Should You Still Carry the Amex Costco Card in 2025? (New Card To Look At)

If you’ve heard of the Amex TrueEarnings® Card from Costco and American Express, you’re probably wondering whether it’s still a good deal—or even available at all. The short answer? No, this card is no longer available. But there’s an alternative that still makes sense for many Costco members.

What Was the Amex TrueEarnings Costco Card?

This card was once the go-to option for Costco shoppers. Co-branded between American Express and Costco, it offered:

• 3% back on gas
• 2% back at restaurants and on travel
• 1% back on Costco purchases
• No annual fee (with a Costco membership)

However, in 2016, Costco ended its exclusive partnership with American Express.

The Switch to the Costco Anywhere Visa® by Citi

In June 2016, Costco partnered with Visa and Citibank, and all Amex TrueEarnings accounts were transitioned to the new Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi. This change brought not only a new network but also upgraded rewards:

Can You Still Use Amex at Costco?

No. American Express is no longer accepted at Costco stores. They may still be used at Costco.com, but in-store purchases require a Visa.

Should You Get the Citi Costco Anywhere Visa?

If you shop at Costco regularly and want a card that’s simple, effective, and directly integrated into your membership, yes—this card is a smart choice.

Perks include:

• 4% back on gas (up to $7,000 annually, then 1%)
• 3% back on dining and travel
• 2% back at Costco and Costco.com
• 1% back on all other purchases

However, rewards are issued once a year as a coupon redeemable in-store—not monthly credits or direct deposits.

Other Options to Consider

If you’re looking for more flexibility in how you earn or redeem, here are some strong alternatives:

• Blue Cash Preferred® from American Express: 6% back on groceries, 3% on gas
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card: 3x points on dining, travel, gas, and streaming
• Chase Freedom Unlimited®: 1.5% flat cashback on all purchases

These cards don’t tie you to Costco, and some offer statement credits or travel redemptions.

FAQs

Can I still apply for the Amex TrueEarnings card? No, it’s been discontinued since 2016.

What’s the best card for Costco now? The Citi Costco Anywhere Visa is the only card accepted in-store with extra benefits tailored to Costco shopping.

Can I use an Amex at Costco.com? Yes, Costco.com still accepts American Express online.

Bottom Line

The Amex TrueEarnings® Card is history, but the Citi Costco Anywhere Visa® is a solid replacement—especially if you buy gas, dine out frequently, and do your bulk shopping at Costco. If you want even more rewards or monthly flexibility, pair it with a second cashback or travel rewards card.