Some professions qualify for credits when they sign up with Costco. If you're not one of them, find out how occasional new member promotions can lower your fee.

The warehouse store chain's Gold Star Membership normally retails for $65. For the next few weeks, shoppers can purchase a 12-month membership through affiliate marketer StackSocial and receive a $45 Costco gift card, effectively reducing their annual rate to $20 for their first year.

It's well-known that Costco is a fantastic place to get savings on groceries and home essentials. It's also well-established that its snack offerings are superb and its groceries are high-quality. Plus,