Target REDcard Review

John S Kiernan, Managing EditorMar 11, 2022

WALLETHUB’S RATING: 5 / 5

John S Kiernan, Managing EditorMar 11, 2022

WalletHub’s Rating

5 out of 5 rating 5 / 5

Bottom Line: If you’re a fan of Target, you’ve hit the bullseye with the RedCard. The Target Credit Card has a $0 annual fee and great rewards.

Opinions and ratings are our own. This review is not provided, commissioned or endorsed by any issuer.

Pros

No membership fees
Qualify with fair credit

Cons

High regular APR

Target Credit Card Review Summary

The Target Credit Card is a good card for people with fair credit or better who want to save 5% at Target. The Target Card is easily worthwhile because it has a $0 annual fee, gives 5% back on purchases, and provides perks such as free shipping from Target.com and an extra 30 days to return any Target purchase.

Below, we’ll tell you a bit more about where the Target Credit Card hits the mark and where it ultimately falls short, particularly as it relates to financing.

Target Credit Card

3.73 out of 5 rating1,009 Reviews

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Regular APR

27.15% (V)

Annual Fee

Rewards Rate

5% discount

Min Credit Needed

Fair

Rewards Details

Save 5% when you use your Redcard in-store or online at Target, at any in-store Starbucks location, specialty gift cards, shipt and drive up service.
Free 2-day shipping on hundreds of thousands of items at Target.com. Some market exclusions apply.
Extended returns for 30 extra days at Target or Target.com.
Exclusive extras, including special items and offers.

Additional Info

Access your Target Credit Card - check your credit card account balance, make a payment, and review past statements.
More Details & Reviews About Target Credit Card

Target Credit card Review Highlights

5% discount Off Most Target Purchases

Pretty much every purchase you make at Target and Target.com will be automatically discounted 5% if you pay with your REDcard. That’s an amazing benefit, considering everything you can buy at Target — from groceries to electronics. What’s more, this 5% discount can be combined with store coupons, including those from the Target-owned digital-coupon service, Cartwheel, and the 5% discount available via Target Subscriptions, a service that delivers everyday essentials according to a schedule of your choosing. But there are exceptions to this rule (see “The Lowlights” section below).

30-Day Extension For Returns

The REDcard is your ticket to a wider return window, extending the standard timeframe during which you may exchange a given item by 30 days. With that being said, it’s important to note that this perk isn’t set in stone. Target reserves the right to discontinue this feature at any time, and the terms and conditions note that “purchases with a fixed return date” and “non-refundable items” are excluded.

Free Shipping From Target.com

Any Target.com purchase paid for with your Target Credit Card, regardless of the amount, is eligible for free standard shipping to any U.S. state as well as the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and certain military installations. You’ll obviously have to pay for expedited options, but as long as you’re not in a hurry, this account feature will definitely come in handy.

Requires Only Fair/Limited Credit For Approval

As previously mentioned, you don’t need much credit experience to qualify for the Target Credit Card. That’s great in the sense that it can serve as a cost-effective credit-building vehicle for people who might otherwise be stuck overpaying for less attractive terms. If you’re curious about where your credit stands, you can get your credit score for free on WalletHub.

Target Credit Card Review Lowlights

Above-Average Regular APR

The Target Credit Card sports a 27.15% (V) APR, which isn’t the highest on the market but certainly isn’t low, either. For context, the average interest rate for store credit cards is 26.97%, and the average for "fair credit" credit cards is 23.87%. With that in mind, it’s best to always pay your bill in full when using this card.

No 0% Introductory Rates

The Target Credit Card won’t give you a break if you need extra time to pay off your purchases. It doesn’t offer any sort of reduced introductory interest rates on new purchases, and it doesn’t even allow balance transfers. Instead, the card’s above-average APR will apply from the jump if you don’t pay your bill in full.With that being said, you won’t be missing much if you have limited credit, as none of the other cards for which you would be likely to qualify offer 0% rates, either. But if you have above-average credit and wish to finance a big-ticket Target purchase, this offer obviously leaves a lot to be desired.

