NEW YORK — Attention consumers: The entrance price is increasing for Costco members.

Starting September 1, customers can expect an increase of $5 to $10 depending on their membership plan. The change applies to both ongoing memberships and renewals.

It is the first time in seven years that the wholesale chain has increased its membership fees.

According to Costco, the price change will “help offset operating costs so we can keep our prices low.”

Despite rising inflation in recent years, membership fees have remained stable.

The fee increase came after the company announced it would crack down on card sharing by requiring customers to scan their membership cards when entering stores.

“In the coming months, member scanners will be deployed at the front door of your local warehouse,” Costco said in an online statement. “Once deployed, all members will be required to scan their physical or digital membership card by holding the barcode or QR code to the scanner before entering.”

Despite the membership fee increase, Costco says its memberships will continue to include a free card for a designated person in the same household who is at least 16 years old.

For more information on how you can continue saving, watch the video above.