Here's how to obtain Costco's Gold Star Membership for only $20 a year.

Currently, you can purchase a Costco membership at a lower price than ever, despite the possibility of price increases.

The Gold Star Membership at the warehouse store chain is usually priced at $65. However, for a limited time, customers can buy a 12-month membership through affiliate marketer StackSocial and receive a $45 Costco gift card, bringing their annual rate down to $20 for their first year.

The same offer is also available for Costco's premium Executive Membership, which costs $130 per year and gives members 2% cash back on all Costco purchases. With a $45 gift card, you can get an Executive Membership for an effective annual rate of $85 for your first year.

Recently, Costco raised its membership fees for Gold Star and Executive memberships to $60 and $120, respectively.

To receive a $45 digital gift card from Costco, you must purchase your membership through StackSocial and create an account. The gift card will be emailed to you within two weeks.

The offer is accessible here and must be redeemed before January 31, 2022, which is the last day to take advantage of the deal, which is available until December 22.

Eligibility for the offer is limited to new members or those whose Costco membership expired more than 18 months ago, so if you already have a membership, you won't qualify.

Costco Gold Star or Executive Membership?

If you're thinking about joining Costco, which membership should you choose?

Access to Costco warehouses, the chain's website, and its affordable gas stations is included with Costco's basic Gold Star Membership.

The Executive Membership offers the same benefits as the Gold Star membership, plus 2% cash back on all purchases and extra savings on Costco services such as bottled water delivery and pet insurance.

Purchasing home or auto insurance through Costco grants Executive members exclusive perks, including roadside and lockout assistance.

The membership page of Costco has a calculator that allows you to input your monthly spending at the store to determine the cash back you can expect to receive at the end of the year, helping you decide if the higher rate is worth it for you.

If you're unsure about getting the more expensive option, Costco guarantees to reimburse the difference in cost between a Gold Star and an Executive membership in your first year if you're not satisfied.

To receive a refund for your purchase, visit your local Costco membership desk and have the reimbursement processed.

Earn more money at work by taking CNBC's online course on negotiating a higher salary. Expert instructors will teach you the necessary skills to increase your paycheck, including how to prepare, build confidence, communicate effectively, and craft a counteroffer. Start now and use the coupon code EARLYBIRD for a 50% discount through November 26, 2024.

Sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to receive expert advice on work, money, and life.