Membership in the SUVCW is open to male descendants  of soldiers, sailors, or marines who were mustered into Federal service and served honorably in, were honorably discharged from, or died in the service of the Union Army or Navy during the Civil War from 1861-1865. Applicants for membership must be at least 14 years of age and must not have been convicted of any felony crime.

In addition, the applicant and his ancestor(s), through which eligibility is claimed, must not have ever borne arms against the U.S. Government.

Male descendants, ages 6-14, may join as Juniors with the same stipulations stated above