit card, you must be a USAA member. If this applies to you, simply open a USAA checking account and request a debit card. USAA does not charge any fees for debit cards, and there is no credit check required. Your USAA debit card will be mailed to you within a few days after your account is opened, and then you can proceed with USAA card activation.

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Benefits of a USAA Debit Card

There are many benefits of using a USAA debit card as compared to other credit and debit cards, like those from banks and issuers like Bank of America, Citibank and Capital One. These benefits include:

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  • No credit check required
  • No fees
  • Easy to use
  • Access to your funds 24/7
  • Accepted anywhere that accepts Visa
  • Allows you to manage your finances with an online account and easily make purchases

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How to Access USAA Account Information

If you need to check your USAA account balance or view recent transactions, you can do so online or through the USAA mobile app. Simply log in to your account and click on the "Accounts" tab. From there, you'll be able to view all of your account information. You can also call USAA customer service via its phone number at any time to get information about your account.

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Be sure to have your card number handy when you call. You may also need the last four digits of your Social Security number in order to speak to representatives from USAA bank when you call.

Who Can Get a USAA Debit Card?

Any USAA member can get a USAA debit card. USAA membership is open to active duty military, veterans and their families. To join USAA, simply visit the USAA website at usaa.com and click on the "Join USAA" button. You'll need to provide some basic information about yourself as well as your military service history. It usually takes a few days to get approved for USAA membership.

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Once your membership is set up, you can open a USAA checking account and request a debit card. Your USAA debit card will be mailed to you within a few business days after your account is opened.

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