Many people decide to join Costco when their families start to grow and they're feeding perpetually hungry kids. As a senior, you may not be in the same boat. If you have kids, perhaps they left the nest years ago, and you're now living solo or with a partner.
But that doesn't mean you can't benefit from a Costco membership. Here are a few reasons why joining as a senior makes financial sense.
1. Low-cost medication and supplements
Healthcare and medication can be a huge expense for seniors. One benefit of being a Costco member is getting access to affordable medications through the company's pharmacies.
Now, you don't have to be a Costco member to fill prescriptions at its pharmacies. But you typically do need a paid membership to buy vitamins and supplements in bulk. Many seniors are advised to take these to aid with things like joint pain and bone strength. And loading up at Costco could result in major savings.
2. Access to travel services
Seniors who are retired may have more free time to travel than working folks. And it could pay to join Costco to get access to the company's travel deals alone.
Costco offers a host of vacation packages, and some of those destinations may be ones you've always wanted to visit. The nice thing about using Costco to book travel is that you might get more than a lower credit card tab -- you might also get the help of a travel specialist who can help you choose the right trip based on your needs.
3. Free tech support for electronics
Being a senior doesn't automatically mean you're not tech-savvy. But some seniors struggle with today's newfangled technology.
Buying electronics at Costco means you get access to free tech support. So if you're lost trying to figure out your new phone or TV, Costco's got you covered. Plus, Costco extends a manufacturer warranty for up to two years when you buy electronics there.
4. Low-cost household staples
Many seniors find that money is tight since they're retired and are no longer earning a paycheck. The upside of joining Costco is getting access to bulk household supplies. The result? Big savings and a means of stretching your IRA or 401(k) balance.
Of course, you can also save money by buying groceries in bulk at Costco. But as a senior, you may not have enough people in your household to use them up before they go bad. The good thing about household staples like tissues, toilet paper, and cleaning supplies is that you're not up against a ticking clock.
5. Affordable gas
Another benefit of being a Costco member is getting access to lower-cost gas. As a senior, you may no longer have a job to commute to. But that doesn't mean you're not still driving all over town.
In fact, if you're retired, you may do your fair share of driving to places like parks and trails to stay active and busy. Filling up at Costco could be much easier on your wallet.
There's much to be gained by getting a Costco membership when you're older. Unfortunately, though, Costco doesn't offer senior discounts. You'll need to prepare to pay $60 for a basic membership or $120 for an Executive membership. You may find, however, that the savings you enjoy can more than make up for those costs.
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FAQs
As of 2024, Costco does not offer a senior discount. Both membership fees and in-store items are priced the same for seniors and younger people. Costco.
Does Costco offer a senior discount membership? ›
As of 2024, Costco does not offer a senior discount. Both membership fees and in-store items are priced the same for seniors and younger people. Costco.
How to get a $20 Costco membership? ›
Here's how to snag the deal: Purchase your Costco membership through StackSocial, and make sure you provide a valid email address. Within two weeks, you'll receive your $20 Digital Costco Shop Card via email. Once you receive the digital shop card, you can use it to make Costco purchases online or in person.
How to get a Costco membership for free? ›
Costco doesn't offer free or discounted memberships, but rest assured that the cost of membership can be recovered quickly thanks to massive price savings once you start shopping.
Can I join Costco if I am retired? ›
Secondly, Wadan cites Costco's “risk free 100% satisfaction guarantee” return policy that helps give retirees or anyone living on a limited income the peace of mind that they won't be wasting their money. With that in mind, here are some other reasons why a Costco membership is worth it for retired folks.
What is the reason for Costco membership? ›
Save up to 80% on Popular Medications. Use your Costco membership to get savings on brand name and generic medications for yourself, your family and your pets with the Costco Member Prescription Program (CMPP).
How do I get a $30 Costco membership online? ›
When you join as a new member online at costco.com and enroll in auto renewal of your annual membership, you'll receive a free $30 Digital Costco Shop Card.
How do I avoid Costco membership fees? ›
Here are three:
- Shop online without a Costco membership. ...
- Use a Costco gift card without a membership. ...
- Visit the Costco warehouse as the guest of a member.
No, Costco does not offer a free trial for new memberships. However, they do have a generous return policy, so you can cancel your membership at any time for a full refund. This gives you a risk-free way to try out Costco and see if it is right for you.
How to go Costco without membership? ›
If you're given a Costco Shop Card, which is Costco's version of a gift card, you'll be allowed to enter the store and shop there to your heart's content. Usually, you're asked to show a membership card at the door when you approach a Costco store. Show your Shop Card, and you'll be allowed in.
No, Costco memberships only work at Costco stores and online at Costco.com. The same goes for Sam's Club, where membership is limited to Sam's Club's stores and the e-commerce platform.
How much is a Costco membership for seniors in 2024? ›
With an annual fee of $60, seniors and adults alike can: Shop at every Costco location. Enjoy discounted prices for various products. Purchase everyday items through the brand's website.
What is better, Costco or Sam's Club? ›
* Overall, Costco members report higher satisfaction * More Costco locations than Sam's Club * If you're looking to save the most money Sam's Club is the winner * Better overall quality and customer experience goes to Costco XO, Lora CHECKOUT my website: LORAfied.com for more!
What are the new rules for Costco? ›
Costco recently started asking for shoppers' membership cards along with a photo ID at the self-checkout registers, the same policy as regular checkout lanes, to crack down. “We don't feel it's right that non-members receive the same benefits and pricing as our members,” Costco said in announcing the change.
Can you use someone else's Costco card? ›
Can other people use my membership card? The Costco membership card is non-transferable, but there are several ways to share the experience with family and friends. Anyone with a card can bring up to two guests to the Warehouse during each visit. Keep in mind that purchasing items is exclusive to Costco members.
Is Costco giving free membership? ›
Costco doesn't offer free or discounted memberships, but rest assured that the cost of membership can be recovered quickly thanks to massive price savings once you start shopping.
Is the $60 Costco membership worth it? ›
The entry-level cost of joining Costco is $60.00 per year. If paying the 5% surcharge on your purchases is less than $60, it would not make sense for you to join Costco just to avoid it. You'd be better off doing your online shopping as a non-member and paying the slightly higher prices.
Can you get a discount on Costco membership? ›
While Costco doesn't offer free or discounted memberships, we do provide an exclusive military offer to join Costco as a new member and receive a Costco Shop Card!
What is the lowest Costco membership? ›
Costco membership is $60 a year. An Executive Membership is an additional $60 upgrade fee a year. Each includes a free Household Card. Please include sales tax in all applicable states.
How much is Costco membership in 2024? ›
A basic Costco membership costs $60, while an Executive membership costs $120. An Executive membership gives you 2% cash back on your Costco purchases.
The Executive membership also offers additional savings on Costco services like their bottled water delivery and pet insurance. If you buy your home or auto insurance through Costco, the Executive membership will get you some exclusive benefits such as roadside and lockout assistance.
