Payment Methods at Costco 🛒
In-Store Purchases
Costco has specific policies regarding credit card acceptance at their warehouse locations. Due to an exclusive partnership with Visa that began in 2016, Costco only accepts Visa credit cards for in-store purchases. The accepted payment methods at Costco warehouses include:
- Visa credit cards
- Debit cards (including Mastercard debit)
- Cash
- Checks
- Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards
- Costco Shop Cards
Online Shopping Experience
The rules are more flexible when shopping on Costco.com. For online purchases, Costco accepts:
- All major credit cards (including Mastercard)
- Visa
- American Express
- Discover
- Costco Shop Cards
Note: Payment policies vary by country. For example, Costco locations in Canada exclusively accept Mastercard credit cards instead of Visa.
Why the Visa Exclusivity?
Costco's exclusive partnership with Visa is part of their business strategy to:
- Negotiate better transaction fees
- Offer enhanced rewards through their co-branded credit card
- Maintain lower prices for members
The Costco Anywhere Visa Card
For frequent Costco shoppers, the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi offers several benefits:
- 4% cash back on gas purchases
- 3% on restaurants and travel
- 2% on Costco purchases
- 1% on all other purchases
Alternatives for Mastercard Users 💳
If you primarily use Mastercard, you have several options:
- Use a Debit Card: If you have a Mastercard debit card, you can use it just like a Visa debit card in-store
- Pay with Cash or Check: Traditional payment methods are always accepted
- Purchase Costco Shop Cards: Buy these online using your Mastercard for in-store use
- Shop Online: Use your Mastercard credit card for purchases on Costco's website
- Consider a Visa Card: Apply for a Visa credit card for direct purchases
For more information on Costco's payment policies, you can visit their official website. Understanding these payment options can help you make the most of your Costco membership and enjoy the savings and benefits that come with it! 🛍️