You know the benefits of using a Target RedCard because you shop there often. Every Target purchase comes with a 5% discount, which can really add up over time. What if you need to quickly stop at Walmart? Can you still use your RedCard to save money there?
The short answer is no. Unfortunately, the Target RedCard can only be used at Target stores and on Target.com. But that doesn’t make it any less of an amazing credit card for Target shoppers. Let’s take a closer look at where you can (and can’t) use your RedCard.
Where You Can Use Your Target RedCard
The Target RedCard comes in three versions – the RedCard credit card, the RedCard debit card, and the RedCard Mastercard. Here is where each version can be used
At Target
All Target RedCard versions can be used
- In any Target store nationwide – there are over 1,800 Target locations in the US.
- On Target.com for online orders.
- In the Target mobile app when you have your RedCard added to your account.
You’ll get your 5% discount on every Target purchase when you pay with your RedCard. This discount also applies to Starbucks locations inside Target stores.
Other Retailers
The Target RedCard debit card and Target RedCard credit card are “closed-loop” cards that can only be used at Target.
However, the Target RedCard Mastercard is considered an “open-loop” card, meaning you can use it anywhere Mastercard is accepted. This includes:
- Other stores like grocery stores, clothing stores, home improvement stores.
- Restaurants, gas stations, hotels, and other services.
- Online retailers and services that accept Mastercard online payments.
So with the RedCard Mastercard you can earn your 5% Target discount as well as use the card like any other Mastercard on non-Target purchases.
Target Plus Partners
A few other stores have teamed up with Target to let RedCard users use their cards in their stores. Right now, the only major partner is CVS Pharmacy. You can use your RedCard at CVS to get a 5% discount on purchases that qualify.
As part of the Target Plus program, some smaller stores may also take the RedCard. Check with your local stores.
Where You Can’t Use Your Target RedCard
The Target RedCard Mastercard can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted, but there are some places where it can’t be used:
Walmart
Unfortunately, Walmart does not accept the Target RedCard in any version. You won’t get any discounts by trying to use your RedCard at Walmart.
International Use
The Target RedCard is designed primarily for use within the United States. While the Mastercard version can technically be used internationally, you may encounter declined transactions or foreign transaction fees.
Non-Partner Retailers
Aside from CVS Pharmacy and a handful of smaller Target Plus partners, most major retailers do not accept the Target RedCard. This includes grocery stores like Kroger and Albertsons, as well as retail chains like Kohl’s and Bed Bath & Beyond.
Online Retailers
You can only use the RedCard on Target.com. Other online stores will not accept any version of the RedCard except the Mastercard version. And even then, you won’t earn any Target discounts when shopping online elsewhere.
RedCard Perks Beyond Target
Aside from Target purchases and the limited retailers that accept the RedCard directly, here are a few other perks you can take advantage of:
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Free ATM access – RedCard debit cardholders get free access to Allpoint ATMs located inside Target stores. This provides fee-free cash access while shopping at Target.
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Extended returns – Get 30 extra days to return items bought with your RedCard at Target. Enjoy 90 day return window instead of the usual 60 days.
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Special financing – The RedCard credit card offers special financing options on large Target purchases. This includes 6 month or 12 month financing offers.
So even though the Target RedCard is limited primarily to Target, you can maximize its value through Target exclusive perks.
The Bottom Line
The Target RedCard provides an invaluable 5% discount at Target, which likely makes up a large portion of your shopping. While it would be nice to get 5% off everywhere, the RedCard is designed specifically with Target shoppers in mind.
You won’t be able to use it at Walmart or many other non-Target retailers. But you shouldn’t let that stop you from enjoying all the RedCard’s great Target benefits. Just be sure to have a separate credit or debit card handy for when you shop elsewhere.
After all, getting 5% off all Target purchases can lead to huge savings for loyal Target shoppers. So use your RedCard proudly during your Target runs and don’t worry about missing out on Walmart or other stores. The Target discount is worth it!
CNBC Select compares the two Walmart Credit Cards and the Target RedCard, so fans of the retailers can decide if opening a card is worthwhile.Updated Fri, Nov 15 2024
The offer mentioned below for the Target RedCard is no longer available.
Store credit cards dont usually have a very good reputation. Often they charge really high APRs and the perks dont add up to provide good value for cardholders. But the exception might be cards from Target and Walmart, which give loyal customers up to 5% back in rewards on eligible purchases at the store.
Youd be hard pressed to find another credit card that offers such a high rewards rate, as big box stores are usually excluded from the list of eligible stores where you can earn high cash back when you do your grocery shopping. (Read more about CNBC Selects round-up of the best credit cards for groceries.)
Walmart offers two credit cards: the co-branded Capital One® Walmart Rewards™ Card and the private-label Walmart Rewards™ Card. Target offers customers the Target RedCard™.
Both retailers credit cards have no annual fee and offer a range of perks. But you still may wonder if these cards are worth all the hype?
Below, CNBC Select breaks down the basics of each card from rewards to fees to added perks.
The Walmart and Target credit cards offer competitive rewards programs. Heres a breakdown of what to expect.
- Capital One® Walmart Rewards™ Card: 5% back at Walmart.com, Walmart app, Walmart Grocery Pickup and Delivery; 2% back at Walmart stores, Walmart and Murphy USA fuel stations, restaurants and travel; 1% back everywhere else.
- Walmart Rewards™ Card: 5% back at Walmart.com, Walmart app, Walmart Grocery Pickup and Delivery; and 2% back at Walmart stores, Walmart and Murphy USA fuel stations.
- Target RedCard: 5% discount at checkout on most purchases in-store and at Target.com. Read our Target RedCard review for exclusions.
Winner: Target RedCard — you instantly receive a 5% discount at checkout, which applies both in-store and online. The Walmart cards earn a lower 2% back in-store.
Rewards you earn with either Walmart card can be redeemed at any time and for any amount. Redemption options include travel, gift cards, statement credit and the ability to cash in points during online checkout at Walmart.com.
There are no redemption options for the Target RedCard since you instantly receive a 5% discount at checkout.
Winner: Tie. It depends on how you prefer to redeem rewards. If you dont want to deal with the hassle of cashing in your points, the Target RedCard is the best choice. But if you want to use rewards for travel or gift cards, the Walmart cards provide more options.
Best Store Cards | Walmart Credit Card Vs Target Credit Card
FAQ
Can I use my Target RedCard at Walmart?
Where can you use the cards. The Walmart Rewards™ Card and Target RedCard can only be used at Walmart and Target properties, respectively.
What stores can I use my Target RedCard?
You can use your Target Circle reloadable card anywhere that accepts Visa. The Target Circle program store debit card and store credit card can be used only at Target stores or on Target. com.
Can the Target RedCard be used anywhere?
But it can only be used for in-store and online Target purchases. And while the Target RedCard Mastercard can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted, you don’t have any control over whether you’ll get an offer to upgrade.
Where is Target RedCard accepted?
Yes, the Target RedCard is a credit card. The Target REDcard credit card can only be used for purchases at Target retail locations and on Target. com. In addition to the Target Credit Card, Target offers a RedCard debit card that is linked to a customer’s personal checking account.