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Joining the military

There's no greater honor than serving your country, but it can be a big decision. These resources can help guide you through the process.

Are you thinking about joining the military?

Whether you're considering enlisting, joining as an officer, or going into the Reserves, there's a lot more to it than just signing a contract and heading to boot camp. Creating a personalized timeline can help you become mission-ready no matter what branch of service you choose.

Create your timeline

The basics of starting a military career

Joining the U.S. Armed Forces is a big decision. Are you ready for military life? These articles can help prepare you for a fulfilling career serving your country.

  1. How to join the military
  2. Joining the military as enlisted
  3. Joining the military as an officer
  4. What you should know about joining the National Guard
  5. Top 10 things to do when starting your military career
Browse additional articles

Top related products, discounts and add-ons

Checking accounts for service members

Consider a checking account that's secure with features important to you. As a service member, you'll need access to manage your finances regardless of where you're stationed.

Learn more About checking accounts for service members

Read about the advantages of having a checking account

Military renters insurance

Whether you're in the barracks or renting off base, stateside or overseas, you'll need personal property coverage that meets the needs of military life.

Learn more About military renters insurance

Why you need renters insurance, especially in the military

Electronics protection

Adding coverage for your electronics to your insurance policy can help you save money on repairs or replacements in the case of accidents, loss, drops or spills.

Learn more About electronics protection

How can you protect your electronics?

Vehicle storage savings

If you can't use your car during your time in service, whether due to PCS, TDY or deployment, check how you can save on your auto insurance.

Learn more About vehicle storage savings

Read about storing your vehicle while on duty

Benefits of USAA membership

You're committing to serve our country, and we're committed to serving you. USAA offers exclusive benefits and discounts for military members and their eligible family.

Learn more About benefits of USAA membership

Read how to get the best military discounts

USAA member benefits for the military

We understand the demands of military life, which is why we've created benefits, products and discounts for you and your eligible family members. Membership is free and you aren't required to own a product.

Become a member

Why choose USAA?

Tools and resources

Tools

  • Financial Readiness Assessment
  • Military Pay Calculator
  • Deployment Pay Calculator
  • Life Insurance Calculator

Perks and discounts

  • Moving and Storage
    (Opens new window)
  • Car Rental Discounts
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  • Gym Memberships (Opens new window)
  • USAA Perks® (Opens new window)

Military support

  • Military OneSource‍ ‍ See note 1 (Opens new window)
  • Military.com‍ ‍ See note 1 (Opens new window)
  • USMEPCOM (Recruiters)‍ ‍ See note 1 (Opens new window)
  • Today's Military (An overview oflife in the military)‍ ‍ See note 1 (Opens new window)

Related articles

Browse all military life articles

8 money moves to make in your first few years of military service

Article: 3 minutes

Read article: 8 money moves to make in your first few years of military service

Protect yourself: Avoid military scams

Article: 11 minutes

Read article: Protect yourself: Avoid military scams

Should I get a loan when I begin my career as a military officer?

Article: 7 minutes

Read article: Should I get a loan when I begin my career as a military officer?

Need help with something else?

Related topics

  • Deployment
  • Permanent Change of Station
  • Leaving the Military
  • Military Spouses
  • Loss of a Loved One

Additional products

  • Savings Accounts
  • Credit Cards
  • Life Insurance
  • Overseas Insurance

Additional topics

  • Auto
  • Home
  • Finances
  • Life and Health
  • Family
  • Retirement

Related footnotes:

  1. You are leaving USAA and being directed to a third party site that is not maintained, owned or operated by USAA. USAA does not control and is not responsible for the site content or the privacy or security practices of third parties. You should read the third party's privacy and security policies and site terms, as their practices may differ from those of USAA.

Related footnotes:

  1. Use of the term "member" or "membership" refers to membership in USAA Membership Services and does not convey any legal or ownership rights in USAA. Restrictions apply and are subject to change. To join USAA, separated military personnel must have received a discharge type of Honorable or General Under Honorable Conditions. Eligible family members may also join USAA.

  2. USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its affiliates.

  3. No Department of Defense or government agency endorsement.

  4. The information contained is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to represent any endorsement, expressed or implied, by USAA or any affiliates.

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