USAA Mortgage Review 2026

USAA overview

Founded in 1922, USAA is a full-service bank that specializes in financial products, including mortgages, for current and former members of the military and their family members. USAA was the eleventh-largest VA lender by volume in 2024. USAA has a few branch offices, and most loans are originated via phone or online. If you qualify, you can get prequalified (but not completely preapproved) online in just a few minutes.

Pros and cons of USAA

How Bankrate scored USAA

Affordability: 4.2 stars

USAA’s mortgage interest rates often run lower than Bankrate and national averages, and the bank covers some loan fees, too. That brings its affordability score to 4.2 out of 5 stars.

• Interest rates: USAA’s rates tend to be competitive compared to the national average.
• Down payment: Most of USAA’s VA loans have no down payment requirement. For a conventional loan, the down payment could be as low as 3%.
• Closing costs: USAA’s closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price, according to the bank’s website. 
• Fees: USAA doesn’t charge origination fees on some VA loans.

Availability: 4.9 stars

USAA offers mortgages to eligible service members and veterans throughout the U.S. It scores 4.9 out of 5 stars for availability.

• Home loans offered: USAA works with service members and veterans nationwide, with a focus on VA loans (both conforming and nonconforming), although it does offer conventional mortgages as well. 
• Footprint: USAA’s VA mortgages are available in all 50 states; conventional loans are available in all states except Hawaii. 
• Where to find: You can apply for a mortgage with USAA online or by phone.

Borrower experience: 3.7 stars

USAA scores 3.7 out of 5 stars for borrower experience. The bank offers less mortgage rate transparency than other lenders, and it can be challenging to speak with a customer service rep unless you have your military ID handy.

• Preapproval and application process: USAA allows you to start the mortgage application process online via its website. Conveniently, you can save your application progress, then return if needed.
• Transparency: USAA doesn’t display current mortgage rates on its website beyond a single promotional rate. You’ll need to contact a loan officer directly to learn your individual rate.
• Customer service: A chat option is available for simple questions, or you can reach USAA’s customer service team at 800-531-0341, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. 

USAA reputation

USAA isn’t accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and garnered an average 1.16 out of 5 stars from customers there at the time of this review. It also has a “bad” rating on Trustpilot.