Sam’s Club employees receive discounts structured as substantial employee benefits rather than a traditional percentage off most merchandise. The company, a subsidiary of Walmart Inc., provides associates with several financial and lifestyle advantages. The primary benefit is a complimentary membership, which removes the annual fee barrier for shopping at the warehouse. This benefit, combined with a separate discount card for use at Walmart stores, forms the core of the associate savings program. Employees also access a comprehensive package of benefits covering health, financial security, and education.
The Primary Employee Benefit: Free Sam’s Club Membership
The most direct form of savings is the free Sam’s Club membership, automatically extended to all employees. This benefit allows associates to access members-only pricing on bulk items, electronics, and groceries. The membership provided is often the Plus tier, which has a higher monetary value than the standard Club membership and unlocks additional perks.
The Plus membership offers several features that enhance the shopping experience. These include free shipping on most eligible online items and access to the Tire and Battery Center services. A significant benefit is the Sam’s Cash reward program, which allows members to earn a percentage back on eligible purchases made in the club.
Sam’s Club associates also receive a specific merchandise discount exclusive to the club. Employees are granted a 10% reduction on the price of fresh fruits and vegetables purchased within the warehouse. This targeted savings on perishable goods supplements the value derived from the free Plus membership.
Understanding the Walmart Associate Discount Card
Sam’s Club employees are eligible for the Walmart Associate Discount Card, a separate savings tool distinct from the free club membership. This percentage-based discount card is not applicable to purchases made within the Sam’s Club warehouse. It is specifically designed for use at Walmart stores and on the Walmart website.
The card provides an ongoing 10% discount on regularly priced general merchandise and fresh produce when shopping at a Walmart location. This includes items ranging from clothing and housewares to electronics and toys. The discount also extends to special promotional offers and can be used for savings on gasoline at Walmart-owned Murphy USA gas stations.
The key is recognizing the non-interchangeable nature of the two benefits. The free Sam’s Club membership grants access to wholesale pricing and a small produce discount within the club. Conversely, the 10% Walmart Associate Discount Card provides a percentage-based discount on general merchandise, but only when shopping at Walmart and its affiliated properties.
Comprehensive Overview of Other Employee Benefits
Beyond the retail-specific perks, Sam’s Club associates are offered a comprehensive benefits package promoting financial and personal well-being. The company provides access to a 401(k) retirement plan that includes matching contributions, helping employees build long-term savings. Associates can contribute a portion of their pay, and the company will match a percentage of those contributions after the employee meets an annual threshold of hours worked.
Health and wellness benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage. Full-time associates can access these benefits shortly after their hire date, and part-time associates may also qualify based on their average weekly hours. The company funds life insurance coverage for full-time employees and offers optional short-term and long-term disability protection.
The Live Better U education program provides associates with fully funded access to higher education. This program covers 100% of the cost of tuition and books for eligible employees seeking a college degree, high school diploma, or professional certificate. Additionally, associates receive paid time off (PTO) and Protected Paid Time Off (PPTO), which accrues based on employment status and tenure.
Eligibility and Enrollment Requirements
Access to associate benefits is determined by an employee’s classification, specifically full-time or part-time status. Full-time hourly associates typically become eligible for health coverage on the first day of the month following their 89th day of employment. Part-time associates can also qualify for medical benefits if they consistently meet a minimum average of hours worked per week.
The complimentary Sam’s Club membership is available to all associates immediately upon hiring, regardless of status. Enrollment for this perk is usually completed at the club’s Member Services desk using the employee’s Associate Identification Number. Enrollment in the 401(k) plan is also available immediately upon hire, though company matching contributions begin after the associate has been credited with at least 1,000 hours of service during the first year.
Enrollment for health, financial, and educational benefits is managed through the company’s internal benefits portal. Associates are provided a specific timeframe after becoming eligible to select and enroll in their desired coverage. The Walmart Associate Discount Card is issued after completing an application process that confirms the employee’s active status.