10 Best Credit Cards for Costco Deals and Rewards

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated November 10, 2025

Shopping at Costco can stretch a budget further when the right credit card is in hand. With options that offer cash back, flexible rewards, and perks tailored to frequent warehouse shoppers, certain cards stand out for maximizing savings on gas, groceries, and everyday purchases. This guide highlights the 10 best credit cards for Costco deals and rewards, showing which ones deliver the most value throughout the year.

  • Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

    The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card focuses on travelers who want strong earning potential and flexible redemption options, while also offering solid value for big-box shopping like Costco. Its straightforward rewards system makes it easy to earn points on bulk purchases as well as travel expenses.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2x miles on every purchase, including Costco
    • 5x miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
    • 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

    Welcome Bonus:
    New cardholders can earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 within the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $395
    • APR: 19.99%–29.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Airport lounge access, annual travel credit, anniversary bonus miles
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Travel rewards credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • High earning rates on travel bookings
    • Flat 2x miles on all other purchases
    • Access to Capital One and Priority Pass lounges
    • Annual travel credit helps offset the fee
    • Anniversary bonus rewards

    Redemption Options:
    Miles can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, gift cards, or transferred to airline and hotel partners.

    Credit Requirements:
    Applicants usually need excellent credit, often starting around a 740 FICO score.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    The high annual fee may not suit those who travel infrequently.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    Its simple 2x miles structure makes it easy for new cardholders to earn rewards without tracking complex categories.

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

    The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a travel rewards card that keeps earning simple and redemption flexible, even for occasional Costco purchases. It is designed for people who want straightforward rewards without tracking rotating categories.

    The card works well for everyday spending and can be used for both travel and non-travel purchases. Its flat-rate earning system makes it easy to understand and manage.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
    • 5x miles on Capital One Entertainment purchases through 12/31/25
    • 2x miles on every purchase, including Costco

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • APR: Variable, around 19.99%–29.24%
    • Other benefits: Travel insurance, extended warranty, no blackout dates on travel
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Travel rewards
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • Flat-rate earning on all purchases
    • Flexible redemption options
    • Strong travel protections
    • Easy to use for both travel and everyday spending

    Redemption Options:

    Miles can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, gift cards, or shopping with partner merchants.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, often with a FICO score of 670 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card has an annual fee and does not offer bonus categories beyond travel bookings.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its simple earning system and flexible redemption make it easy for first-time rewards card users to manage.

  • Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students

    The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students is designed for young cardholders who want flexible cash back options. It gives students a chance to earn rewards while building their credit history.

    This card stands out because it lets users choose their top earning category. It also provides steady rewards on everyday purchases, making it practical for regular spending.

    Earning Structure:

    • 6% cash back in the eligible category of your choice for the first year
    • 2% cash back on grocery stores and wholesale clubs, up to $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases
    • After the first year, 3% cash back in a category of your choice and 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, up to a quarterly maximum

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending at least $1,000 within the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: Variable, typically 18.24%–28.24%
    • Other benefits: Access to Bank of America Preferred Rewards for higher earning potential
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Student credit card, cash back
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Other details: Cash back rewards never expire

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Extra rewards at wholesale clubs like Costco
    • Simple flat 1% on all other spending
    • Higher rewards possible with Preferred Rewards

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed as a statement credit, direct deposit, or applied toward purchases.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, with a FICO score starting at 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The 2% bonus category has a quarterly spending cap, which limits higher earnings.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers simple rewards, no annual fee, and flexibility, making it a good first card for students.

  • U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card

    The U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card is designed for people who want strong cash back rewards on everyday purchases. It works well for Costco shoppers because it includes popular retailers in its bonus categories.

    This card focuses on flexibility by allowing cardholders to choose certain categories for higher cash back rates. It also offers a solid flat rate on all other purchases, making it useful beyond Costco.

    Earning Structure:

    • 6% cash back on the first $1,500 in combined eligible purchases each quarter in two chosen categories
    • 5.5% cash back on prepaid car and hotel reservations booked through the Rewards Travel Center
    • 3% cash back on the first $1,500 in eligible purchases each quarter in one everyday category, including Costco
    • 1.5% cash back on all other eligible purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn $250 after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first four months of account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95 (waived the first year)
    • APR: Variable, typically around 18.74%–28.74%
    • Other benefits: Visa Signature protections, purchase security, extended warranty
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Cash back credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Additional perks: Quarterly category selection flexibility

    Key Benefits:

    • High 6% cash back at select retailers
    • Customizable bonus categories
    • Strong flat 1.5% rate on other purchases
    • Visa Signature travel and purchase protections
    • First-year annual fee waived

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed as a statement credit, direct deposit, or mailed check.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of 690–850.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The 6% bonus applies only up to a quarterly spending cap, and foreign purchases incur a 3% fee.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    The card is beginner-friendly because it offers simple cash back redemption and clear bonus categories.

