How to Save with the Target Circle™ Card

Whether you’re an avid Target shopper or someone who only stops in every once in a while, you can’t deny that Target has almost anything you may need. You can buy groceries, kid’s supplies, clothes, video games, home decor, gift cards for other retailers, books and more.

And if you want to save more at Target, you can even apply for one of their Target Circle Cards. But how do you know which Target card to get? Keep reading to understand how the various Target Circle Cards differ.

The Scoop on Target Credit Cards

Target has a variety of card choices for consumers. If you’re not looking for a traditional credit card, there is a Target Circle Debit Card, which is a Target-specific retail debit card. When you spend money at Target with this card, the amount due will come directly out of your associated checking account. You can also open a Target Circle Reloadable account, which is like a reloadable prepaid card that can be used at Target.

However, if you want a traditional credit card, you have a couple of options.

There are two types of Target Circle Credit Cards:

The Target Circle Credit Card	This card can only be used at Target, Target.com or the Target app.
The Target Mastercard	This is the only Target card that can be used at both Target and non-Target retailers.

No matter what type of Target Circle card you have, you can save 5% on every eligible purchase at Target stores, at Target.com or through the Target mobile app. This discount even applies to the Target Circle Debit Card and the Target Circle Reloadable card.

But if you have a Target Mastercard, you can maximize your rewards by using the card at other merchants. You’ll get 2% back on gas and dining and 1% on all other purchases. You can use the card wherever Mastercard is accepted.

Another huge benefit is that you can get an extra 30 days to return items if you have a Target Circle card. You also qualify for free two-day and free standard shipping on most items. You may still have to pay an extra fee for expedited shipping. And you may have to spend a minimum to qualify for free two-day shipping.

There are no annual or monthly fees with any Target Circle card. If you don’t carry a balance and make your payments on time, this card won’t cost you anything. 

As of September 2024, there is also a special $50 off coupon you’ll receive if you are approved for the credit, debit or reloadable Target Circle card. There are some limitations on what you can use the $50 offer for, but it still applies to most Target products. You have 30 days to use the coupon, which is fairly generous compared to many other retailers. 

Before You Apply for the Target Circle Card…Some Potential Drawbacks to Consider

High APR	Just like any other store or retail credit card, both Target credit cards have a high APR.
Limited Usage	If you get the Target credit card, debit or reloadable account, you’ll only be able to use the card and ear rewards at Target. Only the Mastercard can be used and earn rewards outside of Target.

When can I start using the card?

Once you apply for the card, you should receive the Target Circle Card within seven to 10 days. Once you receive the card and activate it, it will be ready for immediate use. 

Alternatives to the Target Circle Card

U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Card. This cash-back card lets you choose two retailers where you can earn 6% cash back. Options include popular stores, like Walmart, Amazon.com and even Target. It also provides 1.5% cash back on all other purchases. 

However, you can only earn 6% cash back on up to $1,500 in eligible purchases. The Target Circle Card has no limit on how much you can earn in rewards. Also, there is a $95 fee (waived for the first year) for this card, while the Target Circle Card has no annual fee.

Prime Visa Card. The Prime Visa credit card from Amazon.com lets you earn between 5% and 15% back on other items, with a fixed 5% back at Amazon.com (as long as you have Amazon Prime). Like the Target Circle Card, this card has no annual fee (an Amazon Prime membership is $139 a year.)

You’ll even receive 0% APR on certain purchases, which can be useful if you need help financing a large purchase. The cash-back rewards you receive can be used toward future Amazon.com purchases. New cardholders also receive a $100 Amazon gift card after being approved. Amazon says they can provide a decision within 15 seconds of you submitting your application. 

More Target Circle Card Tips

How Hard is it to Get a Target Credit Card?

Target does not share its minimum credit score or income requirements to qualify for a Target Credit Card. Some outside sources say the typical credit score needed is between 640 and 690. However, the exact number can vary.

The good news is that you can still get most of the same benefits, even if you aren’t approved for the credit card. You can open a Target Circle Debit Card and still get a 5% discount. You’ll get most of the same benefits and perks – just remember that every transaction will be automatically deducted from your bank account. 

Where can I use my Target credit card?

Where you can use the card really depends on the type of card you have. If you have the Target Mastercard, you have much more freedom in where the card is accepted. 

However, customers with the regular Target Credit Card can only use the card at Target. If you’re a frequent Target customer and you have other general shopping or cash-back cards, then the basic Target Circle Credit Card should be fine.

Can you pay your Target credit card bill in-store or online?

You can pay your Target credit card online at target.com/mycirclecard. If you’re already at a physical Target store, you can also pay your bill in person.

The post How to Save with the Target Circle™ Card appeared first on The Real Deal by RetailMeNot.

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