Sam’s Club to Hike Membership Fees by $10 Beginning in May

Sam’s Club, the global membership-only warehouse club owned by Walmart, will hike its annual membership costs from $50 to $60 effective May 1.

Its Plus membership will also see a $10 annual increase, from $110 to $120. As part of this upgrade, Plus members will be able to earn up to $750 a year in “Sam’s Cash” rewards on eligible purchases. Currently, the limit is $500 per year. Other Plus perks include a 2 percent Sam’s Cash on eligible purchases, free shipping for online orders, early shopping hours, and pharmacy discounts.

“We have adjusted our membership pricing to support the things our members love,” a Walmart spokesperson told The Epoch Times in an email statement.

“We will continue to provide innovative, tech‑driven tools and a curated assortment of the best national brands and Member’s Mark items—while also giving members greater flexibility to shop how they want with expanded in-club hours.”

In addition, Sam’s Club will offer curbside pickup and enhanced delivery options.

Similar to other discount clubs like BJ’s and Costco, Sam’s Club offers bulk groceries, household items, clothing, electronics, furniture, and tires. Many of its items include Members Mark private-label products.

BJ’s offers annual memberships at $20 a year, or $70 annually for BJ’s Club Plus membership. The Plus membership offers 2 percent in rewards, gas discounts, free same-day delivery, and free curbside pickup.

Costco offers two membership levels: $65 a year for its Gold Star Membership and $130 a year for the Executive Membership. Executive perks include 2 percent annual rewards, two membership cards, exclusive shopping hours, and other incentives.

Reactions on the social media platform Reddit were mixed.

“I decided I’m cancelling. This is just a stab in the back. Don’t they realize we’re struggling to pay for basic groceries?” a consumer asked.

“I have not seen significant savings on most items I’ve purchased—maybe 5 percent less than Walmart at best, but $60 a year is too much for the slim savings,” another customer complained. “Even the gas is no cheaper than the Walmart two miles down the road. Guess I won’t be renewing come fall.”

“Well, compared to Costco service, I have nothing but good things to say about Sam’s. I like the selection they provide, which is usually very similar to Costco. The food court is great. Gas is great,” the post stated.

“This is such a nominal increase. I don’t see a reason to complain,” another posted.

In January, Sam’s Club announced it had reached a 100 percent “Made Without” milestone for all Member’s Mark food and beverage products by removing more than 40 unwanted ingredients and certified synthetic colors.

Walmart founder Sam Walton opened the first Sam’s Club in Midwest City, Oklahoma, in 1983. As of 2026, the mega-discount retailer offers nearly 600 locations across the United States, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and China.

Sam’s Club just over 20 years after the first Walmart opened in 1962 in Rogers, Arkansas. Today, Walmart operates more than 10,800 stores and clubs in 19 countries.