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The 8 Best Credit Cards for Shopping at Costco and Costco.com [2024]

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If you frequently shop at Costco, you know it’s easy to rack up a big purchase quickly when buying vast quantities of items in bulk. Over an entire year, you could spend a significant amount of money at the popular warehouse club.

As with any big annual outlay of funds, we’re always on the lookout for ways to make sure those purchases earn as many rewards as possible.

Costco is unique in that not all types of payments or credit cards are accepted in the store. With that obstacle in the forefront, we’ll zero in on the cards that do earn rewards at Costco to help you make your selection.

If you’re a Costco lover — and there are many — you’re probably wondering which cards made our list. Let’s dig in and find out the best ways to earn more rewards at Costco.

How Does Costco Work?

Costco is a warehouse retailer operating membership-based wholesale shopping clubs with hundreds of locations across 12 countries.

Retail locations offer members savings on things such as groceries, clothing, household products, business and restaurant supplies, and travel services. You’ll also find a photo, auto, and optical center, as well as a pharmacy, located in each store.

You may also purchase products and services at Costco.com and Costco gas stations.

A basic Gold Star or Business membership costs $60 per year, while a Gold Star Executive or Business Executive Membership costs $120 per year. Business memberships allow you to add additional people to your membership and purchase items for resale. Executive-level memberships, both personal and business, earn 2% rewards on eligible purchases, paid out annually.

You won’t be able to use your American Express, Mastercard, or Discover-issued cards at Costco as the retailer accepts only Visa for in-store shopping. If you shop online at Costco, however, you can use a wider variety of credit cards compared to in-store purchases.

Costco accepts the following forms of payment in-store:

  • Visa credit cards
  • Costco Shop Card (gift card)
  • Most PIN-enabled debit/ATM cards
  • Mobile wallet transactions including Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay that are not linked to Amex, Mastercard, or Discover cards
  • Cash or checks from an existing member
  • Traveler’s checks
  • Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards

And here are the payment methods accepted for Costco online purchases:

  • All Visa, Mastercard, and Discover cards
  • PIN-enabled debit cards and ATM cards
  • Costco Shop Cards (gift cards)

Finally, Costco gas stations accept Visa, PIN-enabled debit/ATM cards, and Costco Shop Cards gift cards.

Bottom Line: Costco warehouse clubs, gas stations, and Costco.com differ in the types of credit cards and payment methods accepted. You will not be able to use American Express, Discover, or Mastercard in-store at Costco or Costco gas stations, even via mobile-wallet transactions.

The 5 Best Personal Credit Cards for Shopping at Costco or Costco.com

First, we’ll walk you through our favorite personal credit cards for shopping at Costco warehouses and online at Costco.com.

Card Summary

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CardWelcome Bonus and Annual FeeBenefits for Costco Shopping
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
  • Earn 75,000 miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Annual fee of $395 (rates & fees)
  • Accepted both in-store and online
  • Unlimited 2x miles on all non-bonus purchases
  • Exceptional travel benefits
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
  • Earn 75,000 miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Annual fee of $95 (rates & fees)
  • Accepted both in-store and online
  • Unlimited 2x miles on all non-bonus purchases
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
  • Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That's 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
  • Annual fee of $0
  • Accepted both in-store and online
  • Unlimited 1.5% cash-back on all non-bonus purchases
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
  • No welcome offer available.
  • Annual fee of $0
  • Accepted both in-store and online
  • 4% cash-back at gas stations and EV charging purchases, including Costco
  • 2% cash-back at Costco and Costco.com
Honorable Mention: Citi Double Cash® Card
  • Earn $200 cash back after spending $1,500 in the first 6 months.
  • Annual fee of $0
  • Accepted online only
  • Unlimited 2% cash-back (1% when you buy and another 1% when you pay)

1. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Learn More(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
75,000 miles
$1,350
$395
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-840)

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

 

Pros

  • 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
  • 5x miles per $1 on flights purchased through Capital One Travel
  • 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
  • $300 annual travel credit on bookings made through Capital One Travel
  • Unlimited complimentary access for cardholder and 2 guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
  • 10,000 bonus miles awarded on your account anniversary each year
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Add authorized users for no additional annual fee (rates & fees)
  • No foreign transaction fees (rates & fees)

 

Cons

  • $395 annual fee (rates & fees)
  • Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

 

  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

The Capital One Venture X card is the best credit card you can use to earn top-shelf rewards at Costco and Costo.com.

