Costco launches app update that benefits millions of credit card holders

The warehouse chain just rolled out an update to make checkout faster for members. Here is how it works.

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Update: Jul 13th, 2026 16:01 EDT

Costco has implemented a new feature designed to make the checkout process much faster for its shoppers.

The wholesale club recently announced that members can now link their Visa credit cards—including the store’s co-branded Costco Anywhere Visa Card—directly to their digital membership card within the Costco app.

This update allows cashiers to scan a single QR code on the user’s phone, automatically verifying the membership ID and processing the payment in one quick motion.

“You can now use any Visa card from your Costco Digital Wallet, including your Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi,” the company stated on its website. “Select one and use it at the pump, pharmacy, or warehouse registers to speed up your checkout.”

As a reminder, this feature is strictly limited to Visa cards, as Visa remains the warehouse chain’s exclusive payment network provider. Shoppers cannot use other major credit networks, such as Mastercard or American Express, at warehouse registers. Additionally, a valid membership is required to shop at Costco.

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A breakdown of Costco membership tiers

Costco offers three primary membership tiers: Gold Star, Business, and Executive. All tiers grant access to core warehouse perks, including discounted contact lenses, Costco Travel packages, and lower prices at Costco Gas stations.

Gold Star Membership

The standard Gold Star membership costs $65 annually. It includes two membership cards for adults over the age of 18 living at the same address, allowing them to shop both in-store and online.

Business Membership

Also priced at $65 per year, the Business tier is designed for business owners looking to purchase products for commercial use, personal use, or resale. It includes one free household card and allows owners to add additional cardholders for $65 each per year. To qualify, applicants must provide business identification, such as a business license or resale certificate.

Executive Membership

The premium Executive membership costs $130 annually and includes two household cards. This tier offers deeper discounts on Costco services and select travel packages, alongside a 2% annual reward on eligible Costco purchases. Executive members also gain access to exclusive early shopping hours.