Category: Costco

Ever found yourself with a Costco membership but as life changed, you are now wondering how to cancel Costco membership simply because those bulk purchases are no longer on the agenda?

Well, fear not; because canceling your Costco membership isn’t an intricate maze; it’s as straightforward as grabbing your phone or making a quick stop at the nearest warehouse.

We’ll show you the easy steps to cancel your Costco membership and share important things you should know concerning Costco membership.

How to Cancel Costco Membership Online

Before you cancel your Costco membership, you’ll need the Costco Membership Card and a Valid form of Identification.

There are two methods to cancel your Costco membership and they are;

1. Visiting Costco to Cancel Your Membership

(i). If you want to stop your Costco membership, you’ll need your membership card. Only the main member can cancel it, so if it’s not you, get them to do it. If you’ve lost your card, Costco can still help if you know your phone number, address, or birthdate.

(ii). For security, Costco needs to check who you are before canceling. Bring your driver’s license, passport, or state ID.

(iii). You can cancel at any Costco, not just where you signed up. Find the nearest one using Costco’s location tool.

(iv). Show your card to enter, or tell the door employee you lost it and need to cancel. They’ll guide you to the membership counter.

(v). At the counter, show your ID and card. If you lost the card, they might ask questions to verify. They should refund your whole annual fee, even if you used the membership for most of the year.

2. Canceling Your Membership Over the Phone

(i). Find your Costco card and note the number on it. Be ready to share it and your details like address and phone number.

(ii). Call Costco at 1-800-774-2678. You’ll hear a recorded message. Look for the option about “Membership” and choose it.

(iii). Select the “Cancellation” option. Follow the instructions to enter your 12-digit card number and answer some identity questions.

(iv). Ask for confirmation. If using the automated system, it might ask for your address or email to send confirmation. If talking to a person, request confirmation and check they have your correct contact info.

(v). Your full annual fee will be refunded.

If you’re not using your Costco membership or if you’re moving to a smaller place without space for bulk shopping, it might be a good idea to cancel it.

Also, if the nearest Costco is too far, the membership might not be very useful.

Can I Keep My Costco Card After Canceling my Membership?

If you decide to cancel your Costco membership, be aware that you’ll lose the Costco credit card too.

One popular option is the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi, which gives cashback on purchases at Costco and elsewhere.

The rewards are good, and there’s no extra fee for the card, but you must be a Costco member. If you cancel your membership, your card and rewards go away.

Keep in mind that closing the card might affect your credit score, as the length of your credit history and available credit impact it.

So, consider this before canceling, especially if you have a Costco Citi card.

At Costco, you get good stuff at cheap prices. Having a membership is great for buying lots of things in one go, and you get cool discounts and rewards.

What are the Benefits of Costco Membership?

There are lots of benefits of Costco Membership and some of them are;

1. Price Adjustments: If something you bought goes on sale, they might adjust the price for you.

2. Purchase Records: They keep track of all your purchases, handy if you need a refund or price adjustment.

3. Costco Travel: You can access travel deals and benefits through Costco.

4. Online Shopping: Apart from in-store, you can also shop conveniently on their website.

5. Gas Stations and More: Your membership opens doors to Costco’s gas stations, as well as their hearing aid centers, optical centers, and pharmacies.

How to Temporarily Stop or Freeze Your Costco Membership

Instead of completely canceling your Costco membership, you have the option to freeze or pause it, which is quite flexible.

For instance, military members often do this when they’re deployed and can’t use Costco It’s like pausing your membership.

You can pause it for a specific time and then restart it later by paying the renewal fees when you’re ready.

Costco memberships typically cost $60 or $120, and the renewal usually happens at the beginning of the month, depending on when you initially signed up.

When checking your statements, you might see the Costco membership renewal charge on your credit or debit card listed as “COSTCO *ANNUAL RENEWAL 800-774-2678 WA” or something similar.

It might also appear if you’re using other services, such as PayPal.

What are the Similar Services to Costco?

If you’re looking for the same kind of services, there are many other stores similar to Costco. And they are;

1. Sam’s Club

The annual cost for a basic membership to Sam’s Club is $45. It is a membership store. They also offer an easy membership for $100 that gives 2% cash back on Sam’s Club purchases.

Like Costco, they do not offer the military a discount but provide some other benefits. The number of Sam’s Club stores is around 600 throughout the US and Puerto Rico.

There is a way to cancel your membership at Sam’s Club if you ever need it.

2. BJ’s Wholesale

If you consider BJ’s Wholesale they have different membership options. A simple one is $55 a year, and there’s even an easier version that costs $ 100. They also provide online-only memberships, which cost $10 annually.

Online membership however presupposes purchasing goods via their website but not in the stores.

If you are in the military they offer a discount, Military members receive 25% off their membership and a $10 coupon. There are BJ’s in 17 states.

3. Walmart

Walmart+ is a club that allows you to enjoy cool perks if they join. It costs $12.95 a month. As a member, you benefit from special discounts provided to members – free shipment for some items and lower prices on certain products.

Also, you will first see the sales. As for members, if they use the Walmart pharmacy or gas station, there are additional savings. 

However, should you wish to terminate Walmart+ service at any point in time, one can learn how it is done.

If you end up choosing to leave your Costco membership at any time, do not think about it as shutting the door on this entirely; rather, it is just a temporary pause.

