Executive Employment Agreement between James D. Sinegal and Costco Wholesale Corporation August 22, 2011

Employment. The Company employs you as its Chief Executive Officer.

Employment Term. The terms of this letter agreement cover one year, beginning August 29, 2011, and coinciding with the Company’s fiscal year 2012, unless otherwise terminated as provided below. The parties may renew this letter agreement from year-to-year upon agreement.

Salary and Benefits.

You will receive a base salary of $350,000 for fiscal year 2012. The base salary will be paid to you in accordance with the Company’s standard payroll practices.

You will be eligible for a bonus of up to $200,000. The amount of any bonus will be determined by the Board of Directors or the Compensation Committee, and will be paid to you in accordance with the Company’s standard practices.

You will be eligible for an equity award under the Company’s Fifth Restated 2002 Stock Incentive Plan or its successor plan. The Board of Directors or the Compensation Committee will determine the amount of any grant.

You will be eligible to participate in the Company’s employee benefit programs, in accordance with the terms and conditions of those programs.

Termination. The Company will have the right to terminate your employment at any time for “cause,” as determined under applicable law and policies of the Company. You may terminate your employment at any time upon not less than sixty (60) days prior written notice.

Miscellaneous. This letter agreement represents our complete agreement on these subjects. We can only amend this letter agreement by signing a written amendment. This letter will be governed by Washington law in all respects.

/s/    Jim Sinegal        

Dated: 

8/22/2011