  • Chase Freedom Unlimited®

    The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a straightforward cash back credit card that works well for everyday spending, including Costco purchases. It focuses on simplicity, making it easy for cardholders to earn rewards without tracking rotating categories.

    It also ties into the Chase Ultimate Rewards® program, giving users flexibility in how they redeem points. This makes it useful for both casual spenders and those who want to combine it with other Chase cards.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
    • 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases
    • 1.5% cash back on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn $200 cash back after spending $500 within the first three months of membership.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: Variable, typically around 18.99%–28.49%
    • Other benefits: Purchase protection, extended warranty, travel and emergency assistance
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Cash back / rewards
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Additional perks: Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Flat 1.5% cash back on all purchases
    • Bonus rewards on dining, travel, and drugstores
    • Rewards can be combined with premium Chase cards
    • Simple earning structure with no rotating categories

    Redemption Options:

    Rewards can be redeemed for cash back, travel, gift cards, or purchases through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, with a FICO score starting at 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Foreign transaction fees and limited travel protections may reduce its value for international travelers.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    The simple rewards system and no annual fee make it easy for new cardholders to manage.

  • Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

    The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers a simple flat-rate rewards system that appeals to Costco shoppers who want steady value. It works well for those who prefer not to track rotating categories or spending caps.

    This card provides straightforward rewards that can fit into everyday purchases, including Costco runs. Its structure makes it a reliable choice for consistent cash back without extra effort.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2% cash rewards on all purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn a cash rewards bonus of $200 after spending $500 within the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Cash back
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Additional perks: Cell phone protection when paying with the card

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
    • Simple earning structure without categories
    • Intro APR period for purchases and transfers
    • Cell phone protection included

    Redemption Options:

    Cash rewards can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposits, or used toward purchases through Wells Fargo’s redemption options.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit, often starting around a FICO score of 670 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not offer bonus categories beyond the flat 2% rate, and it charges a foreign transaction fee.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    The card offers a high flat rewards rate, a simple welcome bonus, and no annual fee, making it an appealing choice for Costco shoppers.

  • Citi Double Cash® Card

    The Citi Double Cash® Card offers a simple way to earn rewards on everyday purchases, including trips to Costco. It focuses on flat-rate cash back, making it easy to understand without tracking multiple categories.

    This card is often seen as a reliable choice for people who want steady value. It works well for those who prefer cash back flexibility over rotating bonus categories.

    Earning Structure:

    • 1% cash back when making a purchase
    • 1% cash back when paying off that purchase
    • Total of 2% cash back on all eligible purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn $200 cash back after spending $1,500 within the first six months of membership.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% introductory APR for 18 months on balance transfers, then 18.24%–28.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Access to Citi Entertainment for event tickets
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Cash back credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Additional features: Option to convert rewards into Citi ThankYou® Points

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Straightforward 2% cash back structure
    • Ability to convert cash back rewards to travel partners
    • Works well for everyday, non-category spending

    Redemption Options:

    Cardholders can redeem rewards as statement credits, direct deposits, checks, or transfer them into Citi ThankYou® Points for travel and partner programs.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants usually need good to excellent credit (FICO score of 670 or higher) to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not offer bonus categories, and foreign transaction fees make it less ideal for international use.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its simple earning structure makes it easy for new cardholders to manage and understand rewards.

  • Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

    The Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi is designed for everyday spending at Costco and beyond. It offers cash back rewards across multiple categories, making it useful for members who want value on both warehouse and non-warehouse purchases.

    Cardholders can earn rewards automatically without tracking rotating categories. The card also works anywhere Visa is accepted, which makes it more versatile than a store-only card.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5% cash back on gas at Costco
    • 4% cash back on other eligible gas and EV charging
    • 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel, including Costco Travel
    • 2% cash back on all other Costco and Costco.com purchases
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not currently offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0 with Costco membership
    • APR: 19.49%–27.49% variable
    • Other benefits: Access to Citi cardholder services
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Cash back credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card (Costco membership required)
    • Strong rewards on gas, dining, and travel
    • Extra cash back on Costco purchases
    • Accepted anywhere Visa is used

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back is provided annually as a reward certificate, which can be redeemed at Costco warehouses for purchases or cash.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need excellent credit (FICO score of 740–850) to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Rewards are issued once per year, which may not suit those who prefer frequent redemptions.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It keeps earning simple with flat cash back rates across common categories.

  • Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

    The Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card is a simple cash back card designed for small business owners. It provides flat-rate rewards on every purchase without requiring users to track categories.

    This makes it a practical choice for businesses that spend across many areas, including Costco. It also integrates with Chase’s Ultimate Rewards program for added flexibility.

    Earning Structure:

    • Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn $900 cash back after spending $6,000 in the first three months of account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: Variable, around 17.49%–23.49%
    • Other benefits: Employee cards at no extra cost
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Business credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Additional perks: Purchase protection and extended warranty coverage

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Flat-rate cash back on every purchase
    • Ability to combine points with other Chase cards
    • Flexible redemption through Chase Ultimate Rewards
    • Employee cards available for free

    Redemption Options:

    Cardholders can redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel, or transfer to other Chase cards that offer airline and hotel partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit (FICO score of at least 670) to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card charges a foreign transaction fee, which makes it less useful for international purchases.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its flat-rate structure and no annual fee make it easy for new business owners to earn rewards without added complexity.

  • Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi

    The Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi is designed for small business owners who want to earn rewards on everyday spending. It provides a simple way to earn cash back without adding extra fees beyond the cost of a Costco membership.

    This card works well for those who regularly purchase gas, travel, and dining, as it rewards spending in those categories. It also offers purchase protection that can help safeguard business-related purchases.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5% cash back on gas at Costco and 4% cash back on other eligible gas and EV charging purchases (on a combined $7,000 in spend per year, then 1% thereafter)
    • 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
    • 2% cash back on purchases from Costco and Costco.com
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not currently offer a welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0 with paid Costco membership
    • APR: 19.49%–27.49% variable
    • Other benefits: Purchase protection, worldwide car rental insurance
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Business credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee beyond Costco membership
    • High cash back on gas purchases
    • Strong rewards on travel and dining
    • Useful for both business and personal Costco spending

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back is issued annually as a reward certificate, which can be redeemed for cash or merchandise at Costco.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need excellent credit to qualify, with a FICO score of at least 740.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The 5% gas rewards cap at $7,000 per year, and rewards are only redeemable once per year at Costco.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers simple cash back categories and no extra fees, making it easy for new business cardholders to manage.

Why Costco-Specific Credit Cards Stand Out

Costco credit cards are unique because they reward bulk shopping and everyday spending in one place. These options offer high cash back on gas, dining, and travel, along with bonus rates for Costco purchases, unlike standard rewards cards. This mix makes them appealing for families, small businesses, and anyone who shops at warehouse clubs frequently.

Tips for Maximizing Costco Rewards

Getting the most value from a Costco-friendly credit card takes a bit of planning. Combine high cash back categories with regular Costco purchases to boost overall rewards. Paying balances in full each month and redeeming rewards strategically can help stretch every dollar while avoiding interest charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any credit card at Costco, or are there restrictions on certain types?

Costco only accepts Visa credit cards in its U.S. warehouses and online store. Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are not accepted for in-store purchases. However, debit cards, checks, and Costco Shop Cards remain available as alternative payment options.

How do fluctuating exchange rates affect Costco credit card rewards when shopping at international warehouses?

When shopping at Costco locations abroad, the purchase is converted to U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate on the transaction date. Your rewards are calculated after this conversion, so the value can vary slightly with currency changes. Any foreign transaction fees your card charges will also reduce the net rewards earned.

Can Costco reward certificates from a credit card be transferred or gifted to someone without a membership?

Costco reward certificates are tied to the primary cardholder’s membership account and cannot be officially transferred or gifted. However, you can redeem the certificate for merchandise or cash and then share the purchased items or funds. Non-members cannot directly use the certificate at checkout.

What happens to earned rewards if a Costco membership is canceled before the annual reward certificate is issued?

If you cancel your Costco membership before the certificate is issued, you forfeit any unredeemed rewards. The credit card issuer will not release the certificate without an active Costco membership. It’s best to redeem rewards or wait until the certificate is issued before canceling.

Are there tax implications for redeeming large amounts of Costco credit card cash back rewards in a single year?

Generally, cash back rewards earned from personal spending are not taxable because they’re treated as rebates, not income. If the card is used for business purchases, the redeemed rewards may reduce deductible expenses. Always consult a tax professional for guidance on reporting business-related rewards.