Money Management

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It’s a good idea to complete your holiday shopping before December. By then, everyone else will be out and about doing their shopping, too. Many retailers have early holiday sales that make getting all the presents you need more affordable. If you have a Costco membership, the warehouse club retailer has some fantastic deals on gifts for kids.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!Ready to shop? Here are some fun gift options for kids that you can buy at Costco.com or your local club.1. Yourigami Kids Convertible Play Fort for $129.99This is a great present for younger kiddos who are active and adventurous. The Yourigami Kids Convertible Play Fort features various modular foam pieces with machine-washable covers. The modular pieces can be moved around to build the perfect fort. Your child will have a soft place to land when running around and playing with friends.This well-rated play fort is on sale at Costco for an additional $30 off through Nov. 24. You’ll pay only $129.99 for this winning present.2. 93-inch Plush Bear for $299.99If you want to splurge on an unforgettable gift, here’s a great option. Costco sells a 93-inch plush teddy bear. It’s gigantic and cuddly and will cost you $299.99. We can’t promise it will fit in your car — but you can order at Costco.com and have it delivered to your favorite kiddo’s home.Want to maximize your savings when shopping at Costco? Use a reward credit card to pay for your next haul. Click here to review our list of the top credit cards for Costco shoppers.3. VTech Kidi Star Drum Pad for $44.99If you have a musical kiddo on your shopping list, an electronic drum pad kit would make for a great present. The VTech Kidi Star Drum Pad is available at Costco for $44.99. This drum pad retails elsewhere for $59.99, so your Costco membership card can help you save some cash. The best part is you can connect wired or Bluetooth headphones so the adults at home can avoid headaches.4. LEGO Poinsettia & Christmas Tree Bundle for $79.99Costco sells LEGO kits that are perfect for the holidays. If your child loves to build things or is a big fan of LEGO toys, check to see if you can save money by purchasing kits at Costco. You can buy the LEGO Poinsettia & Christmas Tree Bundle at Costco for $79.99.Each kit costs $44.99 to $49.99 separately elsewhere, so that’s a fantastic price to pay for both LEGO kits. These holiday-themed kits are best for older kids and teens. This present can be enjoyed for many years to come. It’ll be fun to build them together every holiday season.5. Bluey 6 Volt Ride-on Road Trip Edition for $99.99If your child loves Bluey, this would make for an incredible gift to have set up by the tree on Christmas morning. Costco sells the Bluey 6 Volt Ride-on Road Trip Edition for $99.99. It features working headlights and requires two AA batteries. It’s intended for kids ages 2 and up and supports up to 55 pounds. This would make an adorable gift for your younger family members.Shopping for holiday essentials at Costco can benefit your walletSure, you can buy affordable groceries and household items at Costco. But that’s not all. You can shop great deals on presents, holiday decor, treats, and more. You can maximize your Costco membership by taking advantage of deals like this. Every dollar you save is a win for your checking account.Still need to get your shopping done? Don’t wait too long. The sooner you finalize your shopping, the more time you’ll have to enjoy the holidays.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

It’s a good idea to complete your holiday shopping before December. By then, everyone else will be out and about doing their shopping, too. Many retailers have early holiday sales that make getting all the presents you need more affordable. If you have a Costco membership, the warehouse club retailer has some fantastic deals on gifts for kids.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

Ready to shop? Here are some fun gift options for kids that you can buy at Costco.com or your local club.

1. Yourigami Kids Convertible Play Fort for $129.99

This is a great present for younger kiddos who are active and adventurous. The Yourigami Kids Convertible Play Fort features various modular foam pieces with machine-washable covers. The modular pieces can be moved around to build the perfect fort. Your child will have a soft place to land when running around and playing with friends.

This well-rated play fort is on sale at Costco for an additional $30 off through Nov. 24. You’ll pay only $129.99 for this winning present.

