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Many shoppers join warehouse clubs like Costco to access members-only deals. Getting a discount when buying groceries, clothes, household goods, and electronics can be a win for your wallet. But you have to pay to join Costco.

If you’re on the fence about joining, I suggest you become a member to experience the experience firsthand. I’ll also share a few pointers to maximize your Costco membership and explain why it’s worthwhile to join even if you’re unsure if you’ll benefit from it.

Costco’s 100% satisfaction guarantee

Subscriptions and membership costs can add up quickly. If you’re considering becoming a Costco member but are worried about shelling out cash for yet another membership, don’t let the cost scare you.

Why? Costco has a 100% membership satisfaction guarantee. The retailer will refund your membership fees if you decide to cancel your membership. If you’re interested in checking out what the warehouse club retailer offers, it’s worthwhile to join.

Chances are you’ll be happy with the deals and the variety of products and services that Costco offers. But you can feel confident knowing that you can cancel your membership and get your money back if you’re unsatisfied.

I, too, was a long-time skeptic, but I gave in and joined this past August. I’ve been a Costco member for over two months now and have yet to set foot in my local club. But I’ve already shopped several deals at Costco.com. These were all purchases that I planned to make anyway, and I saved money on them.

Want to earn cash back on your Costco haul? Use a cash back rewards credit card at checkout. Click here to explore our list of the top cash back credit cards to see how easy it is to earn cash rewards when you shop.

Here’s how much you’ll pay to be a Costco member

Now that you know about Costco’s membership guarantee, you may wonder how much you can’t expect to pay to join. Costco has two membership options, and their costs differ.

A standard Gold Star membership costs $65 per year. The retailer’s premium membership option, Executive, costs $130 annually. The biggest benefit of being an Executive member is the ability to earn 2% rewards on eligible Costco purchases, including Costco Travel bookings. As an Executive member, you can earn up to $1,250 in yearly rewards.

An Executive membership is worth it for those who spend at least $3,250 per year at Costco. With this annual spend, you’ll earn $65 back in rewards, allowing you to break even on the added cost of a premium membership. And shoppers who spend even more will earn enough rewards to cover the extra membership cost, plus make some money back.

This is an easy way to earn rewards when you shop

Costco offers great deals on essentials like groceries, clothes, toiletries, and household goods. Shopping Costco deals is one way to keep more money in your checking account.

You can also save money by earning rewards when you swipe your credit card at checkout. With the right card in your wallet, it’s easy to get rewarded when you shop. Want to save even more? Click here to see our list of the best credit cards that offer big rewards at Costco.

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!

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
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.Natasha Gabrielle 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.