ISSAQUAH, Wash.–Costco’s switch from American Express cards to Visa has not gone smoothly, with social media filled with complaints about the new accounts.
Costco members who have received their new cards have complained they cannot open new accounts or pay existing balances that were transferred to the new cards.
On Monday, the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi was rolled out following Costco’s move away from its long-standing partnership with American Express. According to Citi, more than 11 million cards have been sent to Costco members.
Media reports have indicated that calls to Costco received a statement from a spokesperson that "Due to the tremendous response, some customers experienced delays reaching customer service. However, call volumes are starting to return to normal. We sincerely apologize to those who have been inconvenienced and are absolutely committed to serving our existing and new cardmembers."
The new card has no annual fee as well as a better cash-back program. For example, it gives 4% back on the first $7,000 of gas that a customer purchases, and 1% on purchases after that, according to Costco. It also offers more rewards for restaurant and travel purchases.