Military service comes with sacrifices -- but it also comes with unique financial benefits that most civilians never get access to. One of the most powerful (and often overlooked) is how the right credit card can unlock waived fees, premium travel perks, and rewards that cost others hundreds of dollars a year.
Thanks to protections like the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and the Military Lending Act (MLA), U.S. service members can qualify for incredible credit card benefits -- often at no cost. Let's break down the top credit cards for military members in 2025, how they work, and which one might be the best fit for your financial mission.
Why Credit Cards Are Different for Military Members?
Two federal laws make a huge difference when it comes to credit cards:
- SCRA (Servicemembers Civil Relief Act): Caps interest rates at 6% on existing debt and often waives annual fees for premium cards -- the last one being the largest plus for Credit Cards
- MLA (Military Lending Act): Provides protections on newer accounts, including fee limits and stronger terms.
Together, these protections mean that service members can access some of the most elite credit cards in the world -- without paying the steep annual fees that civilians do. For many, this can be the difference between flying coach and enjoying airport lounges with free upgrades.
American Express Platinum Card
Best for: Service members with frequent PCS moves, TDYs, Deployments, or those who travel often on Leave.
The travel perks make long trips less stressful, and the waived fees make this card a no-brainer for many officers and enlisted personnel alike.
Annual Fee Waived: $695 (potential increase in Fall 2025)
Benefits: Global Airport Lounge Access, Hotel Upgrades, Uber and Airline Credits, and Concierge Service.
Chase Sapphire Reserve
Best for: Service members who travel for PCS moves, vacations, or deployments.
Flexible rewards let you book flights home or cover hotels during unexpected military travel. Keep in mind: This used to be my #1, but decreases in Priority Pass and increasing fees in 2025 (up to $795) make it not favorable to AmEx.
Annual Fee Waived: $550 ($795 in Oct 2025)
Benefits: High travel reward multipliers, flexible points transfers to airlines and hotels, Priority Pass lounge access
American Express Gold Card
Best for: Military families who spend a lot on commissary runs, dining out, or feeding their kids during moves.
Every day you spend earns valuable points without cost.
Annual Fee Waived: $250
Benefits: 4x points on dining and groceries, credits for food delivery and travel (not as good a platinum).
USAA & Navy Federal Credit Union Cards
Best for: Service members with frequent PCS moves, TDYs, Deployments, or those who travel often on Leave.
Great entry-level cards to build credit before graduating to premium AMEX or Chase products.
Annual Fee Waived: Very low to non-existent
Benefits: Simpler reward structures, lower APRs, easier approval for younger service members.
Cashback Options (Discover It, Citi Double Cash, etc.)
Best for: Service members who want no-frills rewards without managing points
Reliable, easy-to-use, and pairs well with premium military-fee-waived cards for more everyday purchases.
Annual Fee Waived: Very low to non-existent
Benefits: Simple cashback -- 1.5% to 2% on everyday purchases
How to Choose the Right Card
Not every card fits every lifestyle. Here's a quick guide:
- Young Enlisted/Just Starting Credit History: USAA or Navy Federal cards (Easier Approval, solid protection)
- Frequest Traveler / Officer: AMEX Platinum or Chase Sapphire for Premium Perks
- Family Focused: AMEX Gold for dining and Groceries
- Everyday Spender: Citi Double Cash or Discover It for reliable cashback
Also, keep in mind that, as long as you are responsible with your credit card usage, having more than one credit card with rewards/points tailored to a specific goal (such as travel, groceries, or gas) is a solid strategy for accumulating points and/or cash back. However, do not go overboard.
Pitfalls to Avoid
- Don't overspend: just because the annual fee is waived. Rewards only matter if you pay off your balance
- Avoid carrying balances: SCRA protections help on existing debts when you get into the service, not during -- high APR credit card debt is the largest wealth killer
- Don't close cards too quickly: this can hurt your credit score.
Final Thoughts
Credit cards, when used responsibly, can be one of the biggest financial advantages available to U.S. military members. With waived annual fees, travel perks, and cashback rewards, you can save thousands of dollars a year while building credit and setting yourself up for life beyond the uniform.
At GI Wealth, we believe in leveraging the unique opportunities of military life to create financial freedom. The right credit card is just one tool in your arsenal.
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