This year Costco may have increased its membership fees, but Costco always presents the public with compelling reasons to continue shopping. Beyond everyday wholesale pricing, membership also entitles cardholders to the Costco Next program, which allows them to purchase at a discount directly through Costco Next suppliers. You can also enjoy a really cheap hot dog and soda combo before or after your shopping trip. In fact, Costco’s joys may not be limited exclusively to card-carrying members. Get to know the Costco Shop Card.
What is the Costco Shop Card?
The card, also called the Costco Cash Card, is an alternative to paying with cash or credit card at Costco. Like a gift card, it contains a stored monetary value that never expires, and the value can be loaded onto the card indefinitely.
The card can be used as payment at any Costco location in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, as well as online at Costco.com and Costco.ca. Only members can purchase this card, but – and this is very important – it can be used by both members and non-members, both in store and online. This allows anyone to shop at Costco without paying annual membership fees, provided they have a connection to someone who can buy them that card.
Related: Costco Next may be the brand’s coolest hidden membership perk
In addition to the Costco Shop Card, there is also a digital Shop Card that is sent to the recipient via email. Shoppers can use it the same way they would a physical card, either redeeming it via smartphone or printing it out and bringing it into the store.
How to use the Costco Shop Card
The Shop Card can be used like cash to purchase products at Costco, and like a gift card, you don’t have to use the entire balance at once; You can spend a little and then check your remaining balance online.
Some Reddit users say that the store only honors the Shop Card up to its value limit, meaning a non-member cannot use a credit card for the balance. Some Costco locations require non-members to present the Shop Card at the customer service counter before purchasing, and occasionally users report that the cashier is unaware of the Shop Card protocol, which requires entering a generic membership number at checkout. But for many buyers, these small hurdles are worth it.
For non-members who enjoy visiting the store, the cards can also be used for an annual membership. However, they cannot be used to shop at Costco Next.
While the Costco Shop Card is non-refundable and generally cannot be redeemed for cash, its balance is non-refundable may can be converted into cash in certain states under certain conditions. Here is a list of states that require this withdrawal by law:
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Balance under $10: APPROX
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Balance under $5: CO, HI, ME, MA, MT, NJ, OR, WA
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Balance under $2.50: TX
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Balance under $1: RI, VT
And if you’re gifting the Costco Shop Card this holiday season, be warned: The store is not responsible for replacing lost or stolen cards. If you plan to give it to someone who is forgetful, perhaps send the digital version as the emailed card can easily be reprinted.
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