How Strict Are Costco's Checkout Policies?

If you've ever made the mistake of going to Costco on an insanely busy weekend, then you know how chaotic it can be. That's why it's good to bring someone with you on those crazy shopping days. Luckily, there are two membership perks you can utilize to do just that. The first being that every member is allowed to bring up to two adult guests. This means you can make the most of your Costco haul and bring a friend, coworker, or family member. And the second is you and another member of your household can each have a membership card. That means you and your partner or spouse can shop at Costco and enjoy the food court food as much as you like. However, this perk does come with a caveat. You can only make purchases if the name on the membership card also matches the name on the form of payment you plan on using.

This policy is easy to follow when you bring a guest that doesn't have a Costco membership. However, this could complicate the checkout process for couples who share the same bank account. With shared accounts, only one name appears on the bank card. And if your name isn't the one present on the card, a cashier will most likely ask you for another form of payment. The same thing will happen if you go to the self checkout line, your payment will be declined and you'll be asked to try the payment method again. 

The best way to avoid this checkout mishap is to come prepared. If you know your partner plans to shop frequently with your Costco card, go ahead and add them as an authorized household member on your Costco membership. You can do this online, and it provides your partner with all the same membership perks. Plus, if their name is added to the account, then they can make purchases with their credit card regardless of if you share a last name or not. 

Just know that Costco doesn't accept all forms of payment. Currently, they accept all Visa cards, most pin-based debit and ATM cards, and personal checks from current members. They also accept traveler's checks, EBT cards, the Costco Shop Card and a few other non-conventional payment methods. And these options get extremely limited if you plan to shop online. And, unfortunately, the same applies to Costco gas stations. You need a Costco membership and an acceptable form of payment to pump at their stations.