Families looking for savings on holiday gifts and everyday essentials have a new incentive at Costco. Starting now, anyone who signs up for a Costco Gold Star membership—or upgrades to an Executive Gold Star membership—will receive a $45 digital Costco Shop Card that can be used on future purchases.
How the deal works
The standard Gold Star membership costs $65 per year and grants access to Costco’s worldwide warehouses, online shopping, gas stations, and member‑only pricing on groceries, cleaning supplies, clothing, electronics, and more. New members who enroll before December 20, 2026 will be emailed a $45 digital Shop Card within two weeks of redemption, providing immediate spending power for the first year.
Executive Gold Star upgrade
For $130 a year, the Executive Gold Star membership includes everything in the standard tier plus additional perks. Members earn an annual 2% reward on Costco and Costco Travel purchases—up to $1,250 per year—that can be applied toward future Costco spending. Executive members also enjoy early shopping hours, extra benefits on Costco Travel packages, and a $10 monthly credit for eligible same‑day delivery orders of $150 or more through Costco’s Instacart‑powered service. Like the standard tier, the Executive upgrade also comes with the $45 digital Shop Card for new members.
Eligibility and redemption
To qualify for the promotion, shoppers must not have held a Costco membership in the previous 18 months. The membership must be purchased by December 20, 2026, and the digital Shop Card must be redeemed by January 31, 2027. After redemption, the card can be applied to any Costco purchase, whether in‑store or online.
Why the offer matters for families
Costco’s bulk pricing, affordable gasoline, and member‑only discounts have long made it a go‑to destination for families seeking value. The added $45 credit effectively reduces the net cost of the first year’s membership, giving households extra flexibility for holiday shopping, back‑to‑school supplies, or everyday needs.
Additional savings opportunities
Beyond the membership incentive, Costco regularly features limited‑time promotions on electronics, appliances, and other high‑ticket items. Shoppers can combine the $45 Shop Card with these deals for even greater savings.
For more details and to sign up, visit the original deal page or go directly to Costco’s membership portal.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