2. 93-inch Plush Bear for $299.99

If you want to splurge on an unforgettable gift, here’s a great option. Costco sells a 93-inch plush teddy bear. It’s gigantic and cuddly and will cost you $299.99. We can’t promise it will fit in your car — but you can order at Costco.com and have it delivered to your favorite kiddo’s home.

Want to maximize your savings when shopping at Costco? Use a reward credit card to pay for your next haul. Click here to review our list of the top credit cards for Costco shoppers.

3. VTech Kidi Star Drum Pad for $44.99

If you have a musical kiddo on your shopping list, an electronic drum pad kit would make for a great present. The VTech Kidi Star Drum Pad is available at Costco for $44.99. This drum pad retails elsewhere for $59.99, so your Costco membership card can help you save some cash. The best part is you can connect wired or Bluetooth headphones so the adults at home can avoid headaches.

4. LEGO Poinsettia & Christmas Tree Bundle for $79.99

Costco sells LEGO kits that are perfect for the holidays. If your child loves to build things or is a big fan of LEGO toys, check to see if you can save money by purchasing kits at Costco. You can buy the LEGO Poinsettia & Christmas Tree Bundle at Costco for $79.99.

Each kit costs $44.99 to $49.99 separately elsewhere, so that’s a fantastic price to pay for both LEGO kits. These holiday-themed kits are best for older kids and teens. This present can be enjoyed for many years to come. It’ll be fun to build them together every holiday season.

5. Bluey 6 Volt Ride-on Road Trip Edition for $99.99

If your child loves Bluey, this would make for an incredible gift to have set up by the tree on Christmas morning. Costco sells the Bluey 6 Volt Ride-on Road Trip Edition for $99.99. It features working headlights and requires two AA batteries. It’s intended for kids ages 2 and up and supports up to 55 pounds. This would make an adorable gift for your younger family members.

Shopping for holiday essentials at Costco can benefit your wallet

Sure, you can buy affordable groceries and household items at Costco. But that’s not all. You can shop great deals on presents, holiday decor, treats, and more. You can maximize your Costco membership by taking advantage of deals like this. Every dollar you save is a win for your checking account.

Still need to get your shopping done? Don’t wait too long. The sooner you finalize your shopping, the more time you’ll have to enjoy the holidays.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
Joining a warehouse club like Costco or Sam’s Club could help you save money on everything from groceries to cleaning supplies to gas for your car. And if you think you’ll shop at either store often enough, then it could pay to get an upgraded membership.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!At Costco, an Executive membership costs $130 per year, compared to $65 for a Gold Star membership. At Sam’s Club, a Plus membership costs $110 per year, compared to $50 for standard club access.Both of these options give you 2% cash back on your purchases. However, if you’re torn between the two upgrades, you may be inclined to choose a Sam’s Club Plus membership due to the lower upfront price point.That’s not the only advantage a Plus membership offers over an Executive one, though. Here are a few other perks that give a Sam’s Club Plus membership an edge.1. Free curbside pickupHate the idea of navigating a crowded store? At Sam’s Club, Plus members get free curbside pickup on orders of any size. Costco doesn’t offer curbside pickup, period, so your Executive membership won’t get you out of entering the store.2. Early shopping hoursIf dealing with crowds is your least favorite thing about shopping at a warehouse club store, Sam’s Club Plus members may have an easier time avoiding it. Plus members get access to early shopping hours at qualifying warehouse club locations. Costco used to offer early shopping hours for Executive members, but it did away with that benefit years ago.3. Savings on tiresIt can be beneficial to purchase tires from either Sam’s Club and Costco. But as a Plus member, you’re eligible for 50% off installation of four tires. Also, you get early access to the store’s tire center, which could help minimize your wait time for installation.There are plenty of perks of buying tires at Costco, like free maintenance and a five-year road hazard warranty. But Executive members don’t get extra benefits at Costco’s tire centers.Which upgraded membership should you choose?It’s pretty easy to make the case that a Sam’s Club Plus membership is superior to Costco’s Executive membership based on price and perks. But here’s the thing: If you prefer shopping at Costco based on the store’s selection, quality of products, and proximity to your home, then that’s reason enough to choose an Executive membership over a Plus membership.It’s nice to save $20 a year on your warehouse club fee. It’s also nice to get benefits like early store access. But if you enjoy shopping at Costco more than Sam’s Club, then Costco is the right call for you. If you force yourself to stick to Sam’s Club simply to save money on your membership fee, you may not use your membership that often.And if you use the right credit card for your Costco shopping, you can earn enough cash back to make up for the extra $20 you’re spending on an upgraded membership there compared to what you’d spend at Sam’s Club. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco so you can enjoy added benefits on top of what an Executive membership pays you.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Joining a warehouse club like Costco or Sam’s Club could help you save money on everything from groceries to cleaning supplies to gas for your car. And if you think you’ll shop at either store often enough, then it could pay to get an upgraded membership.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

