Shop Costco in Texas? Beware of the Receipt of Shame, It’s Real

(KPEL-FM)Texans love things that are bigger than other things. Maybe that's why there are some 42 locations of Costco Warehouse stores scattered about the state. Those who shop there love the selection, the volume, and the prices. What these Texas Costco shoppers don't love is the phenomenon known as "The Receipt of Shame".

Shame is never a good thing. It's great for building character and learning lessons as a child or if you plan on being a fan of the Dallas Cowboys. It just comes with the territory. But Costco is not where we want to go for our public shaming. In fact, I would hazard a guess that most Texans would rather get in and get out of their hometown Costco with as little confusion as possible.

Why Is It Called "Receipt of Shame" at Costco?

"The Receipt of Shame" is something that more than a few Costco shoppers have experienced. Most who know what the "RoS" is all about probably found out unintentionally. However, there are some knuckleheads, like me, and "Jake" (@_jake.mp4) on TikTok Tok had to learn about this very real store policy the hard way. 

Why Does Costco Check Receipts At the Door?

If you've frequented Costco, Sam's, or any other warehouse club you know before you leave the building a slightly conscious employee must stare at your receipt and your buggy and magically deduce that you paid for all the crap that's in your cart.

But what if you've lost that receipt? Or, decided Costco policy doesn't apply to you and you throw it away before you reach "Checkpoint Charlie"? Well, here's what happens to you.

You get sent to Costco Customer Service where they will recreate your receipt. And yes, that can take a painfully long time, especially for someone who only wanted to "pop in for a few items".

In his post on TikTok "Jake" suggested the wait was "8 years". It's not. He also referenced the "8.5x11 fully grown receipt" that customer service gives you to go through post-shopping inspection again. Jake likened the huge piece of paper to a "white surrender flag".

If you already know about the Receipt of Shame, make sure you tell your friends and family. If you've just learned about the "RoS" then you're welcome, it will save you time when you visit Costco the next time. Just remember what Judge Wapner taught us as kids, "always keep your receipts".