Money Management

[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool/Upsplash
It’s been a pretty impressive year for certificates of deposit (CDs). For much of 2024, 5% CD rates were the norm. And even though 5% CDs are now harder to find, if you dig around, you might still manage to snag one — or at least lock in a rate that’s close to 5%.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 while a lot of people have been celebrating 5% CDs — and bemoaning the fact that their days are numbered — I’m actually not such a big fan of 5% CD rates. Here’s the reason.It’s a matter of what 5% CD rates representThe idea of earning 5% on a CD is appealing. As long as your bank is FDIC-insured and your deposit is $250,000 or less, you’re taking no risk with your money while snagging a sweet reward. But what I have an issue with is the reason CDs have been able to pay 5%.CD rates have been elevated all year because the Federal Reserve’s benchmark interest rate has been elevated. And the reason is that the Fed implemented a series of rate hikes in 2022 and 2023 in response to soaring inflation.It’s the job of the Fed to oversee monetary policy and stabilize the economy. When inflation reaches sky-high levels, it’s not good for consumers. By raising the federal funds rate, the Fed indirectly causes the cost of borrowing to increase.It also gives consumers more incentive to keep their money in the bank, where it can earn more interest. Both of these things combined do the job of slowing demand, which allows inflation to cool down.Now that inflation levels have been easing, the Fed is starting to lower its benchmark rate in response. Because of that, CDs won’t be paying 5% for much longer. And many are already paying a bit less.But that’s not a bad thing. Sure, I might earn a bit less money from a CD. But soaring inflation is going to hurt my finances worse than a slightly less attractive CD rate.So no, I’m not a fan of 5% CD rates because of what they represent — surging inflation and more expensive prices just about everywhere I look. I’d rather see CD rates come down if it leads to more moderate prices and a healthier economy on a whole.Look at the big pictureIf you’re sad to see 5% CD rates go, recognize that when CD rates are high, so are mortgage rates, personal loan rates, auto loan rates, and credit card interest rates. And you may not come out a winner with a 5% CD if it means that your next large loan is going to cost you extra or your minimum credit card payments are going to increase as your interest rate surges.This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t open a CD at 5% if you can still find one. You might as well lock in a higher rate on your money if you have a pile of cash you don’t think you’ll need to use for in the near future. And you can click here for a list of the top CD rates today to get started.But do understand that 5% CD rates aren’t the norm for a reason. And recognize that their disappearance could do more good for your finances in an indirect way than you’d expect.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”:”

It’s been a pretty impressive year for certificates of deposit (CDs). For much of 2024, 5% CD rates were the norm. And even though 5% CDs are now harder to find, if you dig around, you might still manage to snag one — or at least lock in a rate that’s close to 5%.

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 while a lot of people have been celebrating 5% CDs — and bemoaning the fact that their days are numbered — I’m actually not such a big fan of 5% CD rates. Here’s the reason.

It’s a matter of what 5% CD rates represent

The idea of earning 5% on a CD is appealing. As long as your bank is FDIC-insured and your deposit is $250,000 or less, you’re taking no risk with your money while snagging a sweet reward. But what I have an issue with is the reason CDs have been able to pay 5%.

CD rates have been elevated all year because the Federal Reserve’s benchmark interest rate has been elevated. And the reason is that the Fed implemented a series of rate hikes in 2022 and 2023 in response to soaring inflation.

It’s the job of the Fed to oversee monetary policy and stabilize the economy. When inflation reaches sky-high levels, it’s not good for consumers. By raising the federal funds rate, the Fed indirectly causes the cost of borrowing to increase.

It also gives consumers more incentive to keep their money in the bank, where it can earn more interest. Both of these things combined do the job of slowing demand, which allows inflation to cool down.

Now that inflation levels have been easing, the Fed is starting to lower its benchmark rate in response. Because of that, CDs won’t be paying 5% for much longer. And many are already paying a bit less.

But that’s not a bad thing. Sure, I might earn a bit less money from a CD. But soaring inflation is going to hurt my finances worse than a slightly less attractive CD rate.

So no, I’m not a fan of 5% CD rates because of what they represent — surging inflation and more expensive prices just about everywhere I look. I’d rather see CD rates come down if it leads to more moderate prices and a healthier economy on a whole.

Look at the big picture

If you’re sad to see 5% CD rates go, recognize that when CD rates are high, so are mortgage rates, personal loan rates, auto loan rates, and credit card interest rates. And you may not come out a winner with a 5% CD if it means that your next large loan is going to cost you extra or your minimum credit card payments are going to increase as your interest rate surges.

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t open a CD at 5% if you can still find one. You might as well lock in a higher rate on your money if you have a pile of cash you don’t think you’ll need to use for in the near future. And you can click here for a list of the top CD rates today to get started.

But do understand that 5% CD rates aren’t the norm for a reason. And recognize that their disappearance could do more good for your finances in an indirect way than you’d expect.

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
Just having a Costco membership opens the door to all kinds of savings that you probably had no idea were even possible. But did you know that there are even more ways to save at Costco? It’s true.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!Between coupon stacking, cash back offers, and even more savings when purchasing direct from Costco, there are even more ways to stretch your budget without breaking a sweat. Here are my top five favorites.1. Cash back appsIf you already use cash back apps like Ibotta, you know how much money you can get back from simply buying the things you were planning to buy anyway. It can be pretty impressive — I’ve already gotten hundreds of dollars back in just the last couple of years.But what you may not know (I certainly didn’t) is that you can get cash back from Ibotta at Costco. Although there are generally fewer offers on Ibotta for items in your Costco store, it’s still worth looking into before you go shopping. Add offers you would normally buy and let the good times roll.Ibotta isn’t the only cash back app out there, though. Check out our curated list of these great cash back apps that can save you money every single time you shop.2. Cash back credit cardsAlong with cash back from cash back apps, Costco happens to be magical in that there are several credit cards that offer cash back when you shop there. So whether you buy a new couch or a giant box of frozen ramen, you can earn 2% to 3% cash back with rewards cards suited to your Costco needs.Check out our favorite credit card–based strategy for saving even more money at Costco and see if it could work for you!3. Instacart gift cards through Costco.comInstacart is Costco’s partner for its Same Day Delivery service, which includes a mark-up on many items in order to make the delivery free, minus the tip (you should always tip your driver). But you can currently get a $100 Instacart gift card at Costco.com for just $79.99.This discount will more than cover the upcharge, getting you in-store pricing without the trip to the store. That’s pretty cool, if you ask me.4. Maximizing your Costco Direct ordersSome people include their big purchases in their Costco saving strategies, and it’s really a good plan. Right now, there’s a stackable savings offer available on items available through Costco Direct, which include a whole range of bulky items like couches, appliances, televisions, and even a home greenhouse.Buy two Costco Direct items from the website and save $100 off your order, buy three and save $200, buy four and save $300, and buy five or more Costco Direct items and you’ll save $400 off the top. These items are delivered directly to your door, which makes it that much better of a deal.5. Costco Executive membershipA lot of people know they can save money with their Costco Gold Star memberships simply by shopping in the store, but fewer are aware of how much they can save by upgrading to a Costco Executive membership.If you already have a Gold Star membership, you can upgrade for an extra $65. You’ll get a 2% rebate on almost everything you buy in the store, with a few exceptions and a few rules you have to follow, up to $1,250 total each year.Saving money at Costco is incredibly easyWalking into Costco usually means saving money, but using any — or all — of these additional savings tactics will make the value that much sweeter. With the holidays upon us and the cold winter winds around the corner, there’s no better time to find extra ways to save than right now, and it might as well be with Costco.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.Kristi Waterworth 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”:”

Just having a Costco membership opens the door to all kinds of savings that you probably had no idea were even possible. But did you know that there are even more ways to save at Costco? It’s true.

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!

Between coupon stacking, cash back offers, and even more savings when purchasing direct from Costco, there are even more ways to stretch your budget without breaking a sweat. Here are my top five favorites.

1. Cash back apps

If you already use cash back apps like Ibotta, you know how much money you can get back from simply buying the things you were planning to buy anyway. It can be pretty impressive — I’ve already gotten hundreds of dollars back in just the last couple of years.

But what you may not know (I certainly didn’t) is that you can get cash back from Ibotta at Costco. Although there are generally fewer offers on Ibotta for items in your Costco store, it’s still worth looking into before you go shopping. Add offers you would normally buy and let the good times roll.