At Costco, an Executive membership costs $130 per year, compared to $65 for a Gold Star membership. At Sam’s Club, a Plus membership costs $110 per year, compared to $50 for standard club access.

Both of these options give you 2% cash back on your purchases. However, if you’re torn between the two upgrades, you may be inclined to choose a Sam’s Club Plus membership due to the lower upfront price point.

That’s not the only advantage a Plus membership offers over an Executive one, though. Here are a few other perks that give a Sam’s Club Plus membership an edge.

1. Free curbside pickup

Hate the idea of navigating a crowded store? At Sam’s Club, Plus members get free curbside pickup on orders of any size. Costco doesn’t offer curbside pickup, period, so your Executive membership won’t get you out of entering the store.

2. Early shopping hours

If dealing with crowds is your least favorite thing about shopping at a warehouse club store, Sam’s Club Plus members may have an easier time avoiding it. Plus members get access to early shopping hours at qualifying warehouse club locations. Costco used to offer early shopping hours for Executive members, but it did away with that benefit years ago.

3. Savings on tires

It can be beneficial to purchase tires from either Sam’s Club and Costco. But as a Plus member, you’re eligible for 50% off installation of four tires. Also, you get early access to the store’s tire center, which could help minimize your wait time for installation.

There are plenty of perks of buying tires at Costco, like free maintenance and a five-year road hazard warranty. But Executive members don’t get extra benefits at Costco’s tire centers.

Which upgraded membership should you choose?

It’s pretty easy to make the case that a Sam’s Club Plus membership is superior to Costco’s Executive membership based on price and perks. But here’s the thing: If you prefer shopping at Costco based on the store’s selection, quality of products, and proximity to your home, then that’s reason enough to choose an Executive membership over a Plus membership.

It’s nice to save $20 a year on your warehouse club fee. It’s also nice to get benefits like early store access. But if you enjoy shopping at Costco more than Sam’s Club, then Costco is the right call for you. If you force yourself to stick to Sam’s Club simply to save money on your membership fee, you may not use your membership that often.

