The Ultimate Guide to Using Mastercard Credit Cards at Costco Anywhere

Costco is renowned for offering quality products at competitive prices to its members. While the primary credit card accepted at Costco is the Costco Anywhere Visa Card, it’s important to understand the payment options available for those who prefer to use Mastercard credit cards. In this article, we will explore the accepted Mastercard credit card options at Costco, ensuring you have the necessary information when it comes to your payment choices.

Section 1: Primary Mastercard Credit Card Acceptance

Costco warehouses primarily accept Visa credit cards, with the Costco Anywhere Visa Card being the primary credit card option for members. However, certain exceptions and alternative options are available for Mastercard users.

Section 2: Costco Online Shopping and Mastercard

For online purchases made on the Costco website, Costco.com, Mastercard credit cards are accepted as a form of payment. This provides Mastercard users with the convenience of using their preferred credit card for their online Costco shopping.

Section 3: Costco Anywhere Mastercard Credit Cards by Citi

While the primary credit card accepted at Costco warehouses is the Costco Anywhere Visa Mastercard Credit Card, it’s important to highlight that this card is co-branded with Visa and not Mastercard Credit Cards. As mentioned in previous articles, the Costco Anywhere Visa Card is exclusively designed for Costco members and offers various benefits and rewards.

Section 4: Alternative Payment Methods at Costco Warehouses

In addition to credit cards, Costco warehouses also accept alternative payment methods, providing flexibility for members. These payment options include:

1. Debit Cards: Costco accepts debit cards, including Mastercard Credit Cards, as a form of payment. When using a Mastercard debit card, the fee is deducted directly from your linked checking account, providing a convenient and secure payment option.
2. Costco Cash Cards: Costco Mastercard Credit Cards, which are essentially gift cards, are widely accepted at Costco warehouses. These cards can be loaded with a specific dollar amount and used for purchases at any Costco location.
3. Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Cards: Costco warehouses also accept Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards for eligible purchases. EBT cards are issued to individuals or families participating in government assistance programs and can be used to purchase qualifying food items at Costco.

Section 5: Exceptions and International Costco Locations

While Visa is the primary Mastercard Credit Card accepted at Costco warehouses in the United States and Puerto Rico, there may be exceptions and international differences regarding Mastercard Credit Card acceptance. It’s advisable to check with specific Costco locations or contact customer service to inquire about the accepted payment options, including Mastercard, in those regions.

Section 6: Key Features of the Costco Anywhere Visa Card

Let’s explore the key features and benefits of the Costco Anywhere Visa Card:

1. Cash Back Rewards: The Costco Anywhere Visa Card allows you to earn cash back rewards on eligible purchases. This includes 4% cash back on eligible gas purchases, including gasoline at Costco (up to $7,000 per year, then 1% thereafter). You can earn 3% cash back on restaurant and eligible travel purchases, 2% cash back on all Costco purchases, and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
2. No Annual Fee for Costco Members: As a Costco member, you will not be charged an annual fee for the Costco Anywhere Visa Card. This helps you maximize the benefits of the card without incurring additional costs.
3. Additional Benefits: The Costco Anywhere Mastercard Credit Card provides additional benefits such as damage and theft protection for eligible purchases, extended warranty coverage, and worldwide car rental insurance. These perks offer added value and peace of mind when using the card for your purchases.
4. Digital Accessibility: The Costco Anywhere Visa Card offers digital accessibility through the Citi mobile app and online account management. This allows you to conveniently monitor your transactions, make payments, and access your account information on the go.

Section 7: Applying for the Costco Anywhere Visa Card

If you are a Costco member and interested in obtaining the Costco Anywhere Visa Card, here are the steps to apply:

1. Costco Membership: Ensure that you have an active Costco membership. The Costco Anywhere Visa Card is exclusively available to Costco members.
2. Visit the Citi Website or Warehouse: You can apply for the Costco Anywhere Visa Card online through the Citi website or visit the membership desk at a Costco warehouse to complete an application in person.
3. Application Process: The application process typically involves providing personal information, including your name, address, employment details, and financial information. Citi will review your application and determine your eligibility for the card.

Section 9: Using the Costco Anywhere Visa Card

Once you are approved and receive your Costco Anywhere Visa Card, you can start using it for purchases. Here are a few points to keep in mind:

1. Accepted Locations: The Costco Anywhere Visa Card is accepted at all Costco warehouses worldwide. You can also use it to make purchases at other merchants that accept Visa credit cards.
2. Cash Back Rewards Redemption: The cashback rewards earned with the Costco Anywhere Visa Card are distributed once a year in the form of an annual reward certificate. You can redeem this certificate at Costco warehouses for merchandise or cash it at a Costco warehouse checkout.
3. Paying Your Balance: It’s important to manage your credit card responsibly by making timely payments. You can pay your Costco Anywhere Visa Card balance online, through the Citi mobile app, or by mail.

Section 8: Conclusion

While the primary credit card accepted at Costco warehouses is the Costco Anywhere Mastercard Credit Card, Mastercard credit cards are accepted for online purchases on Costco.com. In addition, Costco warehouses accept alternative payment methods such as Mastercard debit cards, Costco Cash Cards, and EBT cards. Remember to check for any exceptions or international differences regarding Mastercard acceptance at Costco, depending on the location.

The Costco Anywhere Mastercard Credit Card by Citi is the primary credit card option for Costco members, providing a host of benefits and rewards. With its generous cash-back rewards program, no annual fee for Costco members, and additional perks, the Costco Anywhere Mastercard Credit Card offers a valuable payment option for your Costco purchases. If you’re a Costco member, consider applying for the Costco Anywhere Visa Card to take advantage of its features and enhance your shopping experience.