Currently, the card earns as many as 10x Capital One miles on purchases:

  • 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel
  • 5x miles for flights booked through Capital One Travel
  • 2x miles on all other purchases

Ongoing benefits on this credit card include a 10,000-mile bonus after every cardmember anniversary, up to $300 Capital One Travel credit, complimentary access to Capital One Lounges and Plaza Premium Lounges for yourself and 2 guests, and a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership.

And we’re just getting started — the Capital One Venture X card has an application fee credit of up to $100 for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck, complimentary Hertz President’s Circle status, and superb travel insurance.

You’ll also notice that when you go shopping, you can protect yourself with purchase security, extended warranty, and cell phone protection.

There are no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees) with the Capital One Venture X card, and you can even add up to 4 authorized users for no additional fee (rates & fees).

Why We Like Earning Capital One Miles

Capital One miles are worth around 1.8 cents apiece according to our valuations, which means that your Costco and Costco.com spending will earn you a return on spending of 3.6%, which is industry-leading.

In addition, Capital One miles are easy to use, whether it’s for cash-back, statement credits, charitable donations, merchandise, Capital One Travel bookings, or gift cards.

But if you’re in the know, you’ll use your Capital One miles for award travel through airline and hotel transfer partners.

2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Learn More(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!
Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
75,000 miles
$1,350
$95
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent Credit (670-850)

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

Pros

  • 5x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
  • No foreign transaction fees (rates & fees)
  • Access to Capital One transfer partners

Cons

  • Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

The popular mid-tier Capital One Venture card, the little sibling of the Capital One Venture X card, offers most of the same benefits that people are looking for.

In the context of Costco, this Visa credit card can be used in-store and online, making it an attractive option if you’re looking for maximum rewards.

This card earns up to 5x miles as shown here:

  • 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • 2x miles on all other purchases

In short, the Capital One Venture card earns the same rewards at Costco as the ultra-premium Capital One Venture X card! When you earn 2x miles, it’s equivalent to a return on spending of around 3.6% according to our valuations.

The main difference is that the lower-tier card doesn’t offer luxury travel benefits, though it still offers up to $100 for the Global Entry/TSA Precheck application fee credit, purchase protection, and extended warranty.

3. Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!
Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That's 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
Up to $300 cash back
$0
0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is easily one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. There aren’t many no-annual-fee credit cards that offer multiple great bonus categories like 5% back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.

When paired with other Chase cards in the Ultimate Rewards family, you can transfer that cash back into points if you wish – making it one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet.

Pros

  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
  • 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Travel
  • 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases
  • 1.5% back on all other purchases
  • No annual fee
  • Earn big on travel purchased through Chase Travel
  • Everyday bonus on dining and drugstores
  • Straightforward cash-back on all other purchases
  • Ability to pool points

Cons

  • 3% foreign transaction fee
  • INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
  • Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
  • After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
  • Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
  • No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Freedom Unlimited card is one of the best no-annual-fee credit cards available. As a Visa credit card, the Freedom Unlimited card can help you shop with confidence at Costco stores and on Costco.com.

Remember, this impressive credit card offers up to 5% cash-back on your purchases:

  • 5% cash-back on travel booked through Chase Travel
  • 5% cash-back on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
  • 3% cash-back on dining
  • 3% cash-back at drugstores
  • 1.5% cash-back on all other purchases 

While you might not be impressed by a 1.5% rewards rate, the cash-back is earned in the form of Ultimate Rewards that can be transferred to premium Chase cards and redeemed for greater value for travel or transferred to Chase travel partners for potentially even more value!

Paired with the right credit cards, including the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card, you can convert your rewards from a 1.5% cash-back rate to a 3% return on spending.

Even so, the Freedom Unlimited card has a 0% introductory APR benefit (as shown in the table above), secondary auto rental collision damage insurance, purchase protection, extended warranty, zero liability fraud protection, no additional annual fees for authorized users, and fraud alerts.

