So, you’re thinking about signing up for a Costco membership but can’t shake the worry that they might not accept your preferred credit card, right?
It’s no secret that wholesale clubs like Costco have been picky about which credit cards they let you use at checkout. But it’s not as restrictive as it once was.
We’ve done the research on which credit cards Costco will actually accept and have picked out some of the best ones. If you’re looking to score the most rewards while shopping at one of Clark Howard’s favorite spots, we’ve got you covered.
Which Credit Cards Are Accepted at Costco?
When you’re shopping at a Costco Warehouse, whether in-store or at the gas station, you’ll need a Visa-branded credit card. That’s the only option they’ll accept for these purchases.
But, when you’re shopping online at Costco.com or through the Costco app, you get more flexibility. You can use not only Visa but also Mastercard and Discover cards for your online buys.
If you’re an American Express credit card user, though, you might have noticed it’s no longer part of the equation. Amex used to be Costco’s exclusive in-store credit card partner, but that partnership ended back in 2016. So, if you’ve got an Amex, you’re out of luck for in-store purchases.
Top 3 Visa Cards to Use at Costco or Costco.com With No Annual-Fee
Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
Earn 2% back on all Costco purchases, plus 5% cash back on gas at Costco. You’ll also get 4% cash back on other gas and EV (electric vehicle) charging purchases, up to the first $7,000 combined annually (then 1%). Plus, 3% back on restaurants and travel, including Costco Travel, and 1% back on everything else.
Fidelity® Rewards Visa Signature
Earn 2% cash back on all purchases, with rewards deposited directly into your retirement or investment account.
Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card
Get 2.5% cash back on all purchases for Tier 1 members.
Is the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi Worth It?
If you’re a regular at Costco, one of the easiest ways to simplify your spending at the store might be signing up for the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi.
With this card, you’ll earn 2% cash back on everything you buy at Costco—whether you’re shopping in-store or online. But that’s just the beginning. You’ll also get solid rewards in other categories, including 5% cash back on gas at Costco and 4% on other gas and electric vehicle (EV) charging purchases, up to the first $7,000 per year (then it drops to 1%).
On top of that, you’ll earn 3% back on dining and eligible travel purchases, including Costco Travel. And for all other purchases, you get 1% cash back.
This card doubles as your Costco membership card, making it even more convenient.
Does Costco Accept Mastercard for In-Store Purchases?
Costco doesn’t accept Mastercard for in-store purchases, but you can absolutely use it when shopping online through Costco.com or the Costco app.
If you plan on using a Mastercard for your online shopping at Costco, we’ve got three great options to help you maximize your rewards on those purchases.
Top 3 Mastercard Options to Use at Costco or Costco.com With No Annual Fee
Citi Double Cash® Card
A favorite for cash back, this card earns you an unlimited 2% on every purchase—1% when you make the purchase and another 1% when you pay it off (as long as you pay at least the minimum due on time). It works great for Costco.com purchases.
Chase Freedom Flex®
This rotating 5% cash back card gives you the chance to earn 5% back on your Costco.com purchases during select three-month periods. Keep an eye on the rotating categories for maximum rewards.
PayPal Cashback Mastercard®
Earn a straightforward 1.5% cash back on all your purchases, including those at Costco.
Is American Express Accepted at Costco?
If you’re hoping to use an American Express card at Costco, unfortunately, you’re out of luck. No matter if you’re shopping at the warehouse or on Costco’s website, Amex is not accepted.
This may be a surprise, especially since Costco and American Express had an exclusive in-store deal for years. At one time, Amex was the only card you could use at Costco’s checkout. But that arrangement ended in 2016, and Visa stepped in to take over the exclusive rights for in-store payments.
What About Discover Cards at Costco?
Discover cards are also not accepted at Costco, either in-store or for online orders on Costco.com or through the app.
This is a recent change, as Discover was just removed from the list of accepted payment methods for online and app transactions.
Credit Cards You Can’t Use In-Store at Costco
Just to reiterate, if you’re planning to shop in-store at Costco, make sure you bring a Visa-branded credit card. That’s the only type of card Costco will accept for in-store purchases.
While there are plenty of credit and debit card options out there that are accepted, there are still some well-known brands that won’t work at Costco.
Be sure not to count on these popular credit cards when you’re shopping at Costco or fueling up at the gas station, as they won’t be accepted.
- Apple Card
- Citi Double Cash® Card
- Chase Freedom Flex®
- Discover it® Cash Back
- PayPal Cashback Mastercard
- Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
It can be a bit frustrating, especially in today’s world where nearly every retailer takes most major credit cards. But with a little heads-up, you can keep track of which cards will work and which ones won’t at Costco.