Ibotta isn’t the only cash back app out there, though. Check out our curated list of these great cash back apps that can save you money every single time you shop.

2. Cash back credit cards

Along with cash back from cash back apps, Costco happens to be magical in that there are several credit cards that offer cash back when you shop there. So whether you buy a new couch or a giant box of frozen ramen, you can earn 2% to 3% cash back with rewards cards suited to your Costco needs.

Check out our favorite credit card–based strategy for saving even more money at Costco and see if it could work for you!

3. Instacart gift cards through Costco.com

Instacart is Costco’s partner for its Same Day Delivery service, which includes a mark-up on many items in order to make the delivery free, minus the tip (you should always tip your driver). But you can currently get a $100 Instacart gift card at Costco.com for just $79.99.

This discount will more than cover the upcharge, getting you in-store pricing without the trip to the store. That’s pretty cool, if you ask me.

4. Maximizing your Costco Direct orders

Some people include their big purchases in their Costco saving strategies, and it’s really a good plan. Right now, there’s a stackable savings offer available on items available through Costco Direct, which include a whole range of bulky items like couches, appliances, televisions, and even a home greenhouse.

Buy two Costco Direct items from the website and save $100 off your order, buy three and save $200, buy four and save $300, and buy five or more Costco Direct items and you’ll save $400 off the top. These items are delivered directly to your door, which makes it that much better of a deal.

5. Costco Executive membership

A lot of people know they can save money with their Costco Gold Star memberships simply by shopping in the store, but fewer are aware of how much they can save by upgrading to a Costco Executive membership.

If you already have a Gold Star membership, you can upgrade for an extra $65. You’ll get a 2% rebate on almost everything you buy in the store, with a few exceptions and a few rules you have to follow, up to $1,250 total each year.

Saving money at Costco is incredibly easy

Walking into Costco usually means saving money, but using any — or all — of these additional savings tactics will make the value that much sweeter. With the holidays upon us and the cold winter winds around the corner, there’s no better time to find extra ways to save than right now, and it might as well be with Costco.

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.Kristi Waterworth 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.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool/Unsplash
There was a time when I was pretty happy with Aldi. Despite having access to low-cost produce at Costco, I started shopping at Aldi somewhat regularly when I realized that buying certain produce items there instead was saving me about $10 a week. When you multiply that out over a year, it’s about $500 in savings, which is a pretty good deal.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 I have to admit that my trips to Aldi have been pretty infrequent this year. In fact, it’s safe to say that I’ve mostly stopped shopping there. And there’s a reason for that.When you can’t afford to keep wasting your timeI like the idea of saving money on food. But when I realized that shopping at Aldi was actually causing me to lose money instead of saving money, I cut it out of my supermarket rotation. One big problem with Aldi is that its inventory can be inconsistent. When you’re going there to buy 24 items and you come home with 20 of them, that might still make the case for shopping there. But in my case, I was really only going to Aldi for the low-cost produce. My kids are very picky eaters, so I know that Aldi’s lesser-known packaged food brands won’t work for them. Also, it was really only the produce at Aldi that I found for a better price than Costco. So it didn’t make sense for me to buy things like granola bars or peanut butter there — especially given the risk that my kids’ choosiness would cause those purchases to go to waste.Meanwhile, there were a few key produce items I’d specifically look for at Aldi — cucumbers, spinach, strawberries, and avocados. I found that buying those four products at Aldi vs. Costco or ShopRite, the supermarket I go to most frequently, saved me some money. The problem was that most weeks, Aldi would be out of at least one of those items. Sometimes, it would be out of two. And once, I went out of my way to stop at Aldi only to walk out the door completely empty-handed. I’m a freelance writer, and the more time I waste at the supermarket, the less time I have to earn money. I reached a point where stopping at Aldi — and coming out without the few items I needed there — was costing me more in lost working hours than it was saving me. And for this reason, I’ve basically cut ties at this point. Should you stop shopping at Aldi?I realize my situation is a bit unique in that the time it takes to make an extra stop at Aldi prevents me from earning money. If you have a lighter work schedule with more time on your hands, then it may be worth it for you to visit the store weekly and see what you’re able to find. But in my case, a 20- or 30-minute trip to Aldi isn’t worth saving $10 when I can’t even save the full $10 most of the time due to the store’s inconsistent inventory. I’m not going to give up 20 or 30 minutes of work to save $3 or $6. It’s just not worth it — from a financial standpoint and an aggravation standpoint. Plus, I’m pretty good about saving money at my regular supermarket by keeping an eye out for sales and taking advantage of digital coupons. I also get rewarded by my credit card for supermarket purchases, which helps me feel a little less guilty about forgoing my small Aldi savings. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for groceries so you can earn cash back on your food purchases, too.Plus, remember, I have a Costco membership to fall back on, and it allows me to buy groceries in bulk for added savings. So all told, I’m able to keep my food costs to a reasonable level even without shopping at Aldi. And you may be able to do the same.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.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”:”