You can freeze it for a while, and when you’re ready to go back into the world of bulk shopping and great deals, just thaw it out by paying the renewal fees.

And, if you ever find yourself lost in the process, Costco’s friendly people are there to guide you through. So, it’s not a farewell; it’s more like a “see you later” to your Costco adventures.

Learning how to shop at Costco without a membership has its benefits. Surprisingly, there are ways to do it without being a member.

We all know the advantages of having a Costco membership, like getting cheap gas, amazing deals on things like glasses, refrigerators, eggs, and even planning an affordable vacation all at one store.

You can shop at Costco without membership through certain services. In the end, it might be a money-saver to just go ahead and buy a Costco membership.

We’ll explain how to shop at Costco without a membership and determine whether it would be better in the long run to sign up for one.

How to Shop at Costco Without a Membership

You usually need a Costco membership to shop there, but there are a few ways you can buy things without one:

1. The Guest of a Member May Visit the Warehouse

When you wish to shop at the warehouse, you have to tag along with a Costco member.

At Costco, members can bring two guests, but remember, only members can pay for purchases.

It is a matter of trust rather than scheduling with the members, so plan together your journey.

2. Stop by the Food Court

For people seeking a quick snack, there is a small food court in the smaller Costco food court usually near the exit.

Some of the employees will let you in with food alone if they are politely asked.

It’s not a promise, but try to get the Costco churros, sundaes, pizza, hot dogs, and the other cheap things on the menu.

3. Use a Costco Shop Card

It is possible to shop in Costco without a membership card by using a Costco Shop Card. This card is a kind of gift card and you can use it in the store to make purchases.

Do not forget that only members at Costco can purchase these cards; hence, one has to ask a member to acquire one on their behalf.

There could be savings, which could make it worth the request.

4. Shop Online

If you do not have a membership with Costco, you can still shop from their website.

Remember that a fee of 5% applies to non-members and sometimes prices may differ slightly online than in the store.

Also, some products are only for members. Despite these things, Costco has great deals, especially in tech and home goods. Check their website for the latest discounts.

5. Purchase Some Alcohol

If you’re not a Costco member, you can still buy alcohol at some locations without a membership. 

Depending on your state, there are separate entrances for non-members looking to purchase alcohol. States like Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Texas, and Vermont allow this.

Check the laws in your area or contact your local Costco to confirm. Take advantage of wholesale prices for your favorite drinks.

6. Head to the Pharmacy

You can visit the Costco pharmacy even if you’re not a member. Just tell the staff that you’re heading to the pharmacy when you enter without a membership card. 

Costco has unbeatable prices for prescriptions, making it a cost-effective option, and you can order your medications online and have them delivered to your doorstep.

Yearly Flu shots and other vaccinations are easily gotten at Costco. This serves as a convenient one-stop shop for all your family’s health requirements.

7. Schedule an Eye Exam

Another thing can do without a Costco membership is book an eye exam at Costco Optical Centers.

They have licensed optometrists and accept most major vision insurance. 

After your appointment, keep in mind that buying eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other items is restricted to members. 

8. Special Events and Open Houses

At times, Costco schedules special occasions or open houses for those who are not members, and they are permitted to shop in Costco.

In these periods, you can visit the store and enjoy Costco’s services without a membership card.

You can learn about these events by contacting your local Costco location or checking the posts for any upcoming programs.

9. Business Membership

Costco has a business membership and this is a better fact given that it is not reserved for people with specific jobs. This membership is not only applicable to an average business.

No matter if you are a small business owner, a home-based worker, or simply self-employed, you may be qualified for Costco’s Business Membership.

It’s a form that allows individuals with different professional circumstances to exploit the privileges and economies of scale that Costco offers to its business members.

Can I Use Another Person’s Costco Card?

No, you cannot use someone else’s Costco card. It is noted that, as per the Costco membership policy, membership cards are not transferable.

Costco has introduced several measures, for instance, checking the membership cards at self-checkout and verifying the membership status with the Card photo.

If there is no photo on the membership card, Costco may request a photo ID to confirm the shopper’s identity.

The Costco membership policy states that the neighboring member’s card should not be used and neither is it acceptable behavior by the company.

Does Costco Offer Free Shopping Passes?

Yes, Costco does not offer free passes for potential clients.

However, the retailer provides some flexibility by allowing members to cancel their membership throughout the first year and get a 100 percent refund.

This method becomes convenient for people who can move to an area with no Costco or those who more often shop in alternative grocery stores.

It should be observed, however, that to take advantage of a full refund, it is imperative to cancel the subscription before the start of the first year, otherwise a full membership fee will be charged.

Options for shopping at Costco without a membership include online shopping, Costco Shop Cards, and going with a friend who is a member.

However, it would be wise to consider a membership for those who often visit Costco.

The membership afforded you convenience, savings, and possibly something more goodies if you are a regular at Costco, which could make it a great bargain for you.

Are you a pizza lover, wondering how to order Costco Pizza to satisfy your tasty craving with a wallet-friendly slice from Costco’s food court?

Don’t worry; we will make your pizza dream a reality because we are here to make getting your hot and fresh Costco pizza very easy and simple.

Let’s check out how to order a Costco pizza, see how long it takes, check the calories in different types, and find some healthy snacks available at Costco.

How to Order Costco Pizza

To get a Costco pizza, you can either call ahead or go to the store in person. Unfortunately, there’s no online ordering option.

