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In September, the cost of a Costco membership went up for the first time in years. Now, you’re looking at $65 a year for a Gold Star membership or $130 for an Executive membership — this option gives you 2% cash back on purchases.

Despite this recent fee hike, a Costco membership could still offer a lot of value. And if you’ve been on the fence about joining, you may want to consider signing up in November specifically. Here’s why.

1. You can score great deals on holiday purchases

Many people start their holiday shopping in November, either because they like to capitalize on Black Friday or snag the deals that are typically available in the weeks leading up to it. If you join Costco this month, you’ll get access to the store’s holiday specials. And those run the gamut from jewelry to electronics to apparel.

In fact, Costco already has a bunch of holiday deals available online and in stores. The sooner you sign up, the sooner you can check them out before they disappear.

2. You can save money on essentials at a time when your household bills are higher

November can be an expensive month for a lot of people. Between holiday gifts, decorations, and travel, you may find that your credit card bills are higher during this time of the year than any other.

The great thing about joining Costco is that you might start paying a lot less for things like groceries, cleaning supplies, paper products, and other items you use at home regularly. You should also know that Costco sells some of the cheapest gas in town. And its fuel is TOP TIER certified, which means it’s designed to lead to better engine performance.

At a time when your bills are high, the savings on these essentials could come in handy. Plus, if you use the right credit card for your Costco purchases, you might save even more. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco shoppers.

3. You can serve up a hearty Thanksgiving dinner without having to do the work

Some people love hosting Thanksgiving dinner, while others feel as if they’re stuck doing it despite having no desire to spend hours tinkering in the kitchen. If you fall into the latter camp, a Costco membership could come in super handy this month.

Costco sells a complete Thanksgiving dinner for eight people that normally sells for $229.99. But right now, you can pre-order it for just $179.99.

It includes a five-pound turkey, two pounds of mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, stuffing, sweet corn, and green bean casserole. It also includes 12 gourmet dinner rolls, cranberry relish, and apple cobbler and pumpkin pie for dessert.

If your mouth is watering already, sign up for Costco and place your order before this package runs out — which it has the potential to do. This way, all you have to do is defrost everything and set the table.

Joining Costco could be one of the smartest decisions you’ll make this month. Sign up for a membership now to take advantage of holiday deals, save money on essentials, and, if you’re so inclined, make Thanksgiving dinner a cinch.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

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The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.