And if you use the right credit card for your Costco shopping, you can earn enough cash back to make up for the extra $20 you’re spending on an upgraded membership there compared to what you’d spend at Sam’s Club. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco so you can enjoy added benefits on top of what an Executive membership pays you.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
There’s no long-term commitment when you open a credit card. You have the right to cancel it at any time. If you realize a card isn’t a good fit, or you find something better, you could call your card issuer to close it.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. But if it’s been less than a year since you got the card, you may want to wait. When you cancel a credit card in the first year, there can be costly consequences.You could lose the welcome offerLots of credit cards have welcome offers for new cardholders. For example, there are cash back cards that offer $200 or more in bonus cash back after you meet a spending minimum. Card issuers have these to attract new customers.But they’re looking for long-term customers. They generally frown on people who open one of their cards, earn the welcome offer, and then cancel it. Some card issuers will even claw back your bonus rewards if you cancel within the first year. A clawback is when the card issuer deducts rewards from your account.American Express is one of the card issuers known for doing this. It explains in the terms and conditions for some of its cards that it may take away rewards you’ve earned if you downgrade or cancel your card within the first year.Losing a welcome offer is a big deal, because this is one of the most valuable perks. If you’re looking for a big bonus opportunity, click here to see our picks for the best credit card welcome offers, including some worth over $500!It could affect your relationship with the card issuerShort-term customers usually aren’t profitable for credit card companies. If you close a card within the first year, the card issuer may decide it doesn’t want to do business with you in the future. It could:Decide you’re ineligible for welcome offers going forward.Decline any future credit card applications you submit.Close any other cards you have with it.These aren’t guaranteed to happen, but it’s not worth the risk. That card issuer may have a card you really want to get in the future. If you’ve burned that bridge by closing a card too early, you’ll miss out.What to do instead of canceling your credit cardTry to always keep credit cards for at least one year before canceling or downgrading them. If you don’t want a card, wait until after the first year to cancel it. You’ll avoid problems with the card issuer this way.What if the card has an annual fee? Some card issuers will refund your annual fee if you cancel or downgrade the card within a certain period. Normally, it’s within 30 days.Online reports indicate that American Express, Capital One, Chase, and Citi will do this, among other card issuers. If you’re concerned about not getting the annual fee back, that’s one situation where it could make sense to cancel a card during the first year.The best option is to choose a card you like and that you want to keep long term. For help with that, check out our curated list of the top credit cards. Whether you’re looking for a card with cash back, travel rewards, a 0% intro APR, or something different, you’ll find plenty of options.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Citigroup is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. American Express is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Lyle Daly has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends JPMorgan Chase. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

There’s no long-term commitment when you open a credit card. You have the right to cancel it at any time. If you realize a card isn’t a good fit, or you find something better, you could call your card issuer to close it.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

But if it’s been less than a year since you got the card, you may want to wait. When you cancel a credit card in the first year, there can be costly consequences.

You could lose the welcome offer

Lots of credit cards have welcome offers for new cardholders. For example, there are cash back cards that offer $200 or more in bonus cash back after you meet a spending minimum. Card issuers have these to attract new customers.

But they’re looking for long-term customers. They generally frown on people who open one of their cards, earn the welcome offer, and then cancel it. Some card issuers will even claw back your bonus rewards if you cancel within the first year. A clawback is when the card issuer deducts rewards from your account.

American Express is one of the card issuers known for doing this. It explains in the terms and conditions for some of its cards that it may take away rewards you’ve earned if you downgrade or cancel your card within the first year.

Losing a welcome offer is a big deal, because this is one of the most valuable perks. If you’re looking for a big bonus opportunity, click here to see our picks for the best credit card welcome offers, including some worth over $500!

It could affect your relationship with the card issuer

Short-term customers usually aren’t profitable for credit card companies. If you close a card within the first year, the card issuer may decide it doesn’t want to do business with you in the future. It could:

• Decide you’re ineligible for welcome offers going forward.
• Decline any future credit card applications you submit.
• Close any other cards you have with it.

These aren’t guaranteed to happen, but it’s not worth the risk. That card issuer may have a card you really want to get in the future. If you’ve burned that bridge by closing a card too early, you’ll miss out.

What to do instead of canceling your credit card

Try to always keep credit cards for at least one year before canceling or downgrading them. If you don’t want a card, wait until after the first year to cancel it. You’ll avoid problems with the card issuer this way.

What if the card has an annual fee? Some card issuers will refund your annual fee if you cancel or downgrade the card within a certain period. Normally, it’s within 30 days.

Online reports indicate that American Express, Capital One, Chase, and Citi will do this, among other card issuers. If you’re concerned about not getting the annual fee back, that’s one situation where it could make sense to cancel a card during the first year.