Pay for the pizza at the regular checkout, the self-checkout, or the food court self-checkout. After paying, wait for your receipt’s order number to be called, and then pick up your pizza at the food court desk.

A whole pizza takes around 15-30 minutes to make and costs $9.95. It’s big enough to feed 4-6 people.

The detailed breakdown steps on how to order Costco Pizza are as follows;

1. Call Ahead or Order with a Phone

If you want Costco pizza, call them in advance (about 30 minutes before you want it) or go to the store to order. If you call, they’ll tell you when it’ll be ready. Go to Costco at that time.

If you’re ordering in person, go to the food court desk and say what pizza you want.

Sadly, you can’t order online, and they don’t deliver the pizza. To find the phone number, use Costco’s locator online.

You need a membership to get pizza, which you can buy online or in the store.

2. Pay for Your Pizza with a Credit Card

If you plan to pick up your pizza at Costco, pay for it when you arrive. They include paying by the regular checkout, food court’s self-service checkout, and self-checkout.

When you are paying, then mention to the employee what kind of pizzas and how many of them you would like.

They will take your order and then you can pay. When ordering in person, pay after you order your pizza at the food court counter.

If you want to use cash, go to the normal checkout area. Regular checkout, self-checkout, and food court self-checkout are acceptable options if you pay by debit or credit card.

3. Pick up Your Pizza

If you pre-ordered, go to the food court desk and get your pizza.

If you placed your order in person, wait in the food court until someone calls out your order number once your pizza has been prepared.

If you are ordering a lot of pies or require them to be delivered at a particular time, calling in advance will eliminate some wait time.

You order your pizza and do your grocery shopping; you load your car, and then you come back to get your pizza to ensure it doesn’t get cold.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Costco Pizza?

It may take you 15-30 minutes to have your Costco pizza, but it depends on how busy the food court is.

If you don’t want to wait you can order a pizza 30 minutes to an hour ahead of time and go to the shop and pick it up.

Costco offers three types of pizza: Cheese, pepperoni, or half-and-half. Large cheese or pepperoni pizza costs 9.95 dollars, and this price has been constant since 1985.

Alternatively, you can get a combo of half cheese and half pepperoni at the same price. Costco once offered pizzas with veggies and sausage but discontinued that in 2020.

A typical 18-inch pizza has twelve cuts, but you can ask them to cut it into eighteen if it is what you want. Customers can order pepperoni, cheese, or half-and-half pizza.

A large pizza is bigger than most delivery places offer for a better price. Since people typically eat 2-3 slices, a whole Costco pizza can feed about 4-6 people.

If you want just one slice, it costs $1.99. While it might seem a bit pricey, the slices at Costco are larger than usual because they cut them into 6 pieces instead of 12.

What is the Procedure for Ordering from Costco’s Website?

Sending orders through Costco’s website is convenient. Just follow these steps:

1. Register or sign in on Costco.com with your email and password. If you’re new, sign up. If you are a member, don’t forget to mention your membership number.

2. Once you are a member, start shopping. You can search for items by choosing a category on the left side of the page or by using the search box.

3. Start surfing for something you would like to purchase. Indicate the number of items you need and click “Add to Cart”. You will get a message that it was added and you can proceed shopping or view your cart.

4. Once you’ve finished shopping, click on your cart and then “Checkout.”

5. Once you have entered your shipping and payment information, click on “Continue to Review Order.”

6. Make sure your order is correct before clicking “Place Your Order.”

7. Following your purchase, you’ll receive an order confirmation email with an order number.

8. As soon as your cargo is sent, you will receive an email containing a tracking number and instructions on how to track your order.

Different Types of Costco Pizza Calories and Nutrition

There are different types of Costco pizza calories and nutrition available for you to choose from and some of them are;

1. A Slice of Costco’s Whole Cheese Pizza

A slice of Costco’s whole cheese pizza contains approximately 355 calories. Each serving size is about 4.75 oz, equivalent to 1/12 of the entire pizza.

They include; Fat: 14g (22% DV), Saturated Fat: 7g (44% DV), Trans Fat: 0.5g, Cholesterol: 38 mg (13% DV), Sodium: 890 mg (39% DV), Carbohydrates: 39g (13% DV), Fiber: 4.5g (19% DV), Sugar: 2.5g (3% DV) and, Protein: 20.5g (41% DV).

2. A Whole Costco Cheese Pizza

A whole Costco cheese pizza has approximately 4260 total calories. The serving size for the entire pizza is about 57 oz.

They include; Fat: 161g (248% DV), Saturated Fat: 83g (519% DV), Trans Fat: 6g, Cholesterol: 440 mg (147% DV), Sodium: 10710 mg (466% DV), Carbohydrates: 467g (156% DV), Fiber: 52g (217% DV), Sugar: 31g (34% DV) and, Protein: 247g (494% DV).

3. A Slice of Costco’s Whole Pepperoni Pizza

A slice of Costco’s whole pepperoni pizza has around 325 calories, and each serving is about 4.75 ounces, equivalent to 1/12 of the entire pizza.

They include; Fat: 12g (18% DV), Saturated Fat: 5.5g (34% DV), Trans Fat: 0.5g, Cholesterol: 30 mg (10% DV), Sodium: 870mg (38% DV), Carbohydrates: 38g (13% DV), Fiber: 3.5g (15% DV), Sugar: 2.5g (3% DV) and, Protein: 17g (34% DV).

