The company says a single QR code scan will capture both membership and payment information so a cashier can complete the sale in one step.
How the Costco digital wallet works
The feature ties two app elements together: the Digital Membership Card and a linked Visa payment method. Members open the Costco app, pull up the Digital Membership Card, and display the QR code at the register.
When the QR code is scanned, Costco says the checkout links the membership ID and the Visa card on file so the cashier can process payment in one interaction. In short, the app acts as both membership verification and a mobile payment token.
Where it applies and limits
This digital payment option applies to purchases made inside Costco warehouses only. Costco has specified the rollout is for warehouse checkout and excludes the food court.
Members should expect the one-scan payment to work at standard register lanes that accept the Digital Membership Card workflow. Other exceptions or limitations may apply depending on location and lane setup.
Member benefits and caveats
Costco lists member-facing benefits: faster checkouts, not needing to carry an extra physical card at the register, and managing Visa card information within the app. The company also references cash rewards tied to Visa card purchases.
Those benefits are stated by Costco and are not independently verified here. Readers should review card reward terms and any posted exclusions before assuming specific cash-back rates or other financial incentives.
How to set it up in the Costco app
Adding a Visa to the Costco digital wallet is a quick process inside the Costco app. Typical steps are:
- Open the Costco app and sign in to your member account.
- Tap to view your Digital Membership Card.
- Choose the option to add or manage payment methods and select to add a Visa card.
- Enter your Visa card details and confirm. The card will be linked to the Digital Membership Card.
After setup, pull up the Digital Membership Card QR code at the register. A single scan should register both membership and the linked Visa for payment where the program is supported.
Source and next steps for members
Costco announced the change and described the update as “a fast and efficient form of payment.” The company said, “For your convenience, you can now add any Visa card to your Digital Membership Card for easy check out at Costco warehouses.”
Costco CEO Ron Vachris also noted recent app enhancements, including improvements to the mobile wallet and the digital membership card with quick access on the Costco app.
Members who plan to use the new feature should verify availability at their local warehouse, confirm which lanes support the Digital Membership Card workflow, and review any terms or reward details tied to their Visa card. Individual experiences may vary, and Costco’s statements about faster checkout and rewards are company claims not independently verified here.
Source: Fox Business. Reporting includes comments from Ron Vachris and Costco’s announcement.
FAQ
Can I use any Visa with the Costco digital wallet?
Yes. Costco says members can add any Visa card to the Digital Membership Card in the app. Confirm card eligibility and any issuer restrictions with your card provider.
Will the digital payment work at the food court?
No. Costco has stated the digital payment option is for warehouse purchases and explicitly excludes the food court.
How do I link my Visa in the Costco app?
Open the Costco app, access your Digital Membership Card, choose to add or manage payment methods, and enter your Visa card details. Once saved, the card is linked and can be used when the QR code is scanned at checkout.
