I qualify to join NFCU since I served, my son is serving and both my brother and father have served. I have read how great they are to deal with and the credit limit's they can offer plus that their customer service is excellent.
You can see my current scores below. I have a cap1 secured on it's way to me. Should I wait until my score increases? I don't want an inquiry unless I'm going to be approved.
Any advice?
I'm not a member of theirs, wish I was though. But from the boards I've learned they are a great CU to deal with. You may qualify now, but it would be marginal. My recommendation is to get that Cap1 card and garden it for 6 months. While you're doing that, clean what you can on your report. This will just put you in a better situation.
Good luck, and thank you and and your family for your service.
Shogun
July 2013 score: EQ FICO 819, TU08 778, EX "806 lender pull 07/26/2013
Goal Score: All Scores 760+, Newest goal 800+
Take the myFICO Fitness Challenge
Current scores after adding $81K in CLs and 2 new cars since July 2013
EQ:809 TU 777 EX 790 Now it's just garden time!
June 2017 update: All scores over 820, just pure gardening now.
Thanks Shogun,
I was thinking maybe I should do exactly as you replied.
You're very welcome!!
Very true guiness, but he would be eligible through his son.
July 2013 score: EQ FICO 819, TU08 778, EX "806 lender pull 07/26/2013
Goal Score: All Scores 760+, Newest goal 800+
Take the myFICO Fitness Challenge
Current scores after adding $81K in CLs and 2 new cars since July 2013
EQ:809 TU 777 EX 790 Now it's just garden time!
June 2017 update: All scores over 820, just pure gardening now.
No, none of us retired from the service.
My son is currently serving but is not a member.
Costs I think $5 to open a savings account for membership. Maybe you could gift him $5 for an account. 
July 2013 score: EQ FICO 819, TU08 778, EX "806 lender pull 07/26/2013
Goal Score: All Scores 760+, Newest goal 800+
Take the myFICO Fitness Challenge
Current scores after adding $81K in CLs and 2 new cars since July 2013
EQ:809 TU 777 EX 790 Now it's just garden time!
June 2017 update: All scores over 820, just pure gardening now.
I could do that. I take it he has to be a member first?
I'm going to visit him in October so I could mention it to him then if he needs to be a member also.
I read on another board that they will not deny you as long as your eligible. I wanted to open a checking/savings account and build a relationship before I apply for actual credit with them. I read that may help.
Using NFCU eligibility wizard
"Are you currently serving as an active duty or reservist personnel for the DoD, ..."
No
"Are you a family member of one of the above"
Yes
"Congratulations! You are eligible for membership with Navy Federal"