The best option is to choose a card you like and that you want to keep long term. For help with that, check out our curated list of the top credit cards. Whether you’re looking for a card with cash back, travel rewards, a 0% intro APR, or something different, you’ll find plenty of options.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Citigroup is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. American Express is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Lyle Daly has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends JPMorgan Chase. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool/Upsplash
In September, Costco raised its membership prices for the first time in years. The cost of a Gold Star membership increased from $60 to $65 per year, and an Executive membership went from $120 to $130 per year. The reason the Executive membership costs double is that it pays you 2% cash back on Costco purchases.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!You may be torn over whether to keep shopping at Costco or canceling your membership in light of the recent fee hike. But you should also know that if you play your cards right, you may not have to pay for your Costco access at all.Does Costco offer discounted or trial memberships?Occasionally, Sam’s Club will offer discounts on memberships to attract new customers. But that’s not something Costco does.Not only does Costco not discount its memberships, but it also doesn’t offer a free trial membership so you can check out the store and see if you like it — at least not directly, anyway. But you can sort of get a free trial at Costco because the store lets you cancel your membership at any time for a refund.So yes, if you want to be able to shop at Costco, you will need to shell out some money upfront. But since you can always get that money back if you aren’t satisfied with your membership, it isn’t much of a risk.How to basically get your Costco membership for freeSince we just established that Costco does not offer discounted memberships, you may be wondering how on earth you can pull off a free membership. And the answer is, if you join at the Executive level and spend enough money at the store during the year, you can earn enough cash back to make back the $130 fee.It takes $6,500 of Costco spending in a year to earn $130 at a rate of 2% back. But if you shop at Costco every week and spend $125 per week, that’s $6,500 right there. And even if you don’t shop at Costco 52 weeks of the year, you might still end up hitting the $6,500 mark if you make a few one-off purchases, like electronics or appliances, on top of buying everyday items.Plus, Executive members at Costco can earn cash back on vacation packages they book through the store’s travel service. If you decide to take a family of five to a resort, it might cost you several thousand dollars, allowing you to pretty much recoup your entire Executive membership fee with a single purchase.Don’t sweat it if you can’t get your Costco membership at no costOf course, one thing you don’t want to do is spend extra money at Costco just to rack up a high enough tab to get your membership for free. If that happens naturally, great. But you shouldn’t force it.That said, don’t be too upset if you end up having to pay for Costco access to some degree. What you spend on a membership, you might more than make up for in the form of savings on groceries, household products, and other purchases.Remember, too, that while the above strategy hinges on having an Executive membership at Costco, if that tier isn’t right for you, just stick to the Gold Star membership and make your peace with spending the $65 a year. Even if the bulk of your savings comes in the form of Costco’s cheaper gas, if you fill up your car there once a week and save $1.25 per fill-up (which is feasible seeing as how you might save $0.20 per gallon), that alone helps you recoup your entry-level membership fee.You should also know that even though Costco’s basic membership won’t give you cash back on purchases, you can set yourself up for cash back by using the right credit card. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco shoppers so you can enjoy even more perks as a member.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

In September, Costco raised its membership prices for the first time in years. The cost of a Gold Star membership increased from $60 to $65 per year, and an Executive membership went from $120 to $130 per year. The reason the Executive membership costs double is that it pays you 2% cash back on Costco purchases.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

You may be torn over whether to keep shopping at Costco or canceling your membership in light of the recent fee hike. But you should also know that if you play your cards right, you may not have to pay for your Costco access at all.

Does Costco offer discounted or trial memberships?

Occasionally, Sam’s Club will offer discounts on memberships to attract new customers. But that’s not something Costco does.

Not only does Costco not discount its memberships, but it also doesn’t offer a free trial membership so you can check out the store and see if you like it — at least not directly, anyway. But you can sort of get a free trial at Costco because the store lets you cancel your membership at any time for a refund.

