Sam's Club accepts multiple payment methods both in-store and online
You can pay for your Sam's Club membership and purchases using credit cards, debit cards, cash, checks, and Sam's Club gift cards at physical locations. Online, Sam's Club accepts major credit and debit cards, PayPal, and Sam's Club gift cards. The payment method you choose depends on where you shop — in-warehouse or on the website — and your personal preference.
Your membership renewal bill can be paid through the same methods when your annual or monthly membership term ends. Sam's Club sends renewal notices before your membership expires, giving you time to decide whether to renew and which payment method to use.
Key Takeaways
- In-warehouse shopping accepts cash, debit cards, credit cards, checks, and Sam's Club gift cards at checkout.
- Online purchases at samsclub.com accept credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, and Sam's Club gift cards.
- Sam's Club membership renewals use the same payment methods as regular purchases, and you receive notice before your membership expires.
- Sam's Club Mastercard members earn rewards on purchases, but you can pay with any accepted method regardless of which card you carry.
Payment methods at Sam's Club warehouse locations
When you shop in a Sam's Club warehouse, you can pay at the checkout registers with cash, debit cards, credit cards, personal checks, and Sam's Club gift cards. You must present a valid membership card to enter the warehouse and complete your purchase.
Sam's Club accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover credit cards. Debit cards from major networks work the same way as credit cards at the register. If you pay by check, the cashier will verify your membership and process the check like any other retail location.
Sam's Club gift cards can be used for both membership fees and purchases. If you have a Sam's Club Mastercard, you can use it at checkout, though it is not required — you can pay with any accepted method.
Paying for purchases on samsclub.com
The Sam's Club website accepts credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover), debit cards, PayPal, and Sam's Club gift cards. You enter your payment information during checkout before your order ships.
If you use PayPal, you will be directed to log into your PayPal account to authorize the payment. Your order confirmation will show which payment method was charged. Online orders typically ship within one to two business days, depending on your location and the items ordered.
You do not need to be a member to browse samsclub.com, but you must have an active membership to make a purchase. Your membership status is verified when you enter your membership number at checkout.
Renewing your Sam's Club membership
Sam's Club memberships renew annually or monthly, depending on which plan you chose. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail or through email before your membership expires, typically 30 days in advance.
You can renew using any payment method accepted for regular purchases — cash, debit card, credit card, check, or gift card in-warehouse, or credit card, debit card, PayPal, or gift card online. You can also renew at the membership desk inside any Sam's Club warehouse.
If your membership lapses before you renew, you will not be able to enter the warehouse or make purchases online until your new membership is active. Renewal is when ready when you pay, so you can shop right away.
Sam's Club Mastercard rewards and payment
The Sam's Club Mastercard is a credit card that earns rewards on Sam's Club purchases and other spending. You earn cash back on may have access to purchases, with higher rewards rates for Sam's Club warehouse and gas purchases.
Using the Sam's Club Mastercard does not change how you pay — you still swipe or insert the card at checkout like any other credit card. The rewards are added to your account and can be redeemed as a statement credit or cash back.
You are not required to use the Sam's Club Mastercard to shop at Sam's Club. You can pay with any accepted payment method, and non-members can still open a Mastercard account if they meet the credit card issuer's requirements.
What to do if your payment is declined
If your payment is declined at checkout in-warehouse, the cashier will let you know and ask for a different payment method. Common reasons include insufficient funds, an expired card, or a card flagged for fraud by your bank.
If your payment is declined online, you will see an error message before your order is placed. Check that your card number, expiration date, and billing address are entered correctly. If the problem continues, contact your bank to confirm the card is active and has available funds.
If you are renewing your membership and your payment is declined, you can try a different payment method or visit the membership desk at your local warehouse to renew in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my Sam's Club membership with a different payment method each year?
Yes. Each time you renew, you can choose any accepted payment method. You are not locked into the method you used for your initial membership purchase.
Does Sam's Club charge a fee for paying by check?
No. Checks are processed at no additional charge, just like cash or card payments. The cashier will verify your membership and process the check normally.
Can I use a Sam's Club gift card to pay my membership renewal?
Yes. Gift cards can be used for both membership fees and regular purchases. If the gift card balance is less than your renewal fee, you can combine it with another payment method.
What happens if I pay online but my order doesn't ship?
Your payment is processed when your order is placed, not when it ships. If your order is cancelled, the charge will be reversed to your payment method within three to five business days, depending on your bank.
Can I update my payment method for an existing membership?
You can change your payment method when you renew your membership. To update payment information for an active membership before renewal, contact Sam's Club customer service or visit your local warehouse membership desk.