Did you know that Costco has your back even after you've made a purchase? If you spot that big-screen TV or kitchen appliance you just bought for less money within 30 days, you're not stuck paying the higher price. This insider tip can help you get money back when prices drop. But the process has specific requirements you'll want to know about.

Whether you're shopping online or in-store, understanding how to request a price adjustment can put extra cash back in your pocket. Before you buy, it's worth checking Groupon's latest Costco discount codes for additional savings. Here's everything you need to know about maximizing your savings with Costco's price adjustment policy.

Smart shoppers know that timing isn't everything when it comes to getting the best deal. With the right approach, you can ensure you're getting the lowest price even if you didn't catch the sale initially. Let's dive into how this membership comparison benefit works and how to use it effectively.

What Is Costco's Price Adjustment Policy?

Costco's price adjustment policy gives you a 30-day window to get money back if an item you purchased drops in price. This applies to both online orders from Costco.com and in-store purchases at warehouse locations. It's important to note that this isn't the same as price matching with other retailers – Costco doesn't match competitors' prices.

The policy covers situations where Costco itself reduces the price on an item you recently bought. Whether you paid full price or caught an item on sale, you may be eligible for an adjustment if the price drops further within your 30-day window. This means even sale items can qualify for additional savings if Costco marks them down more.

Your membership makes this process smoother since Costco tracks your purchase history automatically. You don't need to worry about losing receipts or forgetting purchase dates. The system keeps track of when and where you bought each item.

How to Request a Price Adjustment

Online orders (Costco.com)

What you’ll need: your order number and the current lower price.

How to do it:

1. Go to Costco’s Customer Service page and open the Price Adjustment form.
2. Sign in, select the order, and enter the details of the lower price.
3. Submit and you’re done—no store visit needed.

What to expect: If approved, credits typically post within 5–10 business days to your original payment method. Online adjustments apply only to Costco.com purchases.

Smart tip: Keep your confirmation email handy—having the order number speeds things up.

In-store purchases (Warehouse)

What you’ll need: your membership card (your receipt is usually on file).

How to do it:

1. Visit the Returns/Member Services counter at the warehouse where you bought the item.
2. Ask for a price adjustment—staff can pull up your purchase and verify today’s price.
3. If eligible, they’ll process it on the spot.

What to expect: You’ll typically receive the difference as cash, a card credit, or store credit, depending on your original payment and timing.

Smart tip: Go during off-peak hours (weekday mornings) for the quickest turnaround.

What's Eligible (and What's Not) for Price Adjustments

Most items you purchase at Costco are eligible for price adjustments, but there are some important exceptions to keep in mind. Sale items can receive further adjustments if Costco reduces the price even more within your 30-day window. Great news for savvy shoppers.

However, Gold Bullion purchases are specifically excluded from price adjustments. This makes sense given the volatile nature of precious metals pricing. Additionally, Costco reserves the right to deny any price adjustment request at their discretion, though this is typically rare for straightforward cases.

The key factor is timing – you have exactly 30 days from your purchase date to request an adjustment. After that window closes, you're out of luck even if the price drops significantly. This is why it's smart to keep an eye on prices for big-ticket items you've recently purchased.

Turn Costco's 30-Day Price Window into Extra Cash Back

Make Costco’s price adjustment policy work harder for you with a few simple habits.

Your quick playbook

• Set two reminders: one on purchase day and another on day 25 of your 30-day window.
• Target big droppers: check prices weekly on electronics and appliances—these categories fluctuate most.
• Save proof: screenshot the product page and price on purchase day and note the item number (and your order/receipt).
• Watch sale moments: recheck during Member-Only Savings, end-of-season clearances, Black Friday/Cyber Monday, and holiday promos.
• Act fast: as soon as you spot a lower price, submit the online form (for Costco.com orders) or visit the warehouse returns counter (for in-store buys).

How your 2% works after a price adjustment

• Executive rewards are based on the final price. If an item drops in price and you get an adjustment, you'll only earn 2% on the reduced amount (or Costco may reduced the previously accrued 2% to match the lower price). To learn more about this, check out our Executive vs. Gold Star membership guide.
• Quick example: Paid $799, adjusted to $699 — you get $100 back, and your 2% is calculated on $699.

1. Price Adjustment - Costco.com Orders — Costco