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Does Target Accept PayPal In Store? Your Comprehensive Guide

Yes, Target does accept PayPal in its stores. You can use your PayPal account to pay for your purchases at any Target location. Let’s dive into the specifics of how this works and explore everything you need to know about using PayPal at Target.

Paying with PayPal at Target: The Details

While Target gladly welcomes PayPal, the process may not be exactly as you expect. Forget waving your phone for a simple NFC tap. Instead, Target leverages PayPal Key to facilitate in-store transactions. Think of PayPal Key as a virtual Mastercard that is tied to your PayPal account.

Here’s how it breaks down:

Setting Up PayPal Key: Before you even head to Target, you’ll need to set up your PayPal Key. This is a one-time setup process within your PayPal account online. Go to your PayPal account on the computer or the PayPal app and look for the PayPal Key option.
Using PayPal Key at Checkout: When you’re at the Target checkout, simply inform the cashier that you’d like to pay with a credit card. Then, provide the PayPal Key virtual card number, expiration date, and CVV code just as you would with any other credit card.
Funding Your Purchase: The transaction will then be processed through your PayