How Much Is a Sam’s Club Membership?

Buying in bulk from a warehouse club could potentially help you save money and time. Sam’s Club is a membership-based wholesale retailer, similar to Costco and BJ’s, that enable shoppers to buy in bulk. It also gives customers access to discounted prices on groceries, clothing and household items.

While shopping at wholesale clubs isn’t right for everyone, it can be a great choice if you live in a big household or want to save on products that you use often.

How much is a Sam’s Club membership?

The Sam’s Club membership program consists of two tiers, with different prices for each. Keep in mind that some states collect taxes on Sam’s Club membership fees.

• Club Membership: $50 per year.

• Plus Membership: $110 per year.

What is the difference between Sam’s Club memberships?

The Club membership is the cheaper option and grants you access to Sam’s Club prices. The Plus membership is more expensive and offers additional benefits, such as free shipping and early shopping hours.

Both memberships provide one card for the primary account holder and a complimentary card for a second household member.

All memberships are also eligible for the loyalty rewards currency known as Sam’s Cash, but Plus members are given more opportunities to earn rewards. Club members are occasionally eligible to earn rewards points on their purchases.

Here are the perks of a Sam’s Club membership:

Club Membership

• Add up to eight additional members at a reduced rate of $45 each.

• Avoid the checkout line by scanning items and paying using the Sam’s Club app.

• Access members-only prices.

• If you’re unsatisfied, cancel anytime and receive a refund of the amount paid toward your current year membership.

Plus Membership

• Add up to 16 Club-level members at a reduced rate of $45 each.

• Get free shipping on eligible online items for primary and household/complimentary card holders.

• Access additional optical and pharmacy discounts.

• Get 2% in Sam’s Cash back on qualifying purchases, which can be used on purchases in-store, online or in the app. You can also cash out your Cash in the club.

• If you’re unsatisfied, cancel anytime and receive a refund of the amount paid toward your current year membership.

» Explore an alternative: Costco membership costs

Is a Sam’s Club membership worth it?

If you have the space and need to shop for items in bulk — and live relatively close to a location — then a Sam’s Club membership may be worth it. Thanks to the discounts and promotions offered, you may be able to snag a membership for less than full price.

Upgrading to a Plus membership may be worth it if you want to save on medication and optical needs, or take advantage of free shipping and curbside pickup. These perks could be beneficial for business owners or those with large families.

However, a Sam’s Club membership may not be worth the cost if you don’t plan to shop there consistently, or if bulk shopping doesn’t fit in your living arrangement.

If you’re unsure whether a membership makes sense for you, consider revisiting your budget to see how a membership and the potential long-term savings fit in.