The GO REWARDS® Credit Card, offered by Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU), is designed to reward your everyday spending while providing competitive rates and benefits tailored for military members and their families. If you’re looking for a reliable credit card with a strong rewards program and low fees, the GO REWARDS® card is worth serious consideration.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key features, benefits, fees, and the process of applying for the GO REWARDS® Credit Card.

What is the GO REWARDS® Credit Card?

The GO REWARDS® Credit Card is a rewards-based credit card issued by Navy Federal Credit Union. It caters to individuals who want to earn points on their purchases without worrying about high interest rates or annual fees. The card is particularly attractive for those who frequently spend on restaurants and gas stations, as these categories earn higher rewards.

Key Features:

• No Annual Fee
  There is no annual fee, making it an excellent choice for cost-conscious consumers.
• Reward Points on Purchases
  Earn:
  • 3X points at restaurants
  • 2X points on gas
  • 1X point on all other purchases
• Introductory APR Offer
  The card often includes an introductory 0% APR on balance transfers for the first 12 months (this may vary and should be verified at the time of application).
• Low Regular APR
  Ongoing APRs range from approximately 11.24% to 18.00%, based on creditworthiness.
• Contactless Technology
  The card supports contactless payments, making transactions faster and more secure.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees
  Ideal for those who travel or make international purchases.
• Credit Limit Flexibility
  Credit limits are based on the applicant’s creditworthiness and financial profile.

Reward Redemption Options

Points earned with the GO REWARDS® Credit Card can be redeemed through Navy Federal’s rewards portal. Redemption options include:

• Travel (airfare, hotels, car rentals)
• Gift cards
• Merchandise
• Cashback
• Charitable donations

There are no blackout dates for travel rewards, and point values typically range from $0.01 per point, depending on the redemption type.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High rewards on dining and gas
• No annual fee or foreign transaction fees
• Low APR compared to many other rewards cards
• Contactless and chip-enabled for secure purchases
• Points don’t expire as long as the account is open and in good standing

Cons:

• Requires membership in Navy Federal Credit Union
• Limited bonus categories compared to some premium cards
• No large welcome bonus like some competing cards

Who Can Apply?

To apply for the GO REWARDS® Credit Card, you must be a member of Navy Federal Credit Union. NFCU membership is generally open to:

• Active duty, retired, or veteran members of the military (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard)
• Department of Defense civilian employees
• Family members of current members (including spouses, siblings, children, and grandparents)

Once you’re a member of the credit union, you can apply for the card online, by phone, or at a Navy Federal branch.

How to Apply for the GO REWARDS® Credit Card

Applying for the GO REWARDS® Credit Card is straightforward, provided you’re eligible for NFCU membership. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Become a Navy Federal Member

If you’re not yet a member, you’ll need to join Navy Federal Credit Union first. You can do this by:

1. Visiting the official Navy Federal website: www.navyfederal.org
2. Clicking on “Become a Member”
3. Providing eligibility details (military affiliation, employment, or family ties)
4. Opening a basic savings account with a minimum $5 deposit to activate your membership

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Before applying, have the following ready:

• Social Security number
• Government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport)
• Employment and income details
• Contact information

Step 3: Submit the Credit Card Application

You can apply in one of three ways:

• Online through your Navy Federal account portal
• By phone at 1-888-842-6328
• In person at a Navy Federal branch location

You’ll need to choose the GO REWARDS® Credit Card during the application process and provide information related to your income and financial status.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

Approval can be immediate or take a few business days, depending on the complexity of your financial profile. If approved, your card will be mailed to you within 7–10 business days.

Tips for Maximizing Your GO REWARDS® Card

To get the most value from your GO REWARDS® Credit Card:

• Use the card regularly for dining and gas purchases
• Pay off your balance monthly to avoid interest charges
• Monitor special promotions or limited-time bonus categories
• Use the Navy Federal mobile app to track your rewards and spending
• Redeem points strategically (travel redemptions typically offer the best value)

Final Thoughts

The GO REWARDS® Credit Card is a solid option for those who want a no-annual-fee rewards card with competitive benefits, particularly in the restaurant and gas categories. While it may not come with a flashy welcome bonus, its ongoing rewards structure and lack of hidden fees make it a strong choice—especially for military families and those eligible for Navy Federal Credit Union membership.

If you’re eligible to join NFCU, applying for the GO REWARDS® Credit Card is a smart way to earn rewards on your everyday purchases while enjoying the backing of one of the most trusted credit unions in the U.S.