Why We Like Earning Chase Ultimate Rewards Points

We mentioned above that you can convert your cash-back rewards to transferable Ultimate Rewards points with the right credit card — so how does that work?

It’s pretty simple — if you have an Ultimate Rewards-earning card, you can convert rewards from the Freedom Unlimited card at a 1% to 1x Ultimate Rewards points ratio.

Since we value Chase Ultimate Rewards points at 2 cents apiece, 1.5x points would equate to a 3% return on spending.

Once you have Ultimate Rewards points in your possession, you can transfer them to travel partners and use those points for luxury travel. This way, you’ll get tremendous redemption value.

But if you only have the Freedom Unlimited card, you can redeem your rewards for cash-back, Shop at Amazon, travel through Chase Travel, gift cards, and charitable donations.

4. Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Learn More(at our partner's secure site)
None
$0
20.49% Variable

The Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi is a great Citi’s cash-back rewards card designed specifically for Costco Members.

  • Discover one of Citi’s best cash back rewards cards designed exclusively for Costco members
  • 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
  • 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
  • 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
  • 1% cash back on all other purchases
  • No annual fee with your paid Costco membership and enjoy no foreign transaction fees on purchases
  • Receive an annual credit card reward certificate, which is redeemable for cash or merchandise at U.S. Costco warehouses, including Puerto Rico

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 20.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

The Costco Anywhere card is an obvious choice for shopping in-store. The card earns well on specific everyday purchases and purchases at Costco and Costco.com, but there are a few drawbacks to the card.

Here’s how the earnings are broken down:

  • 4% cash-back at gas stations and EV charging purchases, including Costco, up to $7,000 in purchases each year, then 1%
  • 3% cash-back at restaurants and on travel purchases
  • 2% cash-back at Costco and Costco.com
  • 1% cash-back on all other purchases

Although the credit card is light on benefits, you’ll still have purchase protection, no foreign transaction fees, and Visa credit card acceptance.

5. Honorable Mention: Citi Double Cash® Card

Citi Double Cash® Card

Citi Double Cash® Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Great card for the average spender with no specific focus category; worry-free cash-back earning on everything!

Learn More(at our partner's secure site)

Citi Double Cash® Card

Great card for the average spender with no specific focus category; worry-free cash-back earning on everything!
Earn $200 cash back after spending $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening.
$200 cash back
$0
19.24% - 29.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Fair to Excellent (580-850)

The Citi Double Cash® Card has long been one of the top cash-back credit cards on the market, and the card now has the ability to earn Citi ThankYou Points!

This means that cardholders of the Double Cash card will now earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. Cash back is earned in the form of ThankYou Points. This means each billing cycle, you will earn 1 ThankYou point per $1 spent on purchases and an additional ThankYou point for every $1 paid on your purchase balance as long as there is a corresponding balance in your Purchase Tracker.

Citi has turned the Double Cash card into a top choice for those who are looking for an everyday, no-fuss credit card.

Pros

  • Uncapped 2% for every $1 spent (1% when you buy and another 1% when you pay)
  • Flexible redemption options
  • No annual fee

Cons

  • No bonus categories
  • 3% foreign transaction fees
  • Lack of premium travel benefits
  • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
  • To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time.
  • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% – 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 19.24% - 29.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of the U.S. dollar amount of each purchase

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Citi ThankYou Rewards

Using the Double Cash card ensures every purchase you make at Costco online earns rewards. To us, it’s an honorable mention because although you can’t use this card in-store, online shopping at Costco.com is possible with Mastercard products.

The Double Cash card earns 2% cash-back on every purchase (1% when you buy and 1% when you pay, earned as ThankYou Points).

It also has a 0% introductory APR offer (as shown in the table above), flexible pay dates, fraud protection, zero liability for unauthorized purchases, and no annual fees for authorized users.

Why We Like Earning Citi ThankYou Rewards Points

Citi ThankYou Points are yet another type of valuable transferable points.

If you don’t have a separate ThankYou Rewards credit card besides the Double Cash card, you can only redeem your points for gift cards, travel through the Citi Travel Portal, cash-back, and limited transfer partners.

But if you have the Citi Premier® Card or the Citi Prestige® Card, you can transfer your points to any available transfer partner for luxury travel experiences like Emirates business class and British Airways first class.