There was a time when I was pretty happy with Aldi. Despite having access to low-cost produce at Costco, I started shopping at Aldi somewhat regularly when I realized that buying certain produce items there instead was saving me about $10 a week. When you multiply that out over a year, it’s about $500 in savings, which is a pretty good deal.

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 I have to admit that my trips to Aldi have been pretty infrequent this year. In fact, it’s safe to say that I’ve mostly stopped shopping there. And there’s a reason for that.

When you can’t afford to keep wasting your time

I like the idea of saving money on food. But when I realized that shopping at Aldi was actually causing me to lose money instead of saving money, I cut it out of my supermarket rotation.

One big problem with Aldi is that its inventory can be inconsistent. When you’re going there to buy 24 items and you come home with 20 of them, that might still make the case for shopping there.

But in my case, I was really only going to Aldi for the low-cost produce. My kids are very picky eaters, so I know that Aldi’s lesser-known packaged food brands won’t work for them. Also, it was really only the produce at Aldi that I found for a better price than Costco. So it didn’t make sense for me to buy things like granola bars or peanut butter there — especially given the risk that my kids’ choosiness would cause those purchases to go to waste.

Meanwhile, there were a few key produce items I’d specifically look for at Aldi — cucumbers, spinach, strawberries, and avocados. I found that buying those four products at Aldi vs. Costco or ShopRite, the supermarket I go to most frequently, saved me some money.

The problem was that most weeks, Aldi would be out of at least one of those items. Sometimes, it would be out of two. And once, I went out of my way to stop at Aldi only to walk out the door completely empty-handed.

I’m a freelance writer, and the more time I waste at the supermarket, the less time I have to earn money. I reached a point where stopping at Aldi — and coming out without the few items I needed there — was costing me more in lost working hours than it was saving me. And for this reason, I’ve basically cut ties at this point.

Should you stop shopping at Aldi?

I realize my situation is a bit unique in that the time it takes to make an extra stop at Aldi prevents me from earning money. If you have a lighter work schedule with more time on your hands, then it may be worth it for you to visit the store weekly and see what you’re able to find.

But in my case, a 20- or 30-minute trip to Aldi isn’t worth saving $10 when I can’t even save the full $10 most of the time due to the store’s inconsistent inventory. I’m not going to give up 20 or 30 minutes of work to save $3 or $6. It’s just not worth it — from a financial standpoint and an aggravation standpoint.

Plus, I’m pretty good about saving money at my regular supermarket by keeping an eye out for sales and taking advantage of digital coupons. I also get rewarded by my credit card for supermarket purchases, which helps me feel a little less guilty about forgoing my small Aldi savings. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for groceries so you can earn cash back on your food purchases, too.

Plus, remember, I have a Costco membership to fall back on, and it allows me to buy groceries in bulk for added savings. So all told, I’m able to keep my food costs to a reasonable level even without shopping at Aldi. And you may be able to do the same.

