Costco Faces Class Action Lawsuit Over Unexpected Membership Renewals
A Costco customer has launched a federal class action in California, alleging the retailer mishandled membership renewal notices. The complaint centers on the timing and content of emails that alert members to upcoming automatic renewals.
Allegations and timeline
Plaintiff Russel George says Costco sent an email about his membership renewal 60 days before charging his card. He contends that notice fell outside California’s 45-day window under the Automatic Renewal Law.
George says he was surprised when Costco automatically renewed his Gold Star membership in January 2026. His payment card was charged $65, he alleges, at a time when he was reconsidering whether to keep the membership.
Details the complaint cites
The suit claims the renewal emails lacked required details. The notices allegedly omitted the renewal length and terms, the exact charge amount, and clear cancellation instructions.
Those omissions, the complaint argues, deprived members of statutorily mandated information. The plaintiff maintains timely and complete notices would have allowed cancellations.
Legal claims and relief sought
George asserts violations of California’s Automatic Renewal Law. He also brings claims under the False Advertising Law, the Consumers Legal Remedies Act, and the Unfair Competition Law.
The complaint seeks a jury trial, declaratory and injunctive relief, and damages for George and other class members.
Case information and representation
The lawsuit is filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The case caption is George II v. Costco Wholesale Corp., Case No. 3:26-cv-02369.
Plaintiff Russel George is represented by Matthew Smith of Migliaccio & Rathod LLP.
Context and related matters
This action follows a recent separate class complaint against Costco over allegedly contaminated rotisserie chickens. The new filing adds scrutiny to the company’s membership practices.
Filmogaz.com will monitor developments as the case proceeds through court.
- If you received a Costco membership renewal notice, consider seeking legal advice.
- Consumers concerned about automatic renewals should review cancellation options and bank statements.