With that being said, we value Citi ThankYou Points at 1.6 cents apiece, making a 2x earning structure equivalent to a 3.2% return on spending.

Hot Tip: Regardless of your credit card’s purchase protection, return protection, or extended warranty coverage, Costco offers a risk-free 100% satisfaction guarantee on nearly everything it sells. 

The 3 Best Business Credit Cards for Shopping at Costco or Costco.com

Here are some of the best business cards that earn rewards when shopping at Costco, whether it’s online or in-store:

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CardWelcome Bonus and Annual FeeBenefits for Costco Shopping
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
  • Earn $750 cash back after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months.
  • Annual fee of $0
  • Accepted both in-store and online
  • Unlimited 1.5% cash-back on all purchases
  • 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card
  • Earn $1,500 cash back once you spend $20,000 in the first 3 months, and an additional $1,500 once you spend $100,000 in the first 6 months.
  • Annual fee of $150
  • Accepted both in-store and online
  • Unlimited 2% cash-back on every non-bonus purchase with no caps
  • No preset spending limit
Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi
  • No welcome offer available.
  • Annual fee of $0
  • Accepted both in-store and online
  • 2% cash-back at gas stations, including Costco
  • 2% cash-back at Costco and Costco.com

1. Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Ink Business Unlimited card is a stellar option for business owners looking for a no-fuss uncapped 1.5% cash-back card without an annual fee.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

The Ink Business Unlimited card is a stellar option for business owners looking for a no-fuss uncapped 1.5% cash-back card without an annual fee.
Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
$750
$750
$0
0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

As a business owner, you likely keep pretty busy and probably prefer a credit card that just keeps things simple.

If so, the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card might be just the card for you. From zero annual fee to a flat cash-back rate, the card is a no-frills option that you don’t have to think twice about.

Don’t forget too, 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter

Pros

  • 1.5% cash-back on all purchases
  • No annual fee
  • 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
  • Employee cards at no additional cost
  • Earn flexible rewards

Cons

  • 3% foreign transaction fee
  • Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
  • No Annual Fee
  • Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
  • Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
  • With Zero Liability you won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
  • 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Our top pick for the best business credit card at Costco and Costco.com is the Ink Business Unlimited card, which is issued by Chase.

It earns up to 5% cash-back:

  • 5% cash-back on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
  • 1.5% cash-back on all other purchases

Since the 1.5% cash-back can be converted to 1.5x Ultimate Rewards points if you also hold an Ultimate Rewards-earning card, the rewards would equate to a 3% return on spending.

The Ink Business Unlimited card has a 0% introductory APR period, primary rental car insurance, zero liability fraud protection, extended warranty, purchase protection, and no-additional-fee employee cards.

2. Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card

Capital One Spark Cash Plus CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus card offers an unlimited 2% cash-back on all purchases and helpful features for business owners.

Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus card offers an unlimited 2% cash-back on all purchases and helpful features for business owners.
Earn $1,200 cash back once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months
$1,200
$150
N/A
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-850)

The information regarding the Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.


The Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card is great for business owners looking to improve their bottom line by earning 2% cash-back on all purchases without a high annual fee. Further, with no preset spending limit, the ability to get your $150 annual fee refunded every year you spend at least $150,000, and no-additional-fee employee cards, there is something that every business owner will love (rates & fees).

Pros

  • Unlimited 2% cash-back on all purchases
  • 5% cash-back on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
  • No preset spending limit
  • Get your $150 annual fee refunded every year you spend at least $150,000 (rates & fees)
  • No foreign transaction fees (rates & fees)
  • Extended warranty coverage
  • Payment flexibility (pick your own due date)

Cons

  • Earn a one-time cash bonus of $1,200 once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months
  • Earn unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
  • Comes with no preset spending limit, so it can adapt to your needs based on your spending behavior, payment history and credit profile
  • Get your $150 annual fee refunded every year you spend at least $150,000
  • Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Add employee cards for free, and earn unlimited 2% cash back from their purchases
  • $150 annual fee
  • Spark Cash Plus has no APR because your balance is due in full every month

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: N/A
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Our runner-up is Capital One’s new business charge card, the Capital One Spark Cash Plus card, which is attractive for a few reasons.