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.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.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Costco is different from other stores in that it charges a membership fee. Right now, you’re looking at $65 a year for a basic membership, or $130 a year for an Executive membership that gives 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’re probably aware that Costco members get access to savings on groceries and household essentials like paper towels thanks to the store’s bulk discounts. But you may be surprised to learn that joining Costco offers a world of benefits beyond that.Let’s count down the top five perks of a Costco membership so you can decide whether it pays to get one yourself.Perk No. 5: Stress-free tire replacementDoesn’t it stink that tires don’t last forever? You could be looking at hundreds of dollars when the time comes to replace your vehicle’s tires.The good thing about buying tires at Costco is that they come with lifetime maintenance, including rotations and pressure checks. Tire purchases also come with a free five-year road hazard warranty, so if you bust a tire a year after replacing it, Costco will give you a new one at no cost.Perk No. 4: Extended warranties and tech support for electronicsLike tires, new electronics aren’t cheap. When you buy a new laptop or TV, you want reassurance that it’s going to last.When you buy electronics at Costco, you get a free second-year warranty thrown in. That gives you added peace of mind when you’re spending many hundreds of dollars or more at a time.Plus, electronics at Costco come with free tech support. If you’re the type who struggles to get new devices set up, you’re covered.Perk No. 3: An extremely generous return policyMost stores give you a limited amount of time to return items you don’t want. At Costco, that’s not a concern. You can bring back most items at any time for a full refund.Costco’s return policy even extends to food you’ve begun eating. If you buy a grocery item whose taste you don’t like, you can return it and get your money back, provided you’re bringing back at least 50% of it.Now, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Electronics bought at Costco come with a 90-day return policy, while alcohol and cigarettes generally can’t be returned at all. But for the most part, you’re not taking much of a risk on the Costco products you buy, because purchases that don’t work out can be brought back.Perk No. 2: Discounted gift cardsYou may not realize that Costco sells gift cards to other businesses. But on top of that, Costco’s gift cards are discounted below their face value, allowing you to save big.For example, right now, you can buy $100 worth of IHOP gift cards for $79.99. If your family eats breakfast at IHOP every weekend, this is a deal worth scooping up repeatedly.Plus, if you swipe the right credit card at Costco, you can save even more on your purchases in the form of cash back. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco.Perk No. 1: Inexpensive gas that’s high in qualityAll of the perks above make the case for joining Costco. But the top perk of a membership is getting access to inexpensive gas that’s high in quality.A lot of people fill up their tanks at least once a week. But if you fill up at Costco, you might save yourself $0.20 per gallon or more. If that amounts to $2 in savings per week, and you fill up 50 weeks out of the year, that’s $100 you’ve made back right there, which is way more than the $65 a basic membership costs.You should also know that Costco gas holds the TOP TIER™ designation, which means it’s certified to be high in quality and lead to better engine performance. So if you fill up at Costco — which you can only do as a member — you might save money on gas not just because it’s priced competitively, but because it gives you better mileage.And if you like the sound of that, make sure to use the right credit card when you fill up your tank to maximize rewards on gas purchases and save even more.So there you have it. The perks of getting a Costco membership are by no means limited to savings on eggs and tissue boxes. You can enjoy a world of benefits as a member, so it pays to sign up and give Costco a try.And remember, Costco stands behind its memberships and lets you cancel at any time for a refund. For this reason, there’s truly nothing to lose by giving the store a chance.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”:”

Costco is different from other stores in that it charges a membership fee. Right now, you’re looking at $65 a year for a basic membership, or $130 a year for an Executive membership that gives 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’re probably aware that Costco members get access to savings on groceries and household essentials like paper towels thanks to the store’s bulk discounts. But you may be surprised to learn that joining Costco offers a world of benefits beyond that.

Let’s count down the top five perks of a Costco membership so you can decide whether it pays to get one yourself.

Perk No. 5: Stress-free tire replacement

Doesn’t it stink that tires don’t last forever? You could be looking at hundreds of dollars when the time comes to replace your vehicle’s tires.

The good thing about buying tires at Costco is that they come with lifetime maintenance, including rotations and pressure checks. Tire purchases also come with a free five-year road hazard warranty, so if you bust a tire a year after replacing it, Costco will give you a new one at no cost.

Perk No. 4: Extended warranties and tech support for electronics

Like tires, new electronics aren’t cheap. When you buy a new laptop or TV, you want reassurance that it’s going to last.

When you buy electronics at Costco, you get a free second-year warranty thrown in. That gives you added peace of mind when you’re spending many hundreds of dollars or more at a time.

Plus, electronics at Costco come with free tech support. If you’re the type who struggles to get new devices set up, you’re covered.

Perk No. 3: An extremely generous return policy

Most stores give you a limited amount of time to return items you don’t want. At Costco, that’s not a concern. You can bring back most items at any time for a full refund.