So yes, if you want to be able to shop at Costco, you will need to shell out some money upfront. But since you can always get that money back if you aren’t satisfied with your membership, it isn’t much of a risk.

How to basically get your Costco membership for free

Since we just established that Costco does not offer discounted memberships, you may be wondering how on earth you can pull off a free membership. And the answer is, if you join at the Executive level and spend enough money at the store during the year, you can earn enough cash back to make back the $130 fee.

It takes $6,500 of Costco spending in a year to earn $130 at a rate of 2% back. But if you shop at Costco every week and spend $125 per week, that’s $6,500 right there. And even if you don’t shop at Costco 52 weeks of the year, you might still end up hitting the $6,500 mark if you make a few one-off purchases, like electronics or appliances, on top of buying everyday items.

Plus, Executive members at Costco can earn cash back on vacation packages they book through the store’s travel service. If you decide to take a family of five to a resort, it might cost you several thousand dollars, allowing you to pretty much recoup your entire Executive membership fee with a single purchase.

Don’t sweat it if you can’t get your Costco membership at no cost

Of course, one thing you don’t want to do is spend extra money at Costco just to rack up a high enough tab to get your membership for free. If that happens naturally, great. But you shouldn’t force it.

That said, don’t be too upset if you end up having to pay for Costco access to some degree. What you spend on a membership, you might more than make up for in the form of savings on groceries, household products, and other purchases.

Remember, too, that while the above strategy hinges on having an Executive membership at Costco, if that tier isn’t right for you, just stick to the Gold Star membership and make your peace with spending the $65 a year. Even if the bulk of your savings comes in the form of Costco’s cheaper gas, if you fill up your car there once a week and save $1.25 per fill-up (which is feasible seeing as how you might save $0.20 per gallon), that alone helps you recoup your entry-level membership fee.

You should also know that even though Costco’s basic membership won’t give you cash back on purchases, you can set yourself up for cash back by using the right credit card. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco shoppers so you can enjoy even more perks as a member.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Most of us probably only visit The Home Depot if we need to repaint a room and do a small repair. But many contractors and home remodelers find themselves there a lot more often — maybe even weekly during busy seasons. All those trips can get expensive, so it’s only natural to want to find ways to get what you need at a lower price.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. That’s where The Home Depot Pro Xtra Loyalty Program comes in. Here’s a closer look at five key benefits it can offer you. Oh, and did I mention it’s free to join?1. Sign-up bonusYou can sign up for The Home Depot Pro Xtra Membership at any The Home Depot store, on the company’s website, or through its mobile app. It only takes a few minutes, and once you sign up, you can begin enjoying its perks right away.The first benefit you’ll get is a sign-up bonus coupon saving you $20 off a $200 purchase. You don’t have to do anything special to earn this. You get it just for joining the program.2. Exclusive discountsPro Xtra members receive personalized coupons and discounts based on their shopping history. This includes a discount of up to 20% on paints, stains, and primers. They also get access to limited-time promotions and exclusive products designed for professionals.The offers you receive depend in part on your membership tier. There are three: Member, Elite, and VIP. The Member tier is the basic status. To qualify for the Elite tier, you must spend at least $25,000 at The Home Depot during the year. VIPs must spend at least $250,000 during the year.Once you’ve qualified for a certain tier, you maintain that tier for the current year and the following one. The higher tiers get better deals.3. Pro Xtra PerksPro Xtra Perks are rewards points you earn on all purchases you make with your Pro Xtra ID. You can redeem these perks in one of two ways: You can use them to pay rental charges on eligible The Home Depot tools or you can use them to purchase The Home Depot merchandise. In this sense, the perks are a lot like a cash back rewards card’s points.You can earn even more rewards if you open a credit card that offers bonus rewards for home improvement. Check out some of our favorite home improvement credit cards to see how much you could earn.4. Exclusive online toolsPro Xtra members gain access to exclusive online tools that can make managing their business a lot easier. This includes an online quote tool you can use to request quotes for special items or bulk orders and a detailed purchase history to help you keep track of your transactions.Elite and VIP members also receive exclusive support through all of The Home Depot’s support channels, including live chat and text support.5. Access to a network of other professionalsThe Path to Pro Network is a social network available to all The Home Depot Pro Xtra members that lets you communicate with others in the industry about industry trends and get advice on certain jobs. You can also search profiles to find others who are looking for work. This is a great resource for contractors looking to hire additional help.Obviously, the value of this membership depends a lot on how much you shop at The Home Depot. But since it’s free, it’s definitely worth applying for it. Even if you only score a few coupons throughout the year, that’s still a win. And if you shop almost exclusively at the store, you could keep a lot more of what you earn in your savings account.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Most of us probably only visit The Home Depot if we need to repaint a room and do a small repair. But many contractors and home remodelers find themselves there a lot more often — maybe even weekly during busy seasons. All those trips can get expensive, so it’s only natural to want to find ways to get what you need at a lower price.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

