8 Useful Things Costco Members Never Have to Pay For

Costco is well-known for its wholesale savings, which help members save money on groceries and other items. But members also get benefits that go beyond the low prices on the shelves. And many of them are free.

Here are eight free perks that you'll want to take advantage of to unlock the true value of your membership, whether you're shopping in a store or online.

Customers will be reimbursed for shipping and handling fees for in-person warehouse returns on eligible items. Customers with eligible online returns will not need to pay for return shipping charges either. 

Just remember some items must be returned within 90 days for a full refund and some exceptions apply.

When you buy certain high-priced products at Costco — including large electronics and water heaters — you’re automatically enrolled in a two-year extended warranty through Costco Concierge.

Depending on the device, two years is sometimes even longer than the manufacturer’s warranty.

As a Costco member, you don’t necessarily need to go through a product manufacturer’s customer service line to get technical support.

You can call Costco Concierge for free tech support on TVs, computers, cameras (including security cameras), and other major electronic devices.

You can get the same level of support for major household appliances such as freezers, refrigerators, washers, and dryers.

Costco’s tech support includes step-by-step guidance through setting up a new device, troubleshooting help, and instructions on general product use.

Costco sells high-quality hearing aids from top brands such as Philips and offers free hearing tests through its website and at most warehouse locations.

If you order hearing aids through Costco, you’ll also receive free, remote follow-up consultations where a professional can help you adjust your hearing aids via an internet-enabled device.

After you buy tires at Costco, you won't have to worry about visiting another tire shop for the rest of your driving life, which could really help you cut car costs.

Costco tires have lifetime warranties, although some limits may apply. The tires can be installed at a Costco tire center, which also performs free flat tire fixes, rotation, balancing, and air-pressure checks.

Costco also fills tires with nitrogen, not compressed air. The retailer says that helps maintain the proper tire pressure longer.

Unlike most smaller grocery stores, Costco offers samples every day of the week. That way you don’t have to shop over the weekend to try the newest tasty treat to hit Costco’s shelves.

Costco’s samples are apparently unlimited, so you can hit the same sample table over and over again. 

Of course, if you like the sample enough to try it that many times, we recommend buying it instead of hanging around the sample table all day.

You rarely have to pay as much for Costco gas as you would at most other gas stations in the area. And as Costco members already know, saving money doesn’t mean sacrificing quality.

One great free perk of filling up at Costco is that the retailer’s Kirkland Signature gas is designated as Top Tier. 

For a gasoline brand to receive the 'Top Tier' stamp of approval, then it must exceed a list of performance standard benchmarks such as minimal deposits on intake valves.  

Costco members get free two-day delivery when they spend $75 or more on non-perishable items and household essentials.

If you’re dissatisfied with your purchase, check Costco's return policy regarding eligibility as well as how long it could take to be reimbursed.  

Costco’s deals don’t start or end with the products you toss in your grocery cart. If you’re already a member, make sure you’re taking advantage of these eight extra perks that take your membership savings to the next level.

You can also add to your savings by using one of these best cash back credit cards that will reward you for your purchases.