Costco, founded in 1983, is the members-only warehouse club famous for bulk goods and, of course, its food court. Everyone's talking about how Costco's $1.50 hot dog is holding the line against inflation, but maybe the annual fee isn't fitting your budget anymore. With membership prices ranging from $60 to $120, you can save up to $120 a year by canceling. This guide covers how to cancel whether you're online, on your phone, or willing to go to the store.
How to Cancel Costco Membership Subscription on Online (Desktop)
Okay, let's get one thing straight. You can't actually cancel your membership online for an immediate refund. It's a bit frustrating. What you can do is turn off auto-renewal so you don't get charged again next year. If you want a full, immediate cancellation and your money back, you have to call them or go in person.
1 Log Into Your Account
Head over to Costco.com and get signed into your account. You'll need your email and password for this.
2 Navigate to Account Details
Once you're in, find your name in the top-right corner. Click it and choose 'Account Details' from the menu that appears.
3 Find Your Membership Info
On your account page, you should see a section for 'Membership Information.' This is where your renewal date and other details live.
4 Turn Off Auto-Renewal
Look for the 'Auto Renew' setting. Click the link to manage it and then select 'Off.' This action stops the next charge, but your membership will remain active until its expiration date.
How to Cancel Costco Membership Subscription on In-Person at a Warehouse
Honestly, this is the best and most direct way to cancel. You get it done and have your refund in hand immediately. The only downside is you might have to wait in line, especially if you go on a busy weekend afternoon.
1 Visit Any Costco Location
You can walk into any Costco warehouse. It doesn't have to be the one where you originally signed up.
2 Go to the Membership Counter
Head straight for the membership or customer service counter. It's almost always located near the entrance or exit. If you can't spot it, just ask one of the employees.
3 Ask to Cancel Your Membership
Simply tell the employee you want to cancel your membership. They handle this all the time, so it's a straightforward process.
4 Provide Your Card and ID
They will ask for your Costco membership card and likely a photo ID to confirm you are the account owner.
5 Receive Your Instant Refund
The employee will process the cancellation and give you a full refund for your membership fee right there. You'll walk out with a receipt as proof. Done.
How to Cancel Costco Membership Subscription on By Phone
If you can't get to a store, calling is your next best option. My advice? Call mid-morning on a weekday to avoid the worst of the hold times. I tried calling after work once and the wait was just ridiculous.
1 Call Member Services
Grab your phone and dial their member services line at 1-800-774-2678. Have your membership card handy.
2 Navigate the Phone Menu
You'll have to listen to the automated menu. Press the options for 'Membership' and then to 'Speak to an Agent.' Sometimes it feels like they hide that option.
3 Request to Cancel
Once you finally get a human on the line, just state that you'd like to cancel your Costco membership.
4 Verify Your Account Information
They will need to verify it's you. Be ready to provide your membership number, full name, and the address associated with your account.
5 Confirm the Cancellation
Before you hang up, make sure you ask for a confirmation number or an email as proof of cancellation. It's always good to have a record.
Cancel Costco Membership Subscription with phone
Call Member Services at 1-800-774-2678. Their hours are typically Monday to Friday, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT, and Saturday to Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT. Be prepared for potential hold times, especially around lunchtime or right after 5 p.m.
Costco has a legendary satisfaction guarantee. You can cancel your membership at any time and get a full refund for the current year's fee. No prorated nonsense. Just remember, when you cancel, you also lose any accumulated 2% rewards if you're an Executive member. So, maybe check that balance before you pull the plug.
Costco Membership Plans and Pricing 2025
| Plan | Annual Fee | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Star Membership | $60 | Includes two membership cards and provides access to all Costco warehouses worldwide and Costco.com. This is the standard, no-frills option. |
| Executive Membership | $120 | Includes all Gold Star benefits plus an annual 2% reward on qualified Costco purchases (up to $1,000). You also get additional benefits and greater savings on other Costco services. |
Frequently Asked Questions about Costco Membership
Can I unsubscribe from Costco Membership anytime?
Can I get a refund from Costco Membership if I forgot to cancel?
How do I know my Costco Membership subscription is cancelled?
How long does it take for Costco Membership to cancel?
What else should I know before I cancel my Costco Membership subscription?
How do I raise a complaint to Costco Membership?
Olivia Harper
Content Manager
Olivia Harper, a Content Manager with nine years of experience, creates user-focused guides on subscription services. Featured in Digital Consumer Reports, her work simplifies subscription terms and cancellations.