4. A Whole Pepperoni Pizza

A whole pepperoni pizza contains approximately 3880 total calories, with a serving size of about 51.4 ounces.

They include; Fat: 145g (223% DV), Saturated Fat: 64g (400% DV), Trans Fat: 3.5g, Cholesterol: 355 mg (118% DV), Sodium: 10450 mg (454% DV), Carbohydrates: 449g (150% DV), Fiber: 44g (183% DV), Sugar: 33g (37% DV)and, Protein: 202g (404% DV).

Nutritious Snacks Available At Costco

Costco has lots of healthy snacks, like nuts, gluten-free crackers, dried fruit, yogurt, and seeds, sold under their Kirkland Signature brand.

Kirkland is Costco’s brand, so it’s more affordable. Check out some of the healthy snacks you can load up on at Costco.

1. Simple Mills Almond Flour Sea Salt Crackers

These gluten-free crackers are made with almond flour and have calcium, iron, and potassium. People like to snack on them with dips or make appetizers with them.

2. Kirkland Signature Organic Hummus

Hummus is a healthy snack with fiber and protein. Costco sells it in individual 2.5-ounce cups, convenient for on-the-go or travel.

3. Lulú Platanitos Plantain Chips

Costco has plantain chips by Lulú Platanitos. They may not be the healthiest, but they taste good. People say they’re the best plantain chips, and they come in a box of 30 bags.

4. Kirkland Signature Sunsweet Whole Dried Plums

If you like dried fruit, try Costco’s Sunsweet Whole Dried Plums. They’re high in fiber, fat-free, and contain vitamin A, calcium, and potassium.

5. ChocXO Keto Dark Chocolate Coconut Almonds Snaps

For a chocolatey treat, Costco has ChocXO Keto Snaps. They’re lower in sugar, organic, non-GMO, and suitable for gluten-free, vegan, or keto diets. You can also find them on Amazon, but some say Costco has better prices.

Getting Costco pizza is simple. Whether you call ahead or walk in, follow the steps: order, pay, and pick up.

If you’re the planner type, calling ahead can save you time. Remember, online ordering isn’t an option, but that’s alright.

Once you’re there, explore the food wonders, load your cart, and top it off with a delicious pizza, and you will be set to enjoy a tasty Costco pizza feast with friends or family.

If you want access to a universe of savings and special privileges on necessary items every day, learning how to get a Costco membership is the pathway to a shopping paradise incomparable to any other.

Costco functions as a membership-only warehouse club uniquely offering numerous diverse products that cost less than regular retail prices.

A Costco membership is mandatory to shop in the store. If you have a friend or acquaintance with a membership, they can call you, although the first cardholder is responsible for all transactions.

In this light, let us look at the Costco membership card acquisition and the benefits accompanying the Costco membership on shopping habits.

How to Get a Costco Membership

To get your membership online, follow these steps:

1. Check Out the Membership Options

To begin with, go to the Costco website and specify their membership types. Alternatively, choose an Executive Membership if you need additional privileges for an individual or a business.

2. Fill out the Application

After selecting the membership type, complete the application form online. Information on you as a primary member will have to be disclosed and, if necessary, another person can be added to the membership.

3. Save & Continue

Press the “Save and continue” button. Here you will confirm the membership purchase.

4. Check Your Email

After finishing the transaction, you will be sent an email from Costco. This e-mail includes the membership number for your new membership.

5. Pick Up Your Cards

In case you wish to have your genuine membership cards, then will need to visit the closest Costco membership kiosk. When you present the email and your membership number they will give you cards.

How To Renew My Costco Membership?

If you want to renew your Costco membership or make changes to your Auto Renewal settings, here’s a simple guide:

1. Visit the Costco site, and click on Sign In/Register in the top right portion of the page. To make sure that your membership is verified go ahead.

2. But if you are already logged in, look for “Account” on the left of the page under Orders & Returns.

3. Go to the “Account” tab, and click on Renew Membership.

4. In this instance, you may either include or exclude Auto-Renewal and choose a Visa card as well as a Mastercard for automatic renewals.

In this way, you can conveniently control the renewal of your Costco membership and make any needed adjustments to your Automatic Renewal settings.

Please note when renewing your Costco membership, the last day of the expiration month should be followed by payment for such fees. Fees can be paid by mail, on the Costco website, or at any warehouse.

Mastercard owners or Visa cardholders may select auto-renewal to be charged at the beginning of their renewal month.

What is the Cost of a Costco Membership?

There are three membership options available at Costco, and no matter which membership you select you can use it to make purchases at any Costco location on the planet.

The cost of a Costco membership varies depending on the type of membership that you select. The prices include:

1. Gold Star Membership ($60/year)

You can join Costco if you’re not a business and get their basic membership called Gold Star if you want to. It costs $60 per year.

The intriguing aspect is that if you stay with another person who is 18 years and above, they can use it at no further cost.

Thus, for $60 annually, you and one household member enjoy all the perks of a Costco subscription.

2. Business Membership ($60/year)

The Business Membership is available for business owners who wish to buy items for their businesses, personal consumption, and selling. The cost is $60 per year and the package includes two cards.

However, in case the need arises, each additional cardholder will cost you $60 per year. The only membership type that permits additional members is this.

