Armed Forces Bank

Armed Forces Bank (AFB) is a full-service financial institution with a legacy that dates back to 1907. Headquartered in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and owned by Dickinson Financial Corporation, AFB is committed to serving the unique needs of active-duty military members, veterans, Department of Defense (DoD) employees, and their families. With a network of branches located on military installations across the country, AFB provides accessible and personalized banking for those who serve.

A Bank Built Around the Military Community

AFB’s mission goes beyond standard banking—it strives to understand and support the financial lives of military families. Approximately 75% of AFB employees have military affiliations, helping the institution remain closely connected to the community it serves. This alignment with military life is evident in their service offerings, branch placement, and military-exclusive benefits.

Checking Accounts That Fit Military Lifestyles

Armed Forces Bank offers several checking account options tailored to military needs and personal preferences. For those seeking rewards and added protection, the Access Rewards Checking account includes features like identity theft monitoring, shopping discounts, and travel-related perks. A monthly fee applies to this account and is not waivable.

For customers looking for interest-earning options and more premium features, the Access Investment Checking account offers tiered interest rates and ATM fee reimbursements. Customers who maintain a high balance can waive the monthly service fee.

Additionally, AFB offers more straightforward options such as Access Freedom Checking, which has no monthly fees, no minimum balance requirement, and access to a large ATM network, making it ideal for those who want basic, reliable banking.

Savings Options That Grow With You

AFB’s savings products are designed to serve a broad range of goals—from short-term savings to long-term retirement planning. Their standard savings account pays interest and is easy to manage through online and mobile banking. Customers seeking higher yields can opt for money market accounts, which offer more competitive rates with larger balances.

For fixed returns and long-term commitments, AFB provides certificates of deposit (CDs) with a variety of terms. The bank also offers Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) to help customers plan for their future while taking advantage of tax benefits.

Students under the age of 23 can open a Student Savings Account, a simple and effective way for young people to begin managing their finances responsibly.

Credit Card Options for All Credit Profiles

Armed Forces Bank provides credit card options suited to both creditworthy individuals and those working to build or repair their credit. Their standard Visa credit card is an unsecured product with no annual fee and a credit limit of up to $10,000, targeting customers with a strong credit history.

For those new to credit or trying to rebuild, the Credit Builder Secured Visa card offers a valuable tool. It requires a refundable deposit between $300 and $3,000 and functions like a traditional credit card, helping customers improve their credit score over time while still having access to spending flexibility.

Personal Loans and Auto Financing

AFB also offers personal loans for a variety of needs, including emergency expenses, debt consolidation, or home improvements. These loans are unsecured and typically come with fixed interest rates and set repayment terms.

Auto loans are available for both new and used vehicles, with competitive interest rates that cater to military families who may need reliable transportation during PCS moves or deployments. For those with certificates of deposit, the bank also offers CD-secured loans, which use the CD as collateral in exchange for lower rates.

Mortgage Lending Tailored to Military Families

As a full-service lender, Armed Forces Bank provides a full spectrum of home loan products. Military members and veterans can take advantage of VA loans, which come with benefits like zero down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI). These loans are ideal for eligible borrowers who receive Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), which can often cover a significant portion—or even all—of their mortgage payment.

For those not using VA loan benefits, AFB also offers FHA loans with low down payment requirements and flexible credit standards. Traditional conventional loans are available as well, with competitive terms and down payments as low as 3% for qualified buyers.

One standout feature is AFB’s mortgage service guarantee. The bank commits to closing VA, FHA, and conventional loans on time, or they will pay the borrower $1,000—an added layer of assurance that highlights their focus on timely service.

Digital Banking Experience

AFB has invested in technology to support the needs of a mobile military population. Its online banking platform allows customers to pay bills, transfer funds, and review transactions securely from any location. The mobile banking app includes the ability to deposit checks remotely, monitor balances, and receive account alerts.

The bank also offers Zelle® integration for quick peer-to-peer transfers, making it easy to send and receive money from trusted friends and family with an eligible bank account.

Military-Specific Services

One of Armed Forces Bank’s most appreciated features is its early pay benefit. Servicemembers who receive their pay through the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) can access their paycheck one business day early. This can provide a financial cushion for those managing tight budgets or unexpected expenses.

AFB also provides Recruit Access Accounts specifically designed for new military recruits. These accounts offer no-minimum balance checking, free overdraft protection transfers, and streamlined setup. Recruiters can even fax or email applications and receive confirmation in minutes. Debit cards and starter checks are shipped overnight for recruits who are quickly heading to basic training or new assignments.

Branches located on military installations further underscore AFB’s commitment to accessibility and convenience for service members and their families.

What Customers Are Saying

Customer reviews of Armed Forces Bank are mixed, but generally reflect a loyal military clientele. Positive reviews frequently highlight the bank’s understanding of military pay cycles, accommodating staff, and ability to work with servicemembers through major life transitions.

On the other hand, some customers have expressed frustrations with customer service delays and technical issues. As with any bank, individual experiences vary, and potential customers should carefully review fees, terms, and customer support options before opening an account.

Final Thoughts

Armed Forces Bank stands out as a military-focused financial institution that offers a robust array of products and services. From basic checking to home loans and retirement planning, AFB provides tailored support for every stage of military life. Their physical presence on installations, digital tools, and understanding of military benefits make them a solid option for servicemembers and veterans alike.

While prospective customers should compare rates and features with other banks, AFB’s military-first approach, early pay feature, and mortgage guarantee make it a compelling choice for many in the defense community.