That’s where The Home Depot Pro Xtra Loyalty Program comes in. Here’s a closer look at five key benefits it can offer you. Oh, and did I mention it’s free to join?

1. Sign-up bonus

You can sign up for The Home Depot Pro Xtra Membership at any The Home Depot store, on the company’s website, or through its mobile app. It only takes a few minutes, and once you sign up, you can begin enjoying its perks right away.

The first benefit you’ll get is a sign-up bonus coupon saving you $20 off a $200 purchase. You don’t have to do anything special to earn this. You get it just for joining the program.

2. Exclusive discounts

Pro Xtra members receive personalized coupons and discounts based on their shopping history. This includes a discount of up to 20% on paints, stains, and primers. They also get access to limited-time promotions and exclusive products designed for professionals.

The offers you receive depend in part on your membership tier. There are three: Member, Elite, and VIP. The Member tier is the basic status. To qualify for the Elite tier, you must spend at least $25,000 at The Home Depot during the year. VIPs must spend at least $250,000 during the year.

Once you’ve qualified for a certain tier, you maintain that tier for the current year and the following one. The higher tiers get better deals.

3. Pro Xtra Perks

Pro Xtra Perks are rewards points you earn on all purchases you make with your Pro Xtra ID. You can redeem these perks in one of two ways: You can use them to pay rental charges on eligible The Home Depot tools or you can use them to purchase The Home Depot merchandise. In this sense, the perks are a lot like a cash back rewards card‘s points.

You can earn even more rewards if you open a credit card that offers bonus rewards for home improvement. Check out some of our favorite home improvement credit cards to see how much you could earn.

4. Exclusive online tools

Pro Xtra members gain access to exclusive online tools that can make managing their business a lot easier. This includes an online quote tool you can use to request quotes for special items or bulk orders and a detailed purchase history to help you keep track of your transactions.

Elite and VIP members also receive exclusive support through all of The Home Depot’s support channels, including live chat and text support.

5. Access to a network of other professionals

The Path to Pro Network is a social network available to all The Home Depot Pro Xtra members that lets you communicate with others in the industry about industry trends and get advice on certain jobs. You can also search profiles to find others who are looking for work. This is a great resource for contractors looking to hire additional help.

