Which Credit Cards Costco Accept?
Costco accepts a limited but practical set of payment methods. In the United States, the Costco Anywhere Visa is the primary card, but Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are also accepted both in-store and online.
More from this site
Keep reading the latest coverage
Debit cards and digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay work as well, typically routing through the major networks listed above. Costco does not accept personal checks at the register, and cash is always an option. The key takeaway is that if your card carries a Visa, Mastercard, Amex, or Discover logo, it will likely work at checkout.
The Costco AnyWhere Visa
The Costco AnyWhere Visa is the store's co-branded card, issued by Citi. It is the only private-label credit card Costco offers, and it is designed specifically for warehouse and online purchases. Cardholders earn 4% back on restaurant and travel purchases, 3% on gas and dining, 2% on Costco purchases, and 1% on everything else. The card has no annual fee for the first year, and the fee structure has remained straightforward since its launch.
Which Cards Are Accepted at Costco In-Store?
Costco's in-store card terminals are configured for a specific set of networks. The table below summarizes the major options.
| Network | Accepted | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa | Yes | Includes Costco AnyWhere Visa |
| Mastercard | Yes | Works at registers and gas stations |
| American Express | Yes | Accepted, but with occasional third-party surcharges |
| Discover | Yes | Widely accepted in the U.S. |
| Debit/PIN | Yes | Linked to Visa or Mastercard networks |
| Cash | Yes | Always accepted |
Online and International Acceptance
At Costco.com, the same networks apply. Online purchases typically run through Visa, Mastercard, Amex, and Discover. International warehouses have slightly different arrangements, and travelers should verify local acceptance before traveling, as some countries may not support Amex or Discover as widely.
Digital Wallets and Mobile Pay
Costco supports Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. These tap-to-pay options work by linking to an eligible credit or debit card on the accepted networks, so if your phone wallet holds a Visa or Mastercard, it will process at the point-of-sale terminal.
Why Card Choice Matters at Costco
Choosing the right card can influence your rewards on large warehouse trips. The Costco AnyWhere Visa is the strongest fit for the store's ecosystem, but a high earn rate on the Mastercard or Amex network can also deliver strong value depending on your spending habits. The best card is the one that maximizes your rewards on the categories you already buy most.