Loading organizations...
USAA operates as a diversified financial services entity, primarily offering a comprehensive suite of insurance and banking products. The company provides auto, home, life, and health insurance, alongside banking services including checking, savings, credit cards, and various loan and mortgage options. It also extends into retirement and investment planning, leveraging advanced analytics and artificial intelligence to enhance claims processing and member experience, moving from analog to digital solutions.
The organization was established on June 20, 1922, by a collective of 25 U.S. Army officers in San Antonio, Texas. This group formed the United Services Automobile Association out of necessity, as military personnel faced challenges securing auto insurance due to perceived higher risk. Their initial insight was to pool resources for mutual self-insurance, addressing an unmet need within their community.
USAA exclusively serves military members, veterans, and their eligible families. Its overarching mission is to empower these members to achieve financial security. The company maintains a long-term, member-focused vision, emphasizing exceptional service and financial strength to continue supporting those who have served the nation.
Key people at USAA.
USAA was founded in 1922 by San Antonio (Founder).
Key people at USAA.
USAA (United Services Automobile Association) is a leading financial services institution dedicated exclusively to serving military members, veterans, and their families. Founded in 1922, USAA provides a broad range of insurance, banking, and investment products designed to meet the unique financial needs of its military-affiliated membership. Its mission is to empower members to achieve financial security through competitive products, exceptional service, and trusted advice, focusing on long-term relationships rather than short-term profits. USAA's investment philosophy emphasizes operational efficiency and financial strength to sustainably serve its growing membership, which exceeds 13 million. The firm primarily operates in insurance (auto, life, property), banking, asset management, and retirement services, significantly impacting the military community by offering tailored financial solutions and support[1][2][3][7].
USAA was founded in 1922 by 25 U.S. Army officers in San Antonio, Texas, who were unable to obtain auto insurance due to the perceived risks of military life. This led to the creation of a reciprocal interinsurance exchange where members insured each other. The organization expanded membership to Navy and Marine officers in 1924 and has since grown into a diversified financial services company with over 75 subsidiaries. Key leadership milestones include Robert F. McDermott, a WWII fighter pilot and Harvard MBA, who became CEO in 1968 and helped broaden USAA’s offerings. The company has evolved from mail-based service to phone and internet-based direct marketing, pioneering customer service in the insurance sector. USAA's commitment to its members was notably demonstrated during Operation Desert Storm when it honored claims without invoking war clauses[1][3][9].
USAA rides the trend of digital transformation in financial services, leveraging technology to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. Its timing is critical as military members increasingly expect seamless, tech-enabled financial products that accommodate frequent relocations and deployments. Market forces such as growing military populations, rising demand for personalized financial services, and the shift to direct-to-consumer models favor USAA’s approach. By focusing on a niche yet substantial market segment, USAA influences the broader ecosystem by setting high standards for customer-centric service and innovation in insurance and banking tailored to unique customer needs[2][3].
Looking ahead, USAA is poised to deepen its digital capabilities and expand its product offerings to better serve a diverse and evolving military community. Trends such as increased reliance on mobile banking, AI-driven customer service, and personalized financial planning will shape its journey. USAA’s influence may grow as it continues to blend its century-old mission with modern technology, potentially serving as a model for member-focused financial institutions. Its commitment to operational excellence and member empowerment suggests sustained growth and leadership in the military financial services niche[2][4][7].
USAA has 16 tracked investments across 14 companies. The latest tracked deal is $10.0M Series A in Tidal Cyber in September 2025.
USAA was founded in 1922 by San Antonio (Founder).
