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Sam’s Club is one of several popular warehouse club retailers. Members who shop there get access to exclusive deals that can help them keep more money in their checking accounts. To shop at Sam’s Club, you must pay for a yearly membership.
Currently, membership fees cost $50 or $110 annually. Find out how often the retailer adjusts its membership fees and why you may want to consider joining to save money on groceries, toiletries, and other household essentials.
Membership fees last increased in 2022
If you want to join Sam’s Club, you’ll pay $50 or $110 annually. Unfortunately, warehouse club membership fees don’t remain the same forever. Over time, these fees tend to increase, similarly to how the prices of goods and services rise over time.
Sam’s Club last increased membership fees in October 2022. Club memberships increased by $5 from $45 to $50 yearly, while Plus memberships, which provide 2% cash back on in-club purchases, rose $10 from $100 to $110.
Before the most recent increase, the retailer last hiked its annual membership fees in June 2013. This means the company has only increased fees twice in 11 years, so membership fee hikes aren’t too frequent at Sam’s Club.
New members can get a deal when joining Sam’s Club
Are you thinking of becoming a Sam’s Club member? The company runs new membership promotions often. If you’re considering becoming a member, check for new membership deals before you join.
For example, a current promotion, available through Oct. 31, 2024, offers new members up to 50% off on their first membership year. You can get a new Club membership for $25 or a Plus membership for $70. After your first year, your membership will renew at the regular rate.
The retailer now offers first-time membership deals for seniors, teachers, students, veterans, and more. Look for deals like this to make your first year of membership more affordable.
Is a Sam’s Club membership worthwhile?
Many shoppers find a Sam’s Club membership worth the cost. The exclusive discounts can help them keep more money in the bank. But a Sam’s Club membership isn’t the right fit for every shopper. You should consider your shopping habits and needs before joining.
You can browse the Sam’s Club website and mobile app to see what products are sold there. While Sam’s Club sells name-brand essentials, it also offers products from its own private label, Member’s Mark. If the everyday goods you usually buy are available, it may be worthwhile to consider joining.
It’s also a good idea to confirm that there’s a club near your home or work. You’ll likely get more value from your membership and want to shop there more often if you have a club in your local community. However, a membership may not be ideal if you must drive a long distance to shop.
Earn rewards when you shop
Only you can decide if a membership is a good fit, but shopping at Sam’s Club could help you stretch your paycheck further. In addition to saving money by taking advantage of the members-exclusive discounts, you can earn rewards.
Many members pay for their Sam’s Club hauls with rewards credit cards. With the right credit card in your wallet, you can earn cash back rewards whenever you shop. Check out our best cash back credit cards to learn about our favorite picks.
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