Best credit union: navy? what's the difference?

[jesseh]

Hi all,

Let me start of my saying I know there have been many 'best credit union' threads on here, and I've read quite a few. 

I'm a member of a few cu's but I can't help but notice all the positive posts on Navy fcu around here. It seems to have a special reputation around here, and I'm not sure whether that's because of their limited eligibility, or really a difference in what they offer.

So my question: what's the real difference? 

Would you advise anyone to join Navy FCU?

My personal experience (andrews, state dept and pentagon fcu): sdfcu and andrews are limited due to their size, with not very professional customer service or online/mobile banking, and meh out-of-office-hours backup service. Penfed is great in service, but always requires much paperwork and offers no free checking.

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

They give people with subprime scores prime credit limits.

All banks, credit unions, lenders, brokers and investment firms are garbage to some degree or another.  If anyone says one is the "best" they probably work there or have family working there.

Don't put all your eggs in one basket or even 3 baskets.  There is no best, there is just "less garbage in this one situation than the other garbage companies."

[Anonymous]

Can the OP or anyone else clarify whether most people even can join Navy?

I remember that a back door opened last year that enabled people to bypass the clear intent of the CU to serve only people in the armed forces and their families.  Then at some point later it sounded to me like that loophole had been closed.

Is it still possible for people with no military background or relatives (etc.) to join?

[jesseh]

Nope, not possible as far As i know since the spring. However, many americans have a family member who has served, usaa only accepts parents, but navy accepts other family members (like grandparents) too i believe.

[EAJuggalo]

I just used my Grandfather's name and service to join last week.

[jesseh]

 Any other opinions?

[Sandman771]

What I like about NFCU is their customer service. It is like they are always happy to assist you in whatever you need to do. I have called them at 10PM on a weeknight and I have called them at 7AM on a Saturday as far as extremes are, and they were always prompt, polite, and helpful. 

[jesseh]

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@EAJuggalo wrote:

I just used my Grandfather's name and service to join last week.

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Can you explain this further,please? Is he a member, still with you or did you have to provide any documents?

Thanks

[EAJuggalo]

My Grandfather died 50 years ago.  I called up last Saturday with his name, branch of service and that's all they asked for.  I have his enlistment paperwork so I have his serial number if asked but as of yet they haven't asked.

[Anonymous]

I am a NFCU member I used my grandfathers Docs to get in and to a answer your question NFCU is better than the rest is because of the member mall. I can save up to 4-5% above and beyond the 1.5% standard cash back