To receive a Business Membership, you must present a form of business documentation, e.g., a business license or three different business IDs.

3. Executive Membership ($120/year)

Executive Membership is $120 per year with two Household Cards. It provides you with additional savings on Costco services as well as certain travel offers.

Furthermore, you receive an annual 2% cash back on qualified purchases from Costco. If you spend about $3,000 a year on products like groceries, furniture, and electronics, you’ll get $60 back.

Therefore, it may be worth the higher fee for this membership if you buy selectively.

What are the Benefits of a Costco Membership?

A Costco membership provides several benefits and offers that allow you to save money on different items.

1. Groceries and Household Items

At Costco, you can purchase larger quantities of goods, which means that you will get your money’s worth. They offer discounts on food items, household products, and their brand – which is referred to as Kirkland Signature.

Thus, you can buy food, vitamins, pet food, and even clothes that bear the Kirkland Signature label, which stands for quality.

Even some Costco stores deliver your items through a service called Instacart on the same day. This is how you can have what you want delivered right to your doorstep.

2. Gas Discounts

Costco is known for selling gasoline cheaper than anywhere else. They have the Kirkland Signature Gasoline brand.

If you would like to know the location of the closest gas station, you will find the information on Costco’s website.

3. Clothing and Home Goods

Costco offers many options in terms of clothing, furniture, and home accessories. They sell products of famous brands.

Members they will deliver and install large appliances in your home and you benefit from additional security brought by the two-year warranty.

Therefore, not only can you purchase clothing and household items at Costco, but they also deliver and install large items at home.

4. Travel Discounts

As a Costco member, you would save on travel expenses.

They have something called Costco Travel where you can organize vehicles, holidays, cruises, and hotel rooms for a lower price.

But you also need to check prices on other sites to ensure that you are getting a good deal.

5. Car Services

The Costco Auto Program offers Costco members substantial savings on new and used cars.

Besides, you will also save on tires and batteries when they are urgently required. It is a good choice to save money on everything automotive.

6. Insurance and Health Discounts

So, as one of the Costco members, saving on insurance and other health-related stuff is possible.

They make available a discount for home and auto insurance with their CONNECT program which is a joint venture between them and American Family Insurance.

Costco also provides unique deals for health, vision, life, and even pet insurance.

7. Pharmacy and Medication

Your prescriptions are more affordable for a Costco member. Cheap prescription drugs are also available at Costco Pharmacy.

They also provide the Costco Membership Prescription Program, where you can get further savings on your prescriptions.

It can become less costly for you to purchase the drugs you need if you become a Costco member.

8. Home Services

For a Costco member, you could also get help with household-related questions.

Costco offers services such as the installation of shelving or portions of remodeling your houses and when you book these services, you obtain a Costco Shop Card.

This card is a present card, costing 10% of the value of the service itself. This is why it is not only possible to obtain help with some household chores but also benefit from a small bonus in the form of a Costco membership card.

9. Photo Printing

With Costco, printing out your favorite photos is very convenient. At their Photo Center, people get the facility to print posters, photo books, calendars, and also cards.

So, if you have special memories captured in photos, Costco gives you a convenient way to bring them to life in different forms. 

Can I Get a Free Costco Membership?

No, Costco doesn’t give out free or discounted memberships, but they do have special deals for certain groups.

You can take advantage of a special deal or offer if you’re a teacher, college student, medical professional, military personnel, government employee, or first responder. 

When you get a Costco membership, they’ll throw in a digital gift card as a bonus.

Learning how to get a Costco membership is a smart investment in getting good deals and making your life easier.

The money you save and the convenience you get make the membership fee worth it. It’s a great investment for both regular individuals and businesses.

Does Costco take American Express? Costco is a large and popular membership warehouse store known for offering a wide variety of products. People love it for groceries, but it also has deals on gas, electronics, clothes, and more.

When you’re getting ready for a big event, feeding your family, or just looking for a bunch of different things, people trust Costco to have what they need.

However, it’s essential to note that Costco has specific guidelines regarding the types of credit cards it accepts. 

So, the question is, does Costco take American Express?

Does Costco Take American Express?

Costco doesn’t take American Express, Mastercard, or Discover for in-store purchases anymore. 

Until 2016, only American Express was accepted. But then, Costco and American Express ended their partnership. 

Now, Citi issues exclusive Costco credit cards, and Visa is the only network for these cards in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

However, if you’re a Costco member, you can still purchase a Costco Shop card online using Mastercard, Discover, or Diners Club.

Why Did Costco End the American Express Partnership?

Costco stopped using American Express in 2016 because American Express relied too much on a few big partnerships, with Costco being a major one.

When they announced the split, it came out that 10% of all American Express cards were connected to Costco. This meant a lot of their customers were tied to Costco.

After Costco, other big partners like JetBlue and Fidelity also decided to stop working with American Express and chose other companies like MasterCard and Visa instead.

Losing these important partners hurt American Express. This caused a drop in their earnings since they used to make a significant amount of money from these collaborations.

What are the Credit Cards Accepted at Costco?

Costco mostly takes Visa cards when you’re shopping in their stores. But there are a few places where you can use other credit cards:

1. Credit Cards in Costco Warehouses

Any Visa credit card, such as the Costco Anywhere Visa Card from Citi, can be used to purchase your heavy Costco shopping sprees.

