📄 The Union Contract vs. The Employee Agreement

Right now, every Costco employee works under a document called the Employee Agreement. It might look official, but here's the truth:

It’s not legally binding.

This agreement is written entirely by corporate, and they can change it at any time, without notifying you, without asking you, and without your approval.

That means your:

• Wages
  
  

• Scheduling rules
  
  

• Hours
  
  

• Health benefits
  
  

• Vacation and sick time
  
  

… can all be changed on a whim. You have no vote, no negotiation power, and no legal protection if the company decides to rewrite the rules.

✊ The Union Contract: Your Rights in Writing

A Union Contract is completely different — and far more powerful.

It’s:

• Legally binding under federal labor law
  
  

• Negotiated by trained professionals representing your interests
  
  

• Ratified by union members — you get a vote
  
  

• Enforceable in court or arbitration if violated
  
  

Once a Union Contract is in place:

• Costco cannot change the terms without Union approval
  
  

• Your pay, benefits, time-off policies, and job protections are locked in
  
  

• Any violations can be formally challenged and corrected
  
  

⚖️ The Difference in One Sentence

With the Employee Agreement, Costco makes the rules, but with a Union Contract, you help make the rules — and they can’t be changed behind your back.

✅ Why It Matters

Without a Union Contract

-Company-written, non-binding

-Policies can change overnight

-No appeal process for disputes

-No employee vote or input

With a Union Contract

-You vote to approve the contract

-Negotiated and legally enforceable

-Terms are locked in and protected

-Formal grievance process with union support

🔐 Lock in Your Rights

A Union Contract gives you stability, transparency, and real power. It’s not just a document — it’s a legal safeguard for your job, your livelihood, and your future.