The spokesperson explained that members applying for purchase mortgages can begin the application process online through USAA.com, the mobile app, by phone or with a loan officer. For refinance applications, members must speak directly with a loan officer to complete the process.
The spokesperson verified that online prequalifications take a few minutes. By phone, the average is about 30 minutes. The prequalification letter is available through the member’s online account on the USAA website or mobile app. Borrowers can update the letter at any time, and it’s valid for 90 days.
After prequalification and selecting a property, the borrower enters the full application process. For purchases, borrowers may begin online, through the mobile app or with a loan officer to complete the application.
“Once the application is underway, borrowers are assigned a loan officer who serves as their main point of contact throughout the process,” the spokesperson said. “Once the loan officer receives the borrower’s intent to proceed, and the appraisal fee is collected, the file is assigned to a loan processor who handles gathering documentation for underwriting and guides the borrower’s loan through closing.”
A designated loan officer will also help manage the collection of required documents.
“Members can expect to submit items like income, asset and credit information to support underwriting,” the spokesperson explained. “Regular updates on the loan status are provided via phone, email and text. After closing, borrowers may also receive a survey to share feedback on the experience.”
The spokesperson confirmed that USAA doesn’t currently offer eClosings. Closing documents are signed in person at the title company.
The median time from application to funding a purchase loan at USAA was 36 days over the first eight months of 2025, while refinances averaged about 49 days, according to the spokesperson.