Costco Pet Insurance: Member-Exclusive Savings
For many pet parents, unexpected veterinary bills—from sudden injuries to serious illnesses—can be a stressful financial surprise. One option available to Costco members is pet insurance through Costco’s partnership with insurance providers. Although Costco itself doesn’t underwrite insurance, it provides access to discounted policies and member-focused benefits, which many pet owners find valuable.
What Is Costco Pet Insurance?
Costco Pet Insurance isn’t a standalone product sold directly by Costco. Instead, Costco partners with established pet insurance companies—most notably Figo Pet Insurance in the U.S.—to offer members discounted coverage plans designed to help with the cost of veterinary care for dogs and cats.
Through this partnership:
• Policies are underwritten and administered by third-party insurers.
• Costco members can obtain exclusive benefits not available to the general public.
Typical insurance plans provide coverage for accidents and illnesses, and many policyholders can customize their plan with factors like reimbursement level, annual limits, and deductibles.
Why Consider Pet Insurance?
Pet health care isn’t cheap. Emergency care, surgeries, and treatment for chronic conditions quickly add up. Insurance helps cover eligible vet bills so that owners can make treatment decisions based on care needs rather than immediate cost. Plans generally cover events like:
• Accidental injuries (e.g., fractures or wounds)
• Illnesses requiring diagnostics and treatment
• Surgeries or specialist visits
• Hospitalization after serious events
• Some plans also allow wellness coverage additions or reimbursement options based on plan structure
Discounts and Costco Member Benefits
One of the primary reasons pet owners consider Costco’s pet insurance offering is member-exclusive savings and perks:
1. Member Discount on Premiums
Costco members typically receive a discount on pet insurance premiums compared to standard rates. In the U.S., member discounts can be up to about 15% off the base rate offered through the partner provider (such as Figo).
2. Executive Member Perks
Costco Executive members often qualify for enhanced benefits:
• Enrollment fee waivers (e.g., the usual pet insurance sign-up fee may be waived).
• In some cases, promotional benefits like year-ly shop card credits have been offered in other regions (e.g., Australia, via partner Petsy).
3. Multi-Pet Discounts
Many plans allow additional savings when insuring more than one pet , which can help families with multiple animals lower their overall cost.
4. Related Savings
Costco members can sometimes benefit from related cost savings on pet medications or prescriptions through Costco Pharmacy services, which may reduce the cost of care further (though this isn’t part of the insurance policy itself).
How to Get Costco Pet Insurance
Step 1: Check Your Membership Status
To access Costco Pet Insurance benefits, you must hold a Costco membership (Gold Star, Business, or Executive).
Step 2: Visit the Pet Insurance Page
On Costco’s website, members can navigate to the pet insurance section, where they’ll be prompted to request a quote from the partnered insurer (such as Figo).
Step 3: Compare Plans
Once directed to the insurer’s site:
• Choose the type of coverage (accident only or accident + illness).
• Select limits, deductibles, and reimbursement options based on your budget and pet’s needs.
• Review any eligibility requirements (age limits, waiting periods).
Step 4: Enroll and Manage Your Policy
After selecting a plan, complete the enrollment process with the insurer. Ongoing policy management—like filing claims, adjusting coverage, or renewing—is done directly with the insurance company.
Important Things to Know Before You Enroll
Coverage Varies by Policy
Not all pet insurance plans offer the same protections. Some may exclude routine care, hereditary conditions, or pre-existing conditions. Carefully review what’s included and excluded.
Waiting Periods Apply
Most policies have waiting periods for illness or specific conditions before you can begin filing claims.
Pricing Depends on Many Factors
Premiums depend on your pet’s age, breed, location, and plan features. Discounts may help offset costs but don’t eliminate premiums altogether.
Who Might Benefit Most from Costco Pet Insurance?
Costco Pet Insurance tends to appeal to pet owners who:
• Prefer predictable budgeting for unexpected health events
• Want flexibility in selecting veterinarians
• Appreciate member savings and added perks
• Are prepared to research and compare insurance options
Insurance is one tool among many (including savings and preventive care) pet owners can use to support long-term pet health.
Conclusion
Costco Pet Insurance offers a practical way for Costco members to explore discounted pet health coverage through established insurance partners. With flexible plan options, member savings, and support for accidents and illnesses, it’s worth exploring if you’re considering ways to help manage veterinary costs for your dog or cat. As with any insurance, comparing plans, reading policy details, and understanding your pet’s needs will help you find the most suitable coverage for your situation.