Beyond the sizable welcome bonus, you’ll want to sign up for this card if you’re looking for unlimited 2% cash-back with no preset spending limit. You’ll also get an unlimited 5% cash-back on rental cars and hotels booked through Capital One Travel.

Hot Tip: The Capital One Spark Cash Plus card refunds your $150 annual fee every year you spend at least $150,000!

Standard benefits apply, including purchase protection, extended warranty, no foreign transaction fees, and employee cards for no additional annual fee.

3. Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi

Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi

Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Earn 4% cash-back on gas/EV charging purchases, 3% cash-back at restaurants and travel, 2% cash-back at Costco, and 1% on all other purchases.

Learn More(at our partner's secure site)

Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi

Earn 4% cash-back on gas/EV charging purchases, 3% cash-back at restaurants and travel, 2% cash-back at Costco, and 1% on all other purchases.
None
$0
20.49% Variable
  • Discover the only business credit card designed exclusively for Costco members
  • 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
  • 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
  • 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
  • 1% cash back on all other purchases
  • No annual fee with your paid Costco membership and enjoy no foreign transaction fees on purchases
  • Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, enjoy no foreign transaction fees on purchases
  • Receive an annual credit card reward certificate, which is redeemable for cash or merchandise at U.S. Costco warehouses, including Puerto Rico

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 20.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

It’s always good to keep business and personal purchases separate. Fortunately, in addition to the personal card, Citi offers the Costco Anywhere Business card.

Like the personal Costco Anywhere card, the Costco Anywhere Business card comes with the same bonus category earnings, redemption options, benefits, and no annual fee.

Also, like the personal Costco Anywhere card, you must have a Costco membership to be approved.

There’s no welcome offer for the card, and cash-back earnings are paid out just once per year in-store. You can accept your cash-back earnings in the form of store credit or cash.

Final Thoughts

Shopping at wholesale clubs can save you a lot of money. Earning rewards while saving money can be a beneficial double-dip when you select the right card for your purchases.

If you spend significantly at wholesale clubs such as Costco, select a card that maximizes those earnings, but ideally, one that would also align with your overall spending mix.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Enrollment required through Capital One website or mobile app. Upon enrollment, eligible cardholders will remain at upgraded status level through December 31, 2024.  Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier.  Additional terms apply.

The information regarding the Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information for the Citi Prestige® Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best credit card for Costco purchases?

The best credit card for in-store Costco purchases will be a Visa-issued credit card, as the retailer does not accept American Express, Mastercard, or Discover cards in-store.

The best personal credit cards are the Capital One Venture X card, Capital One Venture card, Freedom Unlimited card, Costco Anywhere card, and Double Cash card (only for online Costco purchases).

The best business credit cards are the Ink Business Unlimited card, Capital One Spark Cash Plus card, and Costco Anywhere Business card.

Costco.com accepts Mastercard and Discover cards, which broadens your choice of payment options.

Any card that earns multiple points on categories that align with your spending mix, offers redemption options you prefer, and has benefits you can use is worth considering for Costco purchases.

How does the Costco Anywhere card work?

To qualify for a Costco Anywhere card, you must have an active Costco membership. The card is good anywhere Visa is accepted and earns rewards on every purchase. There is no annual fee.

Bonus earning categories include grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and Costco. Rewards accumulate and are paid out in-store once per year. You can select to receive your rewards in cash or store credit.

What payment methods are accepted at Costco?

Costco stores, Costco.com, and Costco gas stations all accept different forms of payment.

Costco stores accept all Visa cards, Costco gift cards, most ATM/debit cards, mobile wallet, cash or member’s checks, traveler’s checks, and EBT cards.

Costco.com accepts additional forms of payment, including Mastercard and Discover cards.

Costco gas stations accept Visa, Costco gift cards, and most ATM/debit cards.

Do I have to be a member to get a Costco credit card?

Yes, you must have an active Costco membership to be approved for a Costco Anywhere card or Costco Anywhere Business card.

Does Costco count as a grocery store on your credit card?

No. Most credit card issuers do not categorize wholesale clubs as supermarket or grocery purchases.

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About Stephen Au

Stephen is an established voice in the credit card space, with over 70 to his name. His work has been in publications like The Washington Post, and his Au Points and Awards Consulting Services is used by hundreds of clients.

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