Obviously, the value of this membership depends a lot on how much you shop at The Home Depot. But since it’s free, it’s definitely worth applying for it. Even if you only score a few coupons throughout the year, that’s still a win. And if you shop almost exclusively at the store, you could keep a lot more of what you earn in your savings account.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Surging inflation in recent years has forced many people to rely more on credit cards to make ends meet. Unfortunately, that’s led to a rise in credit card debt among most generations, millennials included. And the amount of money millennials owe on their credit cards at this point may surprise you.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. Millennial credit card debt is growingExperian, one of the three credit reporting bureaus, says that since 2012, the average credit card debt among millennials has more than doubled. And millennials now owe a little more than $6,600 on their credit cards on average.That’s a problem, because credit cards are notorious for charging large amounts of interest. And also, too much credit card debt can be damaging to a credit score, making it harder to borrow money affordably.How to get out of credit card debtIf you owe $6,600 on your credit cards, you should know that that balance is costing you money by the day. How much money? Well, it depends on the interest rate your credit card company is charging you and how long it takes to pay off your debt from this point forward.But let’s say you have a 20% APR on a $6,600 balance, and it takes you five years to pay it off. In that case, you’re talking about losing almost $3,900 to interest, which is more than half of your existing balance. That’s just painful. And it’s also why you should make every effort to shed your credit card debt as quickly as possible.One of the best ways to pay off credit cards in short order is to consolidate your debt. This often allows you to lower your interest rate and enjoy the benefit of only having to make one monthly payment. And there are a couple of options to consider.First, consider a balance transfer, which allows you to move your existing balances onto a single card — and usually one with a 0% introductory rate. Getting a reprieve from racking up interest for what could be a year or more should make it easier to get ahead of your debt. Click here for a list of the best balance transfer credit cards to explore your options.Another option is to consolidate your credit card balances into a personal loan. The benefit of a personal loan is that you’ll enjoy a fixed interest rate on your balance with predictable monthly payments. And if your credit score is in decent shape, you may find that the interest rate you get on a personal loan is significantly lower than what your credit cards are charging you now. Click here for a list of the best personal loan lenders to get started.You may or may not be shocked to learn that the average millennial has over $6,600 in credit card debt. But no matter your age or your credit card balances, your goal should be to shed that debt as quickly and efficiently as possible. And using a balance transfer or personal loan could be your ticket to doing that.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Surging inflation in recent years has forced many people to rely more on credit cards to make ends meet. Unfortunately, that’s led to a rise in credit card debt among most generations, millennials included. And the amount of money millennials owe on their credit cards at this point may surprise you.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

Millennial credit card debt is growing

Experian, one of the three credit reporting bureaus, says that since 2012, the average credit card debt among millennials has more than doubled. And millennials now owe a little more than $6,600 on their credit cards on average.

That’s a problem, because credit cards are notorious for charging large amounts of interest. And also, too much credit card debt can be damaging to a credit score, making it harder to borrow money affordably.

How to get out of credit card debt

If you owe $6,600 on your credit cards, you should know that that balance is costing you money by the day. How much money? Well, it depends on the interest rate your credit card company is charging you and how long it takes to pay off your debt from this point forward.

But let’s say you have a 20% APR on a $6,600 balance, and it takes you five years to pay it off. In that case, you’re talking about losing almost $3,900 to interest, which is more than half of your existing balance. That’s just painful. And it’s also why you should make every effort to shed your credit card debt as quickly as possible.

One of the best ways to pay off credit cards in short order is to consolidate your debt. This often allows you to lower your interest rate and enjoy the benefit of only having to make one monthly payment. And there are a couple of options to consider.

First, consider a balance transfer, which allows you to move your existing balances onto a single card — and usually one with a 0% introductory rate. Getting a reprieve from racking up interest for what could be a year or more should make it easier to get ahead of your debt. Click here for a list of the best balance transfer credit cards to explore your options.

Another option is to consolidate your credit card balances into a personal loan. The benefit of a personal loan is that you’ll enjoy a fixed interest rate on your balance with predictable monthly payments. And if your credit score is in decent shape, you may find that the interest rate you get on a personal loan is significantly lower than what your credit cards are charging you now. Click here for a list of the best personal loan lenders to get started.

You may or may not be shocked to learn that the average millennial has over $6,600 in credit card debt. But no matter your age or your credit card balances, your goal should be to shed that debt as quickly and efficiently as possible. And using a balance transfer or personal loan could be your ticket to doing that.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More