Costco’s return policy even extends to food you’ve begun eating. If you buy a grocery item whose taste you don’t like, you can return it and get your money back, provided you’re bringing back at least 50% of it.

Now, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Electronics bought at Costco come with a 90-day return policy, while alcohol and cigarettes generally can’t be returned at all. But for the most part, you’re not taking much of a risk on the Costco products you buy, because purchases that don’t work out can be brought back.

Perk No. 2: Discounted gift cards

You may not realize that Costco sells gift cards to other businesses. But on top of that, Costco’s gift cards are discounted below their face value, allowing you to save big.

For example, right now, you can buy $100 worth of IHOP gift cards for $79.99. If your family eats breakfast at IHOP every weekend, this is a deal worth scooping up repeatedly.

Plus, if you swipe the right credit card at Costco, you can save even more on your purchases in the form of cash back. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco.

Perk No. 1: Inexpensive gas that’s high in quality

All of the perks above make the case for joining Costco. But the top perk of a membership is getting access to inexpensive gas that’s high in quality.

A lot of people fill up their tanks at least once a week. But if you fill up at Costco, you might save yourself $0.20 per gallon or more. If that amounts to $2 in savings per week, and you fill up 50 weeks out of the year, that’s $100 you’ve made back right there, which is way more than the $65 a basic membership costs.

You should also know that Costco gas holds the TOP TIER™ designation, which means it’s certified to be high in quality and lead to better engine performance. So if you fill up at Costco — which you can only do as a member — you might save money on gas not just because it’s priced competitively, but because it gives you better mileage.

And if you like the sound of that, make sure to use the right credit card when you fill up your tank to maximize rewards on gas purchases and save even more.

So there you have it. The perks of getting a Costco membership are by no means limited to savings on eggs and tissue boxes. You can enjoy a world of benefits as a member, so it pays to sign up and give Costco a try.

And remember, Costco stands behind its memberships and lets you cancel at any time for a refund. For this reason, there’s truly nothing to lose by giving the store a chance.

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.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
Like it or not, the holiday season is upon us and soon to be in full swing. And in the coming weeks, you may find yourself doing a fair amount of shopping to complete your ever-growing gift list.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 could turn to a big-box store like Target for your holiday shopping. But here’s why you may want to rely on Costco instead.1. You can return items pretty much whenever you wantMany retailers offer an extended return policy during the holidays. At Target, for example, most electronics purchased between Nov. 7 and Dec. 24 get a return window through Jan. 24, 2025.But Costco’s flexible return policy gives you even more leeway to bring back holiday purchases well after late January.At Costco, you can return almost any item at any time for a full refund. And while electronics are an exception to the “bring it back anytime” rule, you still get 90 days to bring back items in that category. That gives you plenty of time beyond the end of the holiday season to make returns.2. You can load up on unique and affordable gift basketsGift baskets make a great gift because they’re fun and loaded with items your recipients probably wouldn’t buy for themselves. And the nice thing about food gift baskets in particular is that once the items they contain are eaten, your recipients don’t have to worry about making space in their homes.Costco carries a wide range of gift baskets online and in stores that can suit different budgets. As just one example, though Nov. 30, you can purchase Costco’s Happy Holidays Tower of Sweets for just $29.99, which is $10 off the regular cost. It features a mix of cookies, hard candies, and chocolates that are sure to delight any recipient.Oh, and in case you were wondering, shipping and handling is included in that $29.99 price. So there’s no need to worry about an upcharge when you go to check out.3. You can save serious money on gift cardsGift cards make great gifts for the holidays because they take up virtually no space (and in some cases, no space at all if you send them electronically). You also give your recipients the option to use their gifts at a time that’s convenient for them.Costco carries a host of gift cards that it sells for less than their face value, allowing you to save a lot of money. For example, right now, you can enjoy the following restaurant gift card deals:$100 worth of TGI Friday’s gift cards for $79.99$75 worth of Subway gift cards for $59.99$100 worth of Domino’s gift cards for $74.99Whether you’re looking to express your gratitude to your kids’ teachers, thank your house cleaner, or treat your teenage nieces and nephews to a little something without breaking the bank, turning to Costco for gift cards could be a great bet.Shopping at Costco for the holidays could take away some of the stress while helping you stick to a budget. And if you use the right credit card to pay for your purchases, you can enjoy even more savings. Click here for a list of the best credit cards to use at Costco so you can reap added rewards in the course of completing your holiday gift list.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 positions in Target. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Like it or not, the holiday season is upon us and soon to be in full swing. And in the coming weeks, you may find yourself doing a fair amount of shopping to complete your ever-growing gift list.

