Costco App Payment System: Everything You Need to Know in 2026
The Costco app payment system makes shopping faster by combining your digital membership card, payment method, and purchase history in one place. Instead of carrying a physical membership card, members can use the Costco app to enter warehouses, identify themselves at checkout, and in many locations, complete purchases using their phone.
In 2026, Costco has continued improving its mobile payment experience. The app now supports digital membership cards, warehouse receipts, and mobile payment options. Recent updates have also expanded support for additional Visa cards in the Costco Wallet for many users, making mobile checkout even more convenient.
What Is the Costco App Payment System?
The Costco app payment system is a mobile feature that allows members to:
- Store their digital Costco membership card
- Add an eligible payment card
- Pay directly from the app at participating warehouse checkouts
- View digital receipts
- Manage online orders and account information
Instead of scanning a membership card and then pulling out a wallet, eligible members can complete both steps using their smartphone.
How the Costco App Payment Process Works
Using the payment system is simple:
- Download the Costco app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Sign in with your Costco account.
- Verify your membership.
- Open your Digital Membership Card.
- Add an eligible payment card to Costco Wallet.
- Scan your membership barcode at checkout.
- Select the stored payment option to complete your purchase.
The process reduces the need to carry both your membership card and payment card during warehouse shopping.
What Payment Methods Does Costco Accept?
Costco accepts several payment methods, although they differ between warehouses and online shopping.
| Payment Method | U.S. Warehouses | Costco.com |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Credit Cards | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Costco Anywhere Visa® by Citi | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Mastercard | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| PIN Debit Cards | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Apple Pay | ✅ Yes | No |
| Google Pay | ✅ Yes | No |
| Samsung Pay | ✅ Yes | No |
| Cash | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Costco Shop Cards | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Personal Checks | ✅ Members Only | ❌ No |
| EBT | ✅ Eligible Purchases | ❌ No |
Costco warehouses in the United States continue to accept Visa credit cards only for credit card transactions, while Costco.com accepts both Visa and Mastercard. If you’re planning a warehouse visit, be sure to check the latest Costco Food Court Menu to explore current pizza, hot dog, sandwich, dessert, and drink prices before you shop.
Can You Pay Directly Through the Costco App?
Yes.
Eligible members can link a supported payment card to their Costco Wallet and use the app during checkout.
Previously, this feature was limited mainly to the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi. However, many members report that recent app updates now allow additional Visa cards to be added, depending on the app version and account. Costco has not yet broadly announced this feature, but many users have confirmed it after updating the app.
Does Costco Accept Apple Pay and Google Pay?
Yes.
At U.S. warehouse locations, Costco accepts:
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
- Samsung Pay
These digital wallets work as long as the linked card is an accepted payment method, such as a Visa credit card or eligible debit card.
Can You Use the Costco App at the Food Court?
The answer depends on your location and app version.
Costco previously stated that in-app payment was not available at food courts. However, many shoppers have recently reported successfully paying at some warehouse food courts using the Costco Wallet after newer app updates. Availability appears to be rolling out gradually and may vary by warehouse.
Digital Membership Card Benefits
Besides payments, the Costco app provides several useful features:
- Digital membership card
- Warehouse purchase receipts
- Online order tracking
- Membership renewal
- Pharmacy information
- Shopping lists
- Warehouse locator
- Fuel station information
These tools eliminate the need to carry paper receipts or your physical membership card.
Is the Costco App Payment System Secure?
Yes.
The app requires members to:
- Sign into their Costco account.
- Verify their identity during setup.
- Authenticate using their phone’s security features when necessary.
Payment information is stored securely, and Costco uses encrypted connections for account management and payment processing.
Is Costco Testing Faster Mobile Checkout?
Yes.
Costco is testing new checkout technology designed to reduce waiting times.
The company has been piloting systems where employees scan items while customers wait in line, followed by a quick payment at automated stations. Costco has also tested Scan-and-Go style technology that could further streamline warehouse shopping in the future, although these features are not yet available nationwide.
Common Costco App Payment Issues
Some members occasionally experience payment problems, including:
- Outdated app versions
- Payment card not syncing
- Digital membership verification errors
- Temporary server issues
If payment fails:
- Update the Costco app.
- Sign out and back in.
- Remove and re-add your payment card.
- Verify your membership is active.
- Contact Costco Member Services if the issue continues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay with my phone at Costco?
Yes. Costco warehouses accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and eligible payments through the Costco app.
Does Costco accept Mastercard in stores?
No. U.S. Costco warehouses accept Visa credit cards only, although Mastercard is accepted for purchases made on Costco.com.
Can I use the Costco app instead of my membership card?
Yes. The Digital Membership Card inside the Costco app can be used to enter warehouses and check out.
Does the Costco app save receipts?
Yes. The app stores digital receipts for warehouse and online purchases, making returns and expense tracking much easier.
Can I add multiple payment cards?
Many users can now add eligible Visa cards after updating the app, although supported options may vary by account and region.
