Costco Anywhere Visa Review: The Good, The Bad, and What to Expect
Imagine earning rewards on every purchase, whether you’re filling up your gas tank, dining out, or even shopping online. The Costco Anywhere Visa makes this a reality, offering cash back on almost all your daily expenses. If you’re a regular Costco shopper, this card could be a game-changer in maximizing your rewards.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 with Costco membership |
| Cash Back on Gas | 4% (up to $7,000 annually, then 1%) |
| Cash Back on Restaurants & Travel | 3% |
| Cash Back on Costco Purchases | 2% |
| Other Purchases | 1% cash back |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 0% |
| APR | 19.99% Variable |
Best for: Frequent Costco shoppers who love earning cash back.
Skip if: You don’t shop at Costco or prefer travel-focused rewards.
Performance
In the months I’ve used the Costco Anywhere Visa, the cash back rewards have added up significantly. For someone who commutes daily and frequently dines out, the 4% on gas and 3% on restaurants have been particularly lucrative. The card keeps track of categories seamlessly, so you don’t have to juggle multiple cards for different expenses. Just remember, the 4% back on gas is capped at $7,000 annually, but hitting this limit would require a hefty fuel budget.
Design & Build
The card itself is sturdy, with a sleek design featuring the Costco logo. It’s instantly recognizable, which sometimes garners a knowing nod from fellow Costco enthusiasts. The card’s build quality is comparable to other premium credit cards, and it has withstood daily use without noticeable wear. It’s worth noting that this card doubles as your Costco membership ID, adding convenience when shopping in-store.
Value for Money
The value proposition of the Costco Anywhere Visa is clear: there’s no annual fee as long as you maintain a Costco membership. If you’re already a member, you’re essentially getting a high-reward cash back card for free. The foreign transaction fee of 0% is a standout feature, making this card a strong choice for international travelers. However, the rewards are only issued annually, which might be a downside if you prefer more frequent redemptions.
✅ What We Like
- High cash back on gas and dining.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Acts as a Costco membership card.
- No annual fee with membership.
- Easy reward tracking.
❌ What Could Be Better
- Annual cash back redemption.
- Limited to Costco members.
- High APR for carried balances.
One aspect often overlooked is the card’s integration with Costco’s ecosystem. It acts as your membership ID, streamlining your shopping experience. However, the annual cash back redemption can be a letdown for those who prefer quicker access to their rewards.
Should You Buy the Costco Anywhere Visa?
If you’re a frequent Costco shopper and love the idea of earning cash back on everyday purchases, the Costco Anywhere Visa is a solid choice. It offers excellent rewards on gas and dining and adds convenience by doubling as your membership card. Just be mindful of the annual redemption policy. For those who travel abroad, the 0% foreign transaction fee is a significant plus. Overall, it provides great value for no additional cost beyond your membership, but if you’re not a Costco regular, the benefits might not outweigh the limitations.
Does the Costco Anywhere Visa work internationally?
Yes, it does, and it has no foreign transaction fees, which makes it ideal for international travel.
How does the annual cash back redemption work?
Cash back rewards accumulate throughout the year and are issued as an annual reward certificate for redemption at Costco.
Is this card compatible with digital wallets?
Yes, the Costco Anywhere Visa is compatible with most major digital wallets, including Apple Pay and Google Pay.
What should I do if I lose my card?
If you lose your card, contact Citi customer service immediately to report it and request a replacement.