5% Savings Exclude Prescriptions & Gift Cards

The fact that you won’t earn rewards when purchasing Target gift cards and Target prepaid cards makes sense. Otherwise, the REDcard rewards program would be all too easy to scam. But the presence of prescriptions and clinic services on the list of exclusions is a bit of a head-scratcher. And if they represent a significant portion of your Target spending, this particular shortcoming could ultimately be a deal-breaker.

Other Things To Consider About Target RedCard

Chip-and-PIN Security

The credit-card industry as a whole is currently engaged in a transformation from the magnetic-stripe security standard to protections based on embedded computer chips. But most credit cards have adopted a system known as chip-and-signature that is widely considered to be a half measure. It provides little benefit to consumers relative to magnetic-stripe credit cards, considering that all credit-card users benefit from $0 liability guarantees.

And it won’t work at automated payment terminals abroad, such as you might find in a European train station or parking garage.Only chip-and-PIN cards, like the Target Credit Card, provide such a benefit. Target was an early adopter of chip-and-PIN plastic following its infamous 2013 data breach. And though cardholders won’t benefit from chip-and-PIN’s global interoperability, its superior security should help keep your personal information safer.

Target Credit Card vs. the Competition

		Sponsored		Sponsored
Annual Fee	$0	$0	$0	$39
Bonus Offer	N/A	N/A	$50 gift card	N/A
Rewards Rate	5% discount	1 - 5% Cash Back	1 - 5 points / $1	1.5 - 5% Cash Back
Purchase Intro APR	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Transfer Intro APR	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Regular APR	27.15% (V)	17.99% or 28.99% (Variable)	18.74% - 26.74% (V)	29.74% (V)
Editors' Rating	5	4.5	4.5	4.7
Details, Rates & Fees	Learn More	Learn More	Learn More	Learn More

Target Credit Card FAQ(15 questions)

How do I make a payment on my Target RED Card?

Upvotes

Maria Adams, Credit Cards Moderator

The easiest way to make a payment on your Target Credit Card is either online or over the phone at (888) 755-5856. Alternatively, you can make a payment in a Target store, or by mail.

How to make a payment on your Target Credit Card:

Online: Log in to your Target account on the website and click “Pay Now.”
Over the phone. Call (888) 755-5856 and follow the prompts to make a payment, or ask to speak with a Target guest services representative.
In a Target store. You can pay your credit card in person at any Target store, too. Visit the Guest Service Counter, and have your billing statement or Target Credit Card ready, so the attendant can look up your account number.
By mail. If you prefer to pay your Target Credit Card by mail, send a check and your payment coupon to:
Target Card Services
P.O. Box 660170
Dallas, TX 75266-0170

Keep in mind that payments via mail take the longest time to post. So, in order to avoid being late, always send your payments at least 5-7 days before your due date.

How do I apply for the Target Credit Card?

Upvotes

WalletHub

You can apply for the Target Credit Card either online or in a Target store, at the customer service counter. You will need to have identification on you; Social Security Number, driver's license, state ID or military ID.

Keep in mind that you need at least fair credit to get this card. If you don't know where you stand, you can check your credit score for free on WalletHub. The issuer will also take into account your overall credit history, income and debts.

If you qualify, you may be instantly approved. Otherwise, if further verification is needed, you should receive a decision in the mail within 7-10 business days. If you're approved, your card will be mailed in another 7-10 business days.

Where can I check my Target Credit Card balance?

Upvotes

WalletHub

You can check your Target Credit Card balance online. Just make sure to enroll in online banking first. Alternatively, you can also check your balance over the phone at (888) 755-5856.

It is worth noting that easiest way to manage your account is by enrolling in online banking. In addition to checking your balance, you can also add cardholders, set card alerts, enroll in paperless credit card statements, and make or schedule your Target Credit Card payments.

How can I check my Target Credit Card application status?

Upvotes

Maria Adams, Credit Cards Moderator

You can check your Target Credit Card application status by calling (800) 424-6888. You'll need to hang on the line until they ask for your account number multiple times. You will then be able to press “0” to get to a live customer service representative. At the moment, you cannot check your application status online.

Note that it may take up to 10 days to get a decision on your application. Once approved, you'll get your Target Credit Card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

How can I get a Target Red Card credit limit increase?

