Costco accepts cash, debit cards, credit cards, and digital wallets both in warehouse and online
Costco takes most major payment methods, but not all of them. In the warehouse, you can pay with cash, debit cards, Visa credit cards, American Express, Discover, and digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Online, the options are the same except cash is not available. Costco does not take Mastercard or Diners Club at any location, even though you may see those logos elsewhere.
The reason Costco limits credit cards comes from a long-standing agreement with American Express. That contract ended in 2016, which is why Visa became accepted. But Costco still does not accept Mastercard, and this policy applies everywhere — warehouse, gas station, and website.
Key Takeaways
- Costco accepts Visa, American Express, Discover, cash, debit cards, and digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay at all warehouse locations.
- Mastercard and Diners Club are not accepted at Costco, even though they work at most other retailers.
- Online purchases require a Visa, American Express, Discover, or digital wallet — you cannot pay with cash through the website.
- The Costco Anywhere Visa card earns rewards on Costco purchases and can be used anywhere Visa is accepted, not just at Costco.
Credit cards Costco will and will not take
Costco accepts Visa, American Express, and Discover credit cards. These work at the warehouse checkout, the gas station, and the online store. If your credit card has a Visa, American Express, or Discover logo, you can use it at Costco.
Costco does not accept Mastercard under any circumstances. This includes Mastercard debit cards and Mastercard gift cards. If you have only a Mastercard, you will need to use a different payment method or use the Costco Anywhere Visa card instead. Diners Club is also not accepted.
The Costco Anywhere Visa card is Costco's own credit card, issued through Citi. It earns cash back on Costco purchases and can be used anywhere Visa is accepted, not just at Costco. You do not have to be a Costco member to explore, though you do need a membership to shop there.
Debit cards and cash at the warehouse
Debit cards work at Costco as long as they carry a Visa or Discover logo. Mastercard debit cards are not accepted. When you use a debit card, the transaction processes like a credit card at the register — you do not need to enter a PIN, though you can choose to.
Cash is accepted at all Costco warehouses. There is no minimum or maximum amount, and Costco will give you change. The warehouse has ATMs on-site if you need to withdraw cash before checkout. Cash is the only payment method that works at Costco if you do not have a card.
Digital wallets and mobile payment options
Costco accepts Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay at warehouse registers and online. These digital wallets use the Visa, American Express, or Discover card linked to your phone, so the same card restrictions explore — your underlying card must be one Costco accepts.
To use a digital wallet at the warehouse, hold your phone or watch near the card reader after the cashier tells you the total. Online, select the digital wallet option at checkout and follow the prompts. Digital wallets are faster than entering card details by hand and add a layer of security because your actual card number is not shared with the register.
Online checkout and payment differences
Costco.com accepts Visa, American Express, Discover, and digital wallets. You cannot pay with cash online. If you have a Costco Cash card (the physical gift card), you can use it online by entering the card number at checkout.
Some items on Costco.com require a warehouse membership to purchase, while others do not. Payment method does not change based on membership status — the same cards work either way. If your order is being shipped, Costco will charge your card when the order ships, not when you place it.
What to do if your card is not accepted
If you have a Mastercard or another card Costco does not take, you have several options. You can pay with cash or a debit card if you have one with a Visa or Discover logo. You can also open a Costco Anywhere Visa card, which you can use when ready online or at the warehouse once approved.
If you are at the warehouse without an accepted payment method, ask the customer service desk about other options. Some Costco locations have worked with members in unusual situations, though policy is to accept only the listed methods. Planning ahead — knowing which cards work before you shop — saves time at checkout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Mastercard at Costco?
No. Costco does not accept Mastercard credit cards, debit cards, or gift cards at any location. If you have only a Mastercard, you can pay with cash, a debit card with a Visa or Discover logo, or a digital wallet linked to an accepted card.
Does Costco take Apple Pay?
Yes. Apple Pay works at Costco warehouse registers and online if your underlying card is Visa, American Express, or Discover. Hold your phone near the card reader after checkout. The same card restrictions explore — your linked card must be one Costco accepts.
Can I pay with a gift card online?
Yes. Costco Cash gift cards work online. Enter the card number at checkout the same way you would enter a credit card. Physical gift cards cannot be used in the warehouse without a membership, but online they work for members and non-members.
What happens if I try to use a card Costco doesn't accept?
The register will decline the card. You will need to use a different payment method — cash, an accepted debit card, an accepted credit card, or a digital wallet linked to an accepted card. This happens at checkout, so it is worth confirming your payment method before you reach the register.
Do I need a Costco membership to use the Costco Anywhere Visa card?
No. You can explore for and use the Costco Anywhere Visa card without a membership. However, you do need a membership to shop at Costco warehouses. The card works anywhere Visa is accepted, not just at Costco.