The Costco Anywhere Visa Card offers cashback rewards that include 4% back on gas and EV charging (up to $7,000 per year, then 1% back), 3% back at restaurants and travel, 2% back at Costco, and 1% on all other purchases.

If you want to look at other credit cards, some popular ones at Costco include the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card and Chase Freedom Unlimited. These cards also provide rebates, in the form of points or cashback, for different kinds of purchases.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card gives you Ultimate Rewards points, as opposed to the Chase Freedom Unlimited, where you can earn cash back but do not have to pay an annual fee.

2. Costco’s Gas Stations Accept Credit Cards

At Costco gas station, you can pay using only a Visa credit card when filling up your car.

The Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi, due to its excellent gas rewards, is a solid pick in this situation.

But other gas credit cards offer excellent benefits for buying gas. For instance, the Chase Freedom Unlimited. In the first year, you will earn 5% cash back on the first $6,000 spent on fuel purchases (then 1.5% back).

This card also provides 5% back for booked travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% back on dining and drugstore transactions, and 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

3. Credit Cards on Costco Website

While shopping on the Costco website or the Costco App, you have several payment options with various credit cards.

They also accept Discover cards (including JCB and Diners Club) and Mastercard credit cards on the Costco website and app.

This adaptability enables you to utilize various reward cards and also cash-back credit cards for your online purchases from Costco.

What If Costco Doesn’t Accept My Credit Card?

If your credit card doesn’t work at Costco, here’s what you can do:

1. See if Costco accepts your credit card based on their list of accepted cards.

2. In case your card is not accepted, you can use other payment options such as debit card, cash, or even Costco Cash Card.

3. Call your credit card company to ensure there is no any problem with your card, such as a temporary freeze or any limitation.

4. Verify that you have not exceeded your credit limit and ensure that the card information like (name, expiration date, security code) is correctly entered.

5. If you hold several credit cards, test another one to check if the issue remains the same.

6. Alternatively, you can also use the Costco Cash Cards as prepaid options.

7. In case everything else fails, go to the Costco customer service desk for help.

A Costco membership gives one several advantages, among them, buying many household items and groceries at the same time. However, when it comes to payment, Costco is very selective with the cards.

Check your wallet before you shop at the Costco. They take Visa only for credit card payments, so do not take your American Express.

Now, if you’re thinking of getting a credit card for Costco, you can go for the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi or another Visa card. Just pick the one that suits you best and gives you what you want from a credit card.

Does Costco take Apple Pay? Do you ever struggle to find your cash or cards at the checkout after filling up your cart with goodies?

Well, don’t worry; Apple Pay is like a digital magic trick that makes it easier. It’s like having your wallet on your phone, saying goodbye to the stress of carrying cash.

Get ready, because we’ve got the scoop on whether your Apple Pay can smoothly work its magic at the Costco checkout and if it is safer to use at Costco.

Does Costco Take Apple Pay?

Costco is a big-box retailer where you may get multiple items at discounted costs. A membership costs money, but there are benefits.

In addition to their own Kirkland Signature products, they sell quality brands. Everything is available, including electronics, meals, and even automobile rentals.

Apple Pay is like a digital wallet from Apple. It enables you to pay through the internet Safari, at shops in person, and using iPhone apps.

It is compatible with Mac computers, iPads, Apple Watches, and iPhones. It makes sense to use Apple Pay at Costco. All you need is your phone; you don’t need cash or cards.

Your card information is kept protected with Apple Pay, so it’s safe. It’s also rapid because all it takes is a few phone touches to complete.

You can use Apple Pay at all U.S. Costco stores. It’s an easy way to buy things.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Only Use Visa Cards

Make sure your Apple Pay is connected to a Visa card. Because other cards like MasterCard, Discover, and American Express don’t work at Costco.

2. Digital Membership Card

Download your Costco membership card to your Apple Wallet. When you pay, you’ll need to scan both your membership card and Apple Pay.

3. Not for Gas

You can’t use Apple Pay at Costco gas stations. But you can use a physical credit card or cash for gas.

However, using Apple Pay at Costco is a convenient way to pay. Just remember to use a Visa card and have your digital membership card ready.

What Forms of Payment are Accepted at Costco?

You can choose to pay with cash, check, or other means that the warehouse accepts after you visit Costco:

1. Using Google, Apple, and Samsung Pay for mobile payments

2. Costco retailer cards

3. Debit and ATM cards that require a pin

4. The EBT card

5. Travelers’ checks

6. Visa credit cards.

Is It Secure to Use Apple Pay At Costco?

Instead of using cash or a regular credit card in a store, Apple Pay might be a safer option. Though you might feel more secure having your cash on you, cards might get lost or stolen.

The retailer receives information, such as your account number, when you swipe your credit card.

Your card number is never kept on Apple Pay’s servers or your device. It only sends the info the store needs, like your contact details, to finish the payment.

This helps keep your information more secure during the transaction.

How Do You Use Apple Pay at Costco?

Apply Pay at Costco can be used in the following ways:

1. Let the Cashier Know: You can inform the person handling your payment that you’ll want to use Apple Pay and choose it at the register.

2. Configure Your Device: Verify that you have it on your iPhone or Apple Watch.

3. Open Apple Pay: Launch the Apple Pay application on your gadget.

4. Select Your Card: Select the card which will be used for the purchase.

5. Hold It Nearby: To enable the payment machine to read the data, keep your smartphone nearby.

6. Await Confirmation: If your Apple Watch is being used, the process will conclude with an alarm and a vibration. Hold off on taking any instructions or cues from the clerk.

