Don't Set Foot in Costco Without This in Your Wallet

Costco is different from just about any other store. When you're a new member, you may not know about all the quirks of shopping there. For the most part, you can learn as you go, but there's an important rule every Costco member should know.

While most stores accept all credit cards, Costco warehouses don't. Because of Costco's rules, there's only one type of credit card you'll be able to use there.

Bring a Visa credit card when you shop at Costco

If you want to pay with a credit card at Costco, it needs to be a Visa. Costco warehouses don't accept American Express, Mastercard, or Discover credit cards. They do accept most PIN-based debit cards.

The rules are the same at Costco gas stations. For purchases at Costco.com, Mastercard credit cards are also accepted, but you still can't use American Express or Discover.

To see which type of credit card you have, check the card itself. Each credit card includes the logo of its payment network. It's normally in the bottom-right corner on the front of the card, although this isn't always the case. Some credit cards have different designs, so the exact position varies.

If you don't have a Visa credit card, or if you'd like to get a new one, there are lots of options available. Click here to see our curated list of the best credit cards to use at Costco. You'll find cards with big bonus opportunities and high rewards rates on Costco spending.

Why you should pay with a credit card at Costco

You could pay with your debit card, cash, or by check at Costco. Visa credit cards aren't your only option, but they are your best option. Here's why.

• You could earn rewards on your spending. Depending on the card, you could earn either cash back to boost your savings or travel points to use for your next trip.
• It builds your credit. When you use a credit card regularly and pay your bill on time, it helps increase your credit score.
• You could get extra protections on your purchases. Costco is famous for its amazing return policy, but some credit cards offer even more protections. Many cards include extended warranty coverage and purchase protection against damage or theft.

These are all benefits that you won't get with other payment methods. Some debit cards earn cash back, but they don't earn nearly as much as you could get with a cash back credit card.

With the benefits that credit cards offer, it makes sense to use them for all your purchases. But this is only a good idea if you're sure that you'll pay your credit card bill in full every month. If you don't pay in full, your card issuer will charge you interest.

Costco's payment rules are unique, but they're not too hard to follow. Lots of credit cards are Visa cards, so you're not short on options. Make sure you have one in your wallet, and you'll be good to go when you check out. And to save as much as possible, make sure to check out the No. 1 strategy for saving money at Costco.