If you're about host a big holiday gathering or have a few more people to shop for on your gift list, you're probably realizing how expensive the holidays are. One of the best ways to stretch your budget during this time is by getting food, beverages and even home essentials in bulk. Big-box stores and warehouses like Costco are your best option, but they require a membership, which can also add up. Fortunately, right now you can essentially pay just $20 for a membership when you take advantage of this deal. An annual Gold Star membership to Costco runs $65, but when you sign up through StackSocial, you'll score a gift card worth $45 with your purchase. But if you're interested act soon -- you only have until Sunday before this deal expires. 

With this deal, you can get a one-year Costco Gold Star membership for just $65, and you'll get $45 back in the form of a Costco gift card. That credit is ideal given how much money we tend to spend at this time of year and means you're essentially paying just $20 for the one-year membership. Alternatively, you can go for the Executive Gold Star membership instead for $130, and you'll also get a $45 Costco gift card. You can also gift a membership to a family member or friend who wants to join Costco, too (limited to two memberships; one for you, one for a gift).

To take advantage of these savings, you'll have to sign up before Dec. 22, and you'll have to redeem your membership before Jan. 31, 2025. Keep in mind that it's available only to new customers or those whose memberships have been expired for more than 18 months. If you've been thinking of picking up a Costco membership, this deal puts more cash back in your pocket. 

With a Costco Gold Star subscription, you'll get one membership card for your household. It allows you to shop at any Costco warehouse worldwide, as well as online at Costco.com. Costco is a great place to save on groceries and other everyday essentials. We did the math and shopping at Costco can save you as much as $1,000 over a year compared to shopping at the grocery store. A Gold Star membership also means you can use Costco's gas stations and pharmacies, as well as Costco's optical and hearing aid centers. Costco frequently has seasonal plants, decor, furniture, electronics and other products as well.

Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money.

The Executive Gold Star membership adds a 2% annual reward of up to $1,250 and additional benefits and discounts on select Costco services. If you're going to shop at Costco frequently or make use of its extra services, it might make sense to go for the premium membership.

After you sign up, you'll receive your bonus shop card via email within two weeks. The card can be used both in-store and online, so you can use it right away. Just remember that after you pay through StackSocial, you'll have until Jan. 31, 2025, to redeem the membership at Costco or you may not be able to take advantage of the deal. StackSocial recommends that you redeem it sooner if you decide to go for this deal.

Now that groceries are going to cost you a little less, check out our gift guide on the best toys for kids, because it's always nice to treat them. And if you're looking for even more ways to cut down on monthly expenses, you can also check out our roundup of the best streaming service deals available now.

Read more: How to Get the Most Out of Your Costco Membership

Why this deal matters

We love this StackSocial deal because of the free $45 Costco gift card, which basically nets you a year of club membership for $20. And it's not just about the holidays. You'll find sales on gifts now, and discounts on bulk groceries and essentials all year long. Plus you'll have access to Costco's cheaper gas, too.

Will this item arrive in time for Christmas?

This is a digital deal, so you'll receive it almost immediately after making your purchase. That means you don't need to worry about shipping deadlines for USPS, FedEx, UPS, Amazon and others if you're buying this as a holiday gift. Instead, you'll be able to print out the access code and slip it into a card or stocking anytime or have it emailed directly to the recipient. If you want to see other last-minute gift ideas, check out our roundup of more great digital deals for the holidays. Just remember, this offer expires on Sunday.