Membership is central toCostco’s whole business model.

It’s the main reason why Costco can afford to sell you so many high-quality goods at below-market prices.

So, it should come as little surprise that the club is very serious about its members-only policies.

A hand holding a Costco Membership card on a cart in Costco

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Costco’s New Announcement About Membership Fees Is Good News for Customers

Just how serious?

Her offense: trying to use a membership card that belonged to someone else.

The post set off a lengthy discussion about the problems with card-sharing and possible consequences.

Many commenters shared their own tales of running afoul of the rules.

Another added, “Back when I first got my membership, my brother asked to borrow it.

Figured it couldn’t hurt so I let him.

This happened every single time I went until the 6 months was over.”

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It further states that “membership may be terminated at Costco’s discretion and without cause.”