7. Finish the Checkout: Just remove your device when required, and you’re done. The payment has been completed.

What Credit Cards Does Costco Accept?

The credit cards accepted at petrol stations, Costco stores, and online are

1. Purchasing Items from Costco Stores

Any Visa credit card can be used, including the Citi Costco Anywhere Visa Card, which offers cash back on dining out, travel, gas, and Costco purchases.

2. Purchasing Fuel at Costco

Use a Visa credit card, such as the Costco Anywhere Visa Card, to get fantastic gas benefits when you purchase gas at Costco locations.

Good cashback is also offered on gas purchases with other cards, such as Chase Freedom Unlimited.

3. Purchasing Using the Costco Website

You can pay with Visa, Mastercard, or Discover cards (including JCB and Diners Club) when you shop at Costco online.

An example is the Citi Double Cash Card, which gives you 2% cash back on all your purchases.

Credit Cards Not Accepted at Costco

These are credit cards that are not accepted at Costco and some of them are;

1. Mastercard

You can’t use Mastercard at Costco stores, but if you’re shopping on their website or using the app, you can use a special Mastercard like the Chase Freedom Flex.

Costco likes Visa cards in their physical stores, so make sure to use a Visa card when you’re actually at Costco.

2. The American Express

Before 2016, Costco was limited to accepting American Express (Amex) credit cards, and you could obtain Costco-specific Amex cards.

But starting in June 2016, Costco ceased using American Express credit cards for online purchases and Costco app usage and instead shifted to accepting Visa. So, if you have an Amex card, it has not been usable at Costco since the summer of 2016.

3. Discover

A Discover card cannot be used inside a Costco store, however, it can be used online and via the Costco mobile app.

Recall that Discover is acceptable for purchases made via the app and online, but not for in-person purchases at Costco.

Apple Pay is accepted at Costco, however, you must use a Visa card that is linked to your Apple Pay, but you need to use a Visa card with it, connected to your Apple Pay.

So, if you’re into Apple packages and have the right card, using Apple Pay at Costco makes your checkout fast and simple.

Just remember, it’s like having a special key but in this case, a Visa card with Apple Pay to unlock the Apple Pay magic at Costco.

How much does Costco pay for Membership Clerk? You will be thrilled to learn about the salary range for a Membership clerk in the U.S. So, buckle up because we are about to explore the dollars and cents of everything.

We’re talking about the people who ensure all the membership paperwork is shipshape, handling new members, changes, and card duties.

Stay with us to find out what makes this job not only well-organized but also satisfying. So, let’s talk about the salaries of Costco Membership Clerks.

How Much Does Costco Pay for Membership Clerk?

Before approving new members or changing member information, the Costco Membership Clerk ensures that all the necessary documentation is in order and that everything is completed.

In addition, he is in charge of responding to inquiries, managing correspondence, processing requests for dependents, printing, packing, and shipping membership cards.

Employees with Costco Memberships in the US make $20.96 each hour on average as of January 4, 2024. From as little as $9.38 to as high as $37.50, an hourly wage is possible.

The majority of Costco Membership employees are in the 25th percentile, at $15.38, and the 75th percentile, at $24.28.

This wide pay range suggests that there are opportunities for better pay based on skills, location, and experience.

To figure out the most accurate hourly pay range for Costco Membership jobs, ZipRecruiter constantly checks its database of job listings from all over the United States.

Costco Membership Clerk Job Description

As a Membership Clerk, your main job is ensuring members have a smooth and enjoyable time when they shop.

If you love helping people and are good at talking with them, doing the tasks in your job description will be simple.

The breakdown of Membership Clerk Job Descriptions is as follows;

1. Helping People Join

Help people register memberships, leading them through the process and making sure all required information is provided.

2. Handling Renewals

Manage membership renewals, keeping members engaged and aware of the benefits of renewing.

3. Card Management

Supervise the insertion of new cards, substitutes, and temporary cards, ensuring that members have unlimited access to services.

4. Explaining Programs

Provide education to both prospective as well as current members regarding the advantages of membership, credit strategies, and much more.

5. Availability Assistance

Help members locate the needed items by informing them about the availability of products.

6. Returns Processing

Manage membership and retail returns, refunds, and credits, and recording adjustments.

7. Community Engagement

Participate in local events that contribute to positive community relationships and increase membership registrations and sales.

8. Contacting Expired Members

Contact members who have expired memberships to persuade them to renew and keep participating.

9. Documentation

Keep accurate member records including details, changes, and other such information that would ensure information completeness and compliance.

10. Problem Resolution

Address and address any concerns or queries raised by members, providing an excellent level of service and satisfaction.

Highest Paying Cities for Costco Membership Jobs

There are ten top cities where Costco Membership jobs pay more than the average across the country.

If you’re thinking about moving for work, these cities offer good opportunities for earning more.

Also, the salaries in these top cities are pretty close, so there’s not much room for big salary increases.

Considering the cost of living might be more important than the salary when deciding where to work as a Costco member.