Upvotes

WalletHub

You may get a Target Credit Card credit limit increase if the issuer decides to review your account and they grant you an increase automatically. At the moment, you cannot request a Target Credit Card credit limit increase directly, as the issuer does not offer this option to Target Credit Card members.

To be eligible for a credit limit increase, your account must be in good standing for at least 12 months and your income information must be up to date. To update your income information, call (800) 424-6888 and follow the prompts to get connected to a customer service representative.

Here's how to increase your chances of receiving a Target Credit Card credit limit increase:

Make on time payments and pay down your balance in full, if possible.
Keep your credit utilization ratio below 30%, as a higher ratio might hurt your credit.
Use your credit card regularly.

Keep in mind that even if your account is in good standing and your income information is up to date, getting a Target Credit Card credit limit increase is not guaranteed. But in case the issuer does increase your credit limit, this inquiry will result in soft pull and won't affect your credit score as a result.

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How do I cancel my Target Red Card?

Upvotes

Bogdan Roberts, Credit Cards Moderator

To cancel your Target Credit Card, call (800) 659-2396. Next, enter your account information and navigate through the menu until you are directed to a customer service representative. They'll then be able to cancel your Target Credit Card. At the moment, there is no way to cancel your account online.

Keep in mind that cancelling a credit card may hurt your credit score. So, take a look at how to navigate the process with as little damage as possible to your score.

Does Target have a major credit card?

Upvote

Chip Lupo, Credit Card Writer

Yes, Target does have a major credit card: the Target Mastercard. The Target Mastercard credit card can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted, though it is only available to existing customers who receive an offer to upgrade from the Target store credit card, also known as the RedCard. The store card can only be used at Target stores and online through the Target website.

The Target Mastercard and the Target store card share many similar features, though. Both cards offer a 5% discount discount in-store and on the Target website. Both also provide free shipping on Target.com purchases and an additional 30 days for returns and exchanges. Plus, neither card charges an annual fee.

Bear in mind that the Target Mastercard does not offer rewards on any purchases outside of Target and Target.com. So, the Target Mastercard won%t provide you with much extra value compared to the store card, other than the convenience of using the card for non-Target transactions.

What's the Target Credit Card APR?

Upvotes

Evelyn Boros, Credit Cards Moderator

The Target Credit Card APR is 27.15% (V). Interest charges apply to balances you carry from one month to another. There is no 0% APR offer for this card right now, but you can avoid interest by paying the bill in full every month.

The Target Credit Card's interest rate is high compared the average APR among new credit card offers right now. If you have at least good credit, you can find far better deals and maybe even qualify for some of the best credit card rates.

Things to know about the Target Credit Card APR:

Keep in mind that the Target Credit Card gives you a 25-day grace period to avoid paying interest on your purchases. The grace period runs from the end of the billing period until the card's payment due date. You won't owe any interest as long as you pay your balance in full during that timeframe.

Should you decide to carry a balance on your Target Credit Card, it will accumulate interest daily at the card's regular APR. Interest is compounded, meaning you will owe interest on both the principal balance and any interest already accumulated.

How can I activate my Target REDcard?

Upvotes

WalletHub

You can activate your Target Credit Card online or by calling (800) 424-6888.

Here's how to activate your Target Credit Card online:

Visit the Target website.
Log in to your Target Credit Card account if you already have one.
If you're a new cardholder, enroll in Target Credit Card online banking. You will need your card number and personal information to sign up.
Activate your card from your online account.

To activate your Target Credit Card by phone, call (800) 424-6888 or the number on the back your card. You will need to enter your card number, your first and last name, the last four digits of your SSN, your ZIP code and the three-digit security code from the back of your card.

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How can I get pre-approved for the Target Credit Card?

Upvotes

Bogdan Roberts, Credit Cards Moderator

You cannot get pre-approved for the Target Credit Card.

It's not hard to get approved for this store card, since it requires fair credit or better. But make sure you qualify for it. An application will result in a hard pull on your credit report, lowering your credit score for a short period of time. If you don't know where you stand, you can check your score for free, right here on WalletHub.

You can also take a look at a list of the major issuers that offer pre-approval for their credit cards.

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