Understanding Costco's Credit Card Policy
Costco, one of the largest wholesale retailers in the world, has a unique payment policy when it comes to credit cards. Unlike many retailers that accept various credit cards, Costco maintains specific partnerships that influence their payment acceptance.
The Exclusive Partnership with Visa
As of 2016, Costco has an exclusive partnership with Visa in the United States. This partnership was established after Costco ended its previous agreement with American Express. The decision to partner exclusively with Visa was primarily driven by lower transaction fees, allowing Costco to maintain its competitive pricing strategy.
Accepted Payment Methods
In-Store Options
- Visa credit cards (any issuer)
- Costco Shop Cards
- Cash
- Checks
- Debit cards
- Electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards
- Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay)
Online Shopping Options
When shopping on Costco.com, members have additional payment flexibility:
- All Visa credit cards
- Mastercard credit cards
- Discover credit cards
- PayPal
- Costco Shop Cards
- Debit cards
Note: American Express cards are not accepted either in-store or online.
Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
The Costco Anywhere Visa® Card offers special benefits:
Cash Back Rewards
- 4% on eligible gas purchases (up to $7,000 per year)
- 3% on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
- 2% on all Costco purchases
- 1% on all other purchases
This card serves as both a Costco membership ID and a credit card.
International Locations
Payment acceptance varies by country:
- Canada: Mastercard is the exclusive credit card partner
- Japan: Credit cards from multiple networks are accepted
- United Kingdom: American Express and Mastercard are accepted
Business Payment Options
Business members can use:
- Business checks
- Business Visa credit cards
- ACH payments (for certain business services)
- Electronic invoicing options
Tips for Costco Shoppers
- Consider the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card: Take advantage of the cash back rewards program
- Plan Your Payment Method: If you don't have a Visa card, prepare alternative payment methods
- Check Online Options: Consider online shopping for more payment flexibility
For further reading on credit card benefits and comparisons, visit:
Remember that regardless of payment method, a valid Costco membership is required to make purchases at warehouse locations, with the exception of pharmacy services and alcohol sales in certain states.