Costco customers are calling on the retail giant to crack down on shoppers who violate store policies by using membership cards that don’t belong to them. The calls for stricter enforcement include suggestions to revoke memberships for repeated offenders.
The controversy centers on Costco’s policy that only the registered member can use their card for purchases. Despite this, some customers continue to attempt transactions using a partner’s or family member’s card—something that sparked a heated dispute at one location, according to a widely shared social media post.
“I was at the registers paying for my items when a man at the next register started arguing with the cashier about using his wife’s card,” one shopper wrote in a Costco community group. “She told him that his wife needed to be present to use the card. He got upset and rude about it. Honestly, stop embarrassing yourself—these employees are just doing their jobs.”
The post quickly gained traction online, with some applauding the cashier for following the rules and calling for tougher consequences.
“You might need to start revoking memberships for people who keep doing this,” one commenter wrote. “If the member can’t shop, they should transfer the membership or add a second card for their spouse. It’s not that complicated.”
However, others felt the policy was too strict.
“That’s ridiculous,” one commenter argued. “They’re married. Just check if the address matches. The poor guy waited in line, did all his shopping, and then was told he couldn’t pay. It’s unfair.”
Costco’s policy requires that all purchases be made by the named member on the card, although they may bring up to two guests. The company enforces this rule to prevent misuse and ensure the integrity of its membership-based model.
New Membership Scanning System
In response to ongoing misuse, Costco recently introduced a new scanning system at store entrances. Shoppers are now required to scan either their physical or digital membership card at a scanner rather than simply showing it to an employee.
A company update released in August 2024 explained the change:
“Over the coming months, membership scanning devices will be used at the entrance door of your local warehouse. All members must scan their card before entry. Guests must be accompanied by a valid member, and any questions can be directed to the door attendant.”
If a shopper’s card is expired, inactive, or missing a photo, staff may ask for a valid photo ID or direct them to the membership counter.
Digital Membership Cards Now Accepted
Costco has also updated its payment and membership systems to allow digital access. Customers can now add their Costco card to a digital wallet, removing the need to carry a physical card.
Despite the policy updates and digital improvements, the ongoing tension over membership enforcement shows no signs of slowing. Costco has not yet issued a comment in response to recent customer concerns.
