Latest news with #CostcoGoldStarMembership

Business Insider
13 hours ago
- Business Insider
Sorry, you can't use your Costco membership card to get through TSA
"Can't fly on hotdogs and hope." That's according to the Transportation Security Administration, which recently posted on social media to let Americans know they cannot, in fact, use their Costco membership cards in place of a Real ID. "We love hotdogs & rotisserie chickens as much as the next person but plz stop telling people their Costco card counts as a REAL ID because it absolutely does not," TSA said in an X post on June 4. In a follow-up post on Instagram, the agency said a Costco Gold Star Membership card might get you a 48-pack of toilet paper and other goodies the warehouse retailer is known for, but "it won't get you through a TSA checkpoint." "We get it, you're a bulk-buying boss, the executive of excess, the sultan of samples. But unless your $1.50 hot dog has a passport, you're gonna need a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID to fly," the post said. The posts from TSA, which is known to have a tongue-in-cheek social media presence, came after Real ID requirements were set to take effect in May. Americans were scrambling ahead of the May 7 deadline to secure a Real ID, which the Department of Homeland Security had previously said would be required to fly domestically from that date. However, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that Americans would still be able to fly without a Real ID for the time being. TSA's website currently says that travelers without a Real ID — or an alternative form of acceptable identification, like a passport — will be notified of their noncompliance and could be subject to additional screening at the airport. list.


Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Costco Membership Card not accepted as valid ID at TSA checkpoints
Costco Card not a substitute for Real ID at airports The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is reminding travelers that a Costco membership card does not meet the criteria for federally approved identification at airport checkpoints. While the card features a member's photo and a gold star, it does not satisfy Real ID requirements outlined under federal guidelines. The TSA issued the reminder following several misleading claims on social media and discussion forums suggesting that a Costco card could serve as an alternative to a government-issued ID. Some Reddit posts and online articles have pointed to the card's visual similarities to Real ID documents, leading to confusion among infrequent travelers. However, the agency has confirmed that only specific types of identification are valid for entry through security. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cara Membantu Orang Terkasih Menghadapi Limfoma Limfoma Pelajari Undo Also read: Why Costco is shutting its doors on Memorial Day even as it emerges a winner in the tariff era In a recent social media statement, the TSA said, 'Your Costco Gold Star Membership card might score you a 48-pack of toilet paper, rotisserie chicken, and a soda, but it won't get you through a TSA checkpoint.' The message, though humorous, reflects the agency's ongoing efforts to educate the public about updated travel ID requirements. Live Events TSA clarifies acceptable travel identification requirements As of the Real ID enforcement deadline, travelers must present an approved identification document to clear TSA checkpoints. Acceptable forms include a state-issued enhanced driver's license, a valid US passport, passport card, permanent resident card (green card), or ID from trusted traveler programs such as Global Entry or NEXUS. Although a Costco card contains a member's name and photograph, it is not a government-issued document and therefore cannot be used as a standalone form of identification. In rare cases where a traveler lacks proper ID, TSA officers may use supplemental documents, including a Costco card, to help verify identity, but the process involves additional screening and verification steps. Also read: Costco's brand-new carrot cake bar divides the internet over 1 ingredient Recent reports, including one from Chowhound, originally promoted the idea that a Costco card might aid travelers without ID. The site later updated its article to clarify that TSA does not officially accept the card for identification purposes. The agency continues to emphasize that all travelers should carry valid ID to ensure a smooth screening experience.


USA Today
04-03-2025
- Business
- USA Today
This Costco Membership comes with $20 to spend
Products are chosen independently by our editors. Purchases made through our links may earn us a commission. So much of our time is spent running from place to place looking for an opportunity to save just a little more. You might go to one store for their cheap cuts of meat, then stop by another because they've got affordable paper towels. On the way home, you stop by the pharmacy to grab your meds, and then you still have to cook dinner if there's time. It's a lot, and by the end of the day, your energy levels match your budget: low. It might be a little easier if you change where you shop. Instead of running all over town, switch things up by burning through your to-do list under one roof. Shopping at a Costco warehouse might just be the trick that helps you stretch your budget through the month. Costco Gold Star Membership This One-Year Costco Gold Star Membership comes with a $20 Digital Costco Shop Card. BUY NOW at Reviewed Shopping at Costco If you haven't been to Costco recently, it might be time to check one out, and there's probably one nearby. There are actually more than 500 Costco warehouses across the US. Once you're through the door, you can start searching the shelves for bulk goods, fresh produce, tasty baked treats, appliances, and even some quality clothes. Need a new TV? Stop by the electronics section. Running low on office supplies? See if you ever need to buy another pen after stopping by Costco. Once you're in the door, check if your Costco warehouse also has a pharmacy. Save yourself another trip and see if you can fill your script in the same place you buy bulk hoagie rolls. And, of course, there's the legendary $1.50 hotdog meal to grab on the way out. And that's actually just the start of the tasty treats available at the Costco Food Court. Pick up a hot slice of pizza, their yummy chicken bake, or a variety of sweet treats that you've totally earned after a long day. Price of a Costco Gold Star Membership: $65 The Gold Star Membership is your standard affair. It's what gets you in the door. It's also how you get access to Costco offerings online, along with a few other bonuses. Gold Star Members can also take advantage of exclusive Costco offers available on their website. Make sure to check them out because your next hotel, flight, or full vacation might be through Costco. This Costco Gold Star Membership is still $65, but it also comes with a little something extra. When you get your Costco Gold Star Membership, you'll also get a $20 Digital Costco Shop card to spend however you want in person or online. How to redeem your $20 Digital Costco Shop Card There are a few steps to getting your $20 Digital Costco Shop Card with your membership. Here's what to do: Make your purchase here (it's the same price as you'd pay through Costco). Provide a valid email address. Within two weeks, you'll get your $20 Digital Costco Shop Card in your inbox. Use your Shop Card in person or online. This offer is available to new members, but don't worry if you used to have a Costco Membership. If your membership has been expired for over 18 months, you can still get the Digital Costco Shop Card. Costco Gold Star Membership This One-Year Costco Gold Star Membership comes with a $20 Digital Costco Shop Card. BUY NOW at Reviewed