The breakdown from the top is as follows;

City	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay	Weekly Pay	Hourly Wage
San Jose, CA	$55,884	$4,657	$1,074	$26.87
Oakland, CA	$54,654	$4,554	$1,051	$26.28
Hayward, CA	$54,561	$4,546	$1,049	$26.23
Ashland, CA	$54,555	$4,546	$1,049	$26.23
Antioch, CA	$54,524	$4,543	$1,048	$26.21
Seattle, WA	$54,261	$4,521	$1,043	$26.09
Santa Cruz, CA	$52,787	$4,398	$1,015	$25.38
Seaside, CA	$52,689	$4,390	$1,013	$25.33
Concord, CA	$52,218	$4,351	$1,004	$25.11
Sunnyvale, CA	$52,153	$4,346	$1,002	$25.07

Top Paying Related Costco Membership Jobs in the U.S.

There are five top jobs related to Costco Membership that pay more than the usual Costco Membership position.

If you have the right qualifications, landing one of these related jobs could mean making more money than the average Costco Membership role.

The breakdown of the top best jobs is as follows;

Job Title	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay	Weekly Pay	Hourly Wage
Costco Health Solutions	$150,159	$12,513	$2,887	$72.19
Costco Software Engineer	$147,524	$12,293	$2,837	$70.92
Costco Online	$135,898	$11,324	$2,613	$65.34
Costco Technology	$105,916	$8,826	$2,036	$50.92
Costco Quality Assurance	$97,144	$8,095	$1,868	$46.70

Working as a Costco Membership Clerk pays around $20.96 per hour on average. However, it can vary from $9.38 to $37.50 depending on factors like your skills and where you work.

The job involves making sure all the paperwork is for new members, handling changes and inquiries, and taking care of card printing and distribution.

While the pay is decent, the wide salary range suggests there’s room for advancement based on your experience and location.

So, if you’re organized and detail-oriented, being a Costco Membership Clerk could be a good engagement.      

Does Costco do oil changes on cars? The US Department of Transportation reports that approximately 40 million households in the United States own at least one car. This means that you or someone you know has probably changed the oil in their car recently.

Costco is a members-only store that sells a variety of things like food, electronics, and furniture. 

But, besides that, they also give their members discounts on car services through something called the Costco Auto Program.

Now that you know this, you might be wondering if Costco’s Auto Program offers oil change services for people with cars. Let’s jump right in!

Does Costco Do Oil Changes on Cars?

No, Costco used to provide oil change services for cars in the U.S., but they stopped offering this service around 2016 or 2017.

However, Costco offers discounts (15% off) on other car maintenance services and parts at participating centers. 

Although it’s a good option for various car repairs and maintenance, it’s important to note that oil changes are not included in their services anymore.

Why Did Costco Discontinue Oil Change Services?

Costco stopped offering oil changes as part of its services because oil changes often come with discounts, and it didn’t make sense to provide additional discounts on already discounted services. 

Costco’s business model primarily revolves around selling bulk merchandise at low prices rather than offering services.

Even though some people may be disappointed by this choice, Costco is still a great option because it offers a wide variety of products and services at really good prices. 

Also, if you’re a Costco member, you get extra benefits like special discounts and access to lots of different products and services.

Where Else Can I Get My Oil Changed?

Since Costco doesn’t do oil changes, you’ll need to look into other options. Here are the options to consider:

1. Commercial Oil Change Businesses

Places like Mida, Firestone, Pep Boys, and Jiffy Lube offer oil change services. 

Jiffy Lube’s oil change can cost you between $39.99 to $99.99. Midas charges $19.99 to $79.99, Firestone starts at $39.99, and Pep Boys’ oil change ranges from $31.99 to $74.99.

2. Dealerships

Although dealerships are often more expensive and time-consuming, they have the latest equipment and trained staff, which can be important for newer cars with advanced technology. 

You can check if their prices match or accept competitors’ coupons.

3. Do It Yourself (DIY)

If you’re up for it, you can change your oil. Buy the oil you need from a discount store like Walmart or Amazon. 

This option lets you avoid potential upsells from commercial places or dealerships. It’s also an opportunity to learn something new and enjoy the satisfaction of doing it yourself.

Does Costco Sell Motor Oil?

Even though Costco doesn’t do oil changes anymore, you can still buy motor oil from them. 

They have different brands like Mobil, Castrol, and their own Kirkland brand. You can get it both in the store and online. 

The Prices start at $19.99 and go up to around $56, depending on the type and how much you need. 

So, if you need motor oil for your car, Costco has you covered.

What Additional Car Services Does Costco Provide?

Costco offers car maintenance and repair services specifically at their Tire Centers. 

The services they provide include tire installation, fixing any issues with your tires, and general upkeep of the tire.

These services are available for all types of vehicles like cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs. Being a Costco member allows you to take advantage of:

• Lifetime Balancing: Ensuring your tires stay balanced.
• Mounting: Putting the tires on your vehicle.
• Tire Installation: Installing new tires.
• New Rubber Valve: Including a new valve with your tire service.
• Road Hazard Warranty: Protection in case of unexpected issues.
• Lifetime Air Pressure Checks: Keeping your tires properly inflated.

Remember, these services are exclusive to Costco members. If you want more details, you can reach out to Costco customer support by phone, available Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Even though Costco doesn’t handle oil changes, they’re a popular store that offers a variety of products and services.

They’re currently focused on providing affordable tire installation and maintenance services. 

You can use the “Find A Warehouse” tool on their website if you want to see if your local Costco offers tire services.