Shopping at Costco with Amex? Here's What You Need to Know

Costco is a shopping haven for many, known for its unbeatable prices on bulk items and high-quality products. But when it comes to checkout, you might wonder about your payment options. Can you use your American Express card at Costco? The short answer is no. Costco exclusively accepts Visa credit cards at their warehouse locations.

Why Costco Doesn't Accept Amex

Historically, Costco partnered with American Express but made a shift to Visa in 2016. This decision was driven by a favorable agreement with Visa that allowed Costco to lower transaction fees. By reducing these fees, Costco can pass the savings onto you, the customer, with lower product prices. While this is good news for Costco members overall, it might be a snag if Amex is your go-to card.

Payment Options at Costco

While American Express won't work in-store, you have several alternative payment methods:

  • Visa credit and debit cards
  • Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
  • Cash
  • Checks
  • Costco gift cards (known as Costco Shop Cards)
  • PIN-based debit cards
  • Some electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards can be used for eligible items.

For online shopping at Costco.com, the payment options extend to include Visa, MasterCard, and Discover, offering a bit more flexibility.

Exploring Alternatives to Maximize Savings

If you're an Amex fan, you might be concerned about how to maximize your Costco savings without it. Consider these alternatives:

  • Obtain a Visa Card: You may opt for the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi, which earns 4% cash back on eligible gas purchases and 3% on restaurant and eligible travel purchases. This can be a great way to keep earning rewards similar to those offered by Amex.

  • Use Amex for Extras: Use your American Express card for purchases outside Costco, like dining or travel, where it might offer superior cash-back rates or travel perks.

Bridging the Gap with Financial Assistance

If you're reorganizing your financial strategy and looking for smarter ways to handle expenses, you might explore other financial tools and resources:

  • Government aid programs can provide significant support if you're facing economic challenges. Programs like SNAP offer food assistance, housing vouchers can ease rent burdens, and LIHEAP can help with utility bills.

  • Debt relief options vary from consolidations to negotiations, helping manage or reduce what you owe effectively.

  • Educational grants are worth exploring if returning to school could enhance your professional qualifications and, subsequently, your earning potential. Grants provide funds that don't need to be repaid, a great relief for many students.

The right financial maneuver can not only enhance your savings at Costco but also improve your overall financial health. Here's a handy list of resources that can amplify your economic resilience:

📌 Financial Assistance Programs & Resources

  • 💳 Visa Credit Solutions: Apply for a Visa card to enjoy Costco shopping benefits.

  • 🔄 Debt Consolidation Services: Streamline your debts with one manageable payment.

  • 🏠 Government Housing Assistance: Explore programs for rent and mortgage support.

  • 🍽️ SNAP Benefits: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for qualified individuals.

  • 📚 Educational Grants: Scholarships and grants for returning or new students.

  • 🔥 LIHEAP: Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program for energy cost relief.

Optimizing your financial tools can help you make the most out of every shopping trip—whether at Costco or elsewhere. Consider these options to ensure you're getting the best deals and making smart money moves year-round.