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.

Those who join Costco under a current promotion will have to shell out the typical $65 membership cost upfront, but will receive a $45 gift card approximately two weeks later — bringing the out-of-pocket membership expense to just $20. (Staten Island Advance/Jason Paderon) Jason Paderon

Don't miss this deal to buy your own Costco membership and get a $45 gift card, effectively cutting the price to just $20 for the year.

A basic Gold Star Costco membership costs $65 a year. If you want cash back on your Costco purchases, you can upgrade to an Executive membership at a cost of $130 a year. But no matter which membership you have,