Can You Use a Friend's Costco Membership Card?

You've likely heard people rave about Costco. The retailer offers discounted pricing on everyday essentials like groceries, clothing, household items, and toiletries. But you must invest in a membership to shop in-club, which requires you to pay an annual membership fee.

The best deals at Costco are only available to paying members. You may wonder if you can use a friend or family member's Costco membership card to shop these exclusive deals so you can keep more money in the bank. Here's what you need to know.

Only members can make purchases at Costco clubs

You typically need to be a member to check out at your local Costco club. Your membership card is verified soon after you walk in the door. In addition, the retailer asks members to present their membership cards before they checkout. That means you can't use your friend's Costco card. You should become a member if you want to shop at your local club regularly.

If you're hoping to get a feel for what discounts the retailer offers, you may want to ask a loved one who is a member if you can join them the next time they shop. You will need your own membership card to check out, but you could ask your friend to pay for your items and then pay them back. Doing this will allow you to access the low, member-exclusive prices.

This strategy may work if you want to get a feel for what Costco offers before you join. Members can bring children and two adult guests when they shop in-club. You may wish to join once you see what products the retailer offers and how affordable its prices are.

You're welcome to shop at Costco.com

Did you know that non-members can shop at Costco.com? You can buy many of the items sold on the retailer's website. However, you won't pay the same prices that members pay in-club. Only members get access to the best deals.

Plus, you'll pay a 5% surcharge at checkout. That may not be a big deal if you place a small order, but a larger order could really hit your wallet. You'll have to decide whether this additional expense is worth it or if it's best to invest in a membership. To avoid paying this surcharge, you can become a Costco member before finalizing the online checkout process.

Get more value from your membership

If you're thinking about joining Costco, now is a good time. Depending on the membership you select, you'll pay $60 or $120 to join. However, beginning Sept. 1, 2024, membership fees will increase from $60 to $65 for a basic membership and $120 to $130 for the Executive membership.

You can save by becoming a member before September. But it's important to review the benefits offered before you join so you can maximize the membership perks.

Our No. 1 strategy to save money at Costco is to pay for your purchases with a credit card that earns rewards. It can be a win for your wallet to earn cash back when stocking up on household essentials. Check out our list of the best credit cards for Costco to learn more.