If you don’t already have a membership to Costco, you’re missing out on some seriousΒ money-saving opportunities! And even if you do have a membership, there are some perks that you may not realize come included with your annual fee.
For $55 a year, you get access to some great deals, including these nine items that will single-handedly pay for your membership. But what many people don’t realize is that you also get access to extra perks that can save you some big bucks!
RELATED:Β See all the latest Costco deals
11 secret perks of a Costco membership
1. Low-costΒ prescriptions (FYI: You don’t actually have to be a member to get these low prices!)
Yes, Costco has a pharmacy andΒ it may be able to save you a lot of money βΒ especially as prescription drug prices continue to rise.
According to a recent report from Consumer Reports, prescription prices can varyΒ significantly evenΒ at retailersΒ in the same area. AΒ woman inΒ Raleigh, N.C., found that oneΒ month’s worth of generic CymbaltaΒ was going toΒ cost herΒ $249 at a Walgreens — and onlyΒ $43 at Costco.Β CR says the pharmacist at Walgreens did suggest the woman sign up for the store’s discount program, which would have lowered the price to $220, but that program also comes with a $20 annual fee.Β
This is a great example of why you should always shop around for the best price. You may just find that getting your prescriptions at Costco can save you some serious cash over time.
RELATED: 4 ways to save on prescriptions
2. Discounted tickets, passes andΒ gift cards
You don’tΒ have to buy everything in bulk at Costco. A membership to the warehouse club comes with access to discounted theme park passes, movie tickets and a wide range of gift cards to local restaurants and more.
RELATED: 7 places you can get free gift cards with your purchases
3. Cheap meals
Where else can you get a hot dog and refillable fountain drink for only $1.50? And we’re talking aboutΒ goodΒ hot dogs! So if you want to save on a quick meal, just pop into Costco for lunch or dinner!
RELATED: 17 things you didn’t know about Costco
4. Β Travel
A membership to Costco gives you access to the company’sΒ travel program, which offers discounts on flights, hotels, rental cars and even cruises!
Check it out at CostcoTravel.com.
5. Β Free health screenings
Costco also offers its members free health screenings! Here are a few that are included:
- Osteoporosis screeningΒ
- Healthy heart screening
- Lung health screening
- Diabetes screening
See more details and the full schedule of upcoming available screenings here.
6. Low-priced gas
Depending on the current price of gas, filling up at Costco could save you enough to cover your annual membership fee. And gas stations are now available at all Costco locations!
RELATED: Buying gas from a station on this list is better for your car
7. Insurance
A lot of people don’t realize that CostcoΒ offers insurance options for things like life insurance, health insurance, dental, visionΒ and even auto insurance.
Check out Costco’s insurance marketplace for more information on these services.
8. Great deals on tires
If you boughtΒ tires anywhere besides at a warehouse club, you probably paid too much. Costco offers great prices and servicesΒ on tires that are hard to beat. Plus,Β Costco often discounts certain name brand tires by as much as $70 to $80 — which can easily cover your annual fee.
9. Payroll and accounting services
If you’re running a small business (or not) and need help with record keeping an even payroll, check outΒ Costco’s services. It could save you big bucks on these expenses
Read more: 5 things to always buy at a warehouse club
10. Free tech support
A Costco membership comes with free tech support, so when you buy any electronics, appliances, cameras and other products that you may need help setting up or troubleshooting issues, Costco experts are standing by to provide free assistance!
On its website, Costco outlines a few of the services offered:
- Speak with expert level technicians
- Enjoy easy-to-understand answers to your set-up and product use questions
- Get troubleshooting assistance
- Receive assistance purchasing TV setup/installation at Costco.com.
- Obtain warranty information and assistance
11. Business & Personal Checks
Costco offers customized business and personal checks for about 50% of the cost at traditional banks.
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