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6 Top Budget Items To Buy at Costco With Your Social Security Check
Written by
Rebecca Neubauer
Edited by
Travis Woods

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For many retirees, managing a budget on a fixed income can be a challenge. One way to stretch your Social Security check is by shopping at Costco, a membership warehouse club that offers bulk goods at low prices. Here are six top Costco items to help your check go further.Â
Kirkland Pantry Staples
Costco’s Kirkland brand is well-loved for its store brand versions of your favorite name-brand groceries. Items like rice, pasta, canned goods and coffee are available in bulk at lower prices than traditional grocery stores. Buying in bulk will save you money and help reduce the number of shopping trips you have to take, saving money on fuel and saving time as well. Bulk buying for items that have a long shelf life will allow you to plan meals and save money without worrying about spoilage.
Fresh Produce
While buying in bulk is a hallmark of Costco, their fresh produce section is also worth exploring. Fruits and vegetables can be purchased at a fraction of the cost of other retailers. Consider splitting larger packages with a friend or family member if you’re concerned about eating everything before it goes bad. Fresh produce is essential for maintaining a healthy diet, and Costco’s prices can make it more affordable to include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your meals.
Paper Products
Every household needs essentials like toilet paper, paper towels, and cleaning supplies. Toilet paper in particular is an excellent deal at Costco. You’ll need some space to store the bulk-sized packages, but since these items don’t expire, buying in bulk is a smart way to spend your Social Security check and make sure you never run out of the essentials.
Medications
Costco also offers a variety of vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter medications. However, you may be able to save even more on your prescription medications by getting them at the Costco pharmacy. Many common generics are available at extremely low costs, which will help you stretch your Social Security check further if you take multiple medications.Â
Seasonal Items and Gifts
Costco is known for its seasonal items, which can be great for planning ahead for holidays or special occasions. The warehouse store also offers significant sales and discounts on items that are typically quite costly, like electronics, televisions, and home furniture. If you need a quick gift, Costco has a wide variety of gift cards available at 20% off from their face value. The low prices at Costco can help you stretch your fixed income further during the holidays to get decorations and gifts for your loved ones.
Clothing
Costco’s Kirkland brand has a variety of men’s and women’s clothing at a fraction of name-brand prices. Whether you’re looking for basics like shirts and pants, outerwear like jackets and warm coats, or undergarments like underwear and socks, Kirkland has quality options for affordable prices. You can even find season-appropriate footwear like sandals and slippers without draining your Social Security check.
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