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 could turn to a big-box store like Target for your holiday shopping. But here’s why you may want to rely on Costco instead.

1. You can return items pretty much whenever you want

Many retailers offer an extended return policy during the holidays. At Target, for example, most electronics purchased between Nov. 7 and Dec. 24 get a return window through Jan. 24, 2025.

But Costco’s flexible return policy gives you even more leeway to bring back holiday purchases well after late January.

At Costco, you can return almost any item at any time for a full refund. And while electronics are an exception to the “bring it back anytime” rule, you still get 90 days to bring back items in that category. That gives you plenty of time beyond the end of the holiday season to make returns.

2. You can load up on unique and affordable gift baskets

Gift baskets make a great gift because they’re fun and loaded with items your recipients probably wouldn’t buy for themselves. And the nice thing about food gift baskets in particular is that once the items they contain are eaten, your recipients don’t have to worry about making space in their homes.

Costco carries a wide range of gift baskets online and in stores that can suit different budgets. As just one example, though Nov. 30, you can purchase Costco’s Happy Holidays Tower of Sweets for just $29.99, which is $10 off the regular cost. It features a mix of cookies, hard candies, and chocolates that are sure to delight any recipient.

Oh, and in case you were wondering, shipping and handling is included in that $29.99 price. So there’s no need to worry about an upcharge when you go to check out.

3. You can save serious money on gift cards

Gift cards make great gifts for the holidays because they take up virtually no space (and in some cases, no space at all if you send them electronically). You also give your recipients the option to use their gifts at a time that’s convenient for them.

Costco carries a host of gift cards that it sells for less than their face value, allowing you to save a lot of money. For example, right now, you can enjoy the following restaurant gift card deals:

$100 worth of TGI Friday’s gift cards for $79.99$75 worth of Subway gift cards for $59.99$100 worth of Domino’s gift cards for $74.99

Whether you’re looking to express your gratitude to your kids’ teachers, thank your house cleaner, or treat your teenage nieces and nephews to a little something without breaking the bank, turning to Costco for gift cards could be a great bet.

Shopping at Costco for the holidays could take away some of the stress while helping you stick to a budget. And if you use the right credit card to pay for your purchases, you can enjoy even more savings. Click here for a list of the best credit cards to use at Costco so you can reap added rewards in the course of completing your holiday gift list.

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 positions in Target. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool/Getty Images
Cash back cards are a quick, easy way to save more money. And you could save quite a bit with the best cash back cards. Many of them earn anywhere from 2% to as high as 6% back and have sign-up bonuses of $200 or more.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. The cards with the highest cash back rates also tend to have the strictest approval requirements. But that doesn’t mean they’re out of reach, even if you’re still working on your credit. Here’s a helpful guideline for the credit score you need when applying for one of these cards.The credit score you need for the best cash back cardsA FICO® Score of 670 or higher is recommended for most of the top cash back cards. Card issuers usually look for good to excellent credit. Under the FICO® Score system, which is the one most widely used by lenders, good credit ranges from 670 to 739.Guidelines vary from card to card. There are some great cash back cards that you could get with a score of 600 or less. There are also cash back cards that are hard to get with a score below 700. But as a general rule, a score of at least 670 is a good target.If you’re at or above the good credit range, don’t settle for a mediocre cash back card. Check out our list of the top cash back cards to make sure you’re earning as much back as possible.Other factors that affect your credit card applicationWhen you apply for a credit card, your credit score is one of the most important factors — but it’s not the only factor. A high credit score doesn’t guarantee you’ll get approved, even if it’s above the recommendation for that card. A low credit score also doesn’t guarantee you’ll get denied, although you may want to hold off on applying until you’re closer to the recommended range.The card issuer reviews your credit history and your financial profile during the application process. Here are more factors that could come into play:Household incomeNumber of credit cards you haveNumber of recent credit applicationsAny delinquencies on your credit fileYour history with that specific card issuerFor example, I have an excellent credit score. I’ve occasionally been denied for credit cards because of the number of cards I already have and because of how frequently I apply for new ones.How to improve your credit before applying for a cash back cardAlthough a high credit score isn’t a guaranteed approval, it helps when applying for the most popular credit cards. It can also impact other parts of your life. You’ll be more likely to pass a credit check when renting a home. You’ll get lower rates on loans, including mortgages. In most states, a high credit score can even get you cheaper car insurance.It’s easier than many people realize to get a better credit score. Here are a few simple tips that you can follow to reach excellent credit:Use a free credit score tool online. Not only can you monitor your score this way, you can also see the factors affecting it. For the most accurate results, look for a tool that provides your FICO® Score, such as Experian CreditWorks Basic.Never miss a payment. The most heavily weighted factor in your credit score is your payment history. Credit card and loan payments are particularly important, because the creditors report these payments and they end up on your credit history.Reduce your credit card balances. This will lower your credit utilization, another key factor in your credit score.Check your credit report. You’re entitled to a free credit report as often as every week, and you can request it online at AnnualCreditReport.com. If you see any errors, dispute them with the credit bureau that filed the report.If you’ve always wanted a great cash back card, the credit score to aim for is 670. Not there yet? Follow these habits, and you’ll be well on your way.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”:”

Cash back cards are a quick, easy way to save more money. And you could save quite a bit with the best cash back cards. Many of them earn anywhere from 2% to as high as 6% back and have sign-up bonuses of $200 or more.

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.

The cards with the highest cash back rates also tend to have the strictest approval requirements. But that doesn’t mean they’re out of reach, even if you’re still working on your credit. Here’s a helpful guideline for the credit score you need when applying for one of these cards.

The credit score you need for the best cash back cards

A FICO® Score of 670 or higher is recommended for most of the top cash back cards. Card issuers usually look for good to excellent credit. Under the FICO® Score system, which is the one most widely used by lenders, good credit ranges from 670 to 739.

Guidelines vary from card to card. There are some great cash back cards that you could get with a score of 600 or less. There are also cash back cards that are hard to get with a score below 700. But as a general rule, a score of at least 670 is a good target.

If you’re at or above the good credit range, don’t settle for a mediocre cash back card. Check out our list of the top cash back cards to make sure you’re earning as much back as possible.

Other factors that affect your credit card application

When you apply for a credit card, your credit score is one of the most important factors — but it’s not the only factor. A high credit score doesn’t guarantee you’ll get approved, even if it’s above the recommendation for that card. A low credit score also doesn’t guarantee you’ll get denied, although you may want to hold off on applying until you’re closer to the recommended range.

The card issuer reviews your credit history and your financial profile during the application process. Here are more factors that could come into play:

Household incomeNumber of credit cards you haveNumber of recent credit applicationsAny delinquencies on your credit fileYour history with that specific card issuer

For example, I have an excellent credit score. I’ve occasionally been denied for credit cards because of the number of cards I already have and because of how frequently I apply for new ones.

How to improve your credit before applying for a cash back card

Although a high credit score isn’t a guaranteed approval, it helps when applying for the most popular credit cards. It can also impact other parts of your life. You’ll be more likely to pass a credit check when renting a home. You’ll get lower rates on loans, including mortgages. In most states, a high credit score can even get you cheaper car insurance.

It’s easier than many people realize to get a better credit score. Here are a few simple tips that you can follow to reach excellent credit:

Use a free credit score tool online. Not only can you monitor your score this way, you can also see the factors affecting it. For the most accurate results, look for a tool that provides your FICO® Score, such as Experian CreditWorks Basic.Never miss a payment. The most heavily weighted factor in your credit score is your payment history. Credit card and loan payments are particularly important, because the creditors report these payments and they end up on your credit history.Reduce your credit card balances. This will lower your credit utilization, another key factor in your credit score.Check your credit report. You’re entitled to a free credit report as often as every week, and you can request it online at AnnualCreditReport.com. If you see any errors, dispute them with the credit bureau that filed the report.

If you’ve always wanted a great cash back card, the credit score to aim for is 670. Not there yet? Follow these habits, and you’ll be well on your way.

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