Costco Anywhere Visa: Worth It for More than Just Gas?
The Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi shines with impressive cash back on gas and travel but comes with a steep APR. Is it right for you?
The Quick Version
If you're a Costco member, the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi can seriously amplify your savings with 4% cash back on gas, 3% on dining and travel, and a respectable 2% on Costco purchases. But the high APR, ranging from 21.24% to 29.99%, might be a dealbreaker if you don't pay off your balance each month.
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Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
What's Inside
This card is a powerhouse for cash back, offering 4% on gas (up to $7,000 annually), 3% on restaurants and travel, 2% at Costco, and 1% on everything else. There's no annual fee, but you do need an active Costco membership. It also comes with no foreign transaction fees and includes perks like purchase protection and travel insurance. The APR is a variable 21.24% to 29.99%.
What's Actually Good
The card's cash back rewards are robust, especially if you're a frequent traveler or dine out often. Getting 4% back on gas is a standout feature for anyone with a long commute or a love for road trips. Plus, the added benefits like no foreign transaction fees and purchase protection make it a strong contender for international travelers.
- ✅ 4% cash back on gas is top-tier, especially for commuters.
- ✅ No foreign transaction fees make it travel-friendly.
- ✅ Purchase protection adds peace of mind for big buys.
The Catch
The card's high APR is a major caveat—you'll want to be sure you can pay off your balance each month. There's also no sign-up bonus, which can be a letdown compared to competitors. And if you're not already a Costco member, the card isn't available to you. Plus, the 4% cash back on gas is capped at $7,000 per year, which might not stretch as far as you'd like.
- ❌ High variable APR can be costly if you carry a balance.
- ❌ No sign-up bonus is a missed opportunity for extra rewards.
- ❌ Exclusive to Costco members limits accessibility.
Who It's For
If you're a Costco member who spends a lot on gas, dining, and travel, this card could be a goldmine for rewards. It's best suited for those who pay off their credit card balance monthly to avoid the high APR. Not for those who are looking for an immediate bonus or don't frequent Costco.
The Bottom Line
The Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi is a strong option for maximizing cash back if you're a Costco member and can sidestep its high APR. If you're still shopping around, the Hilton Honors Amex: A Traveller's Ally or Just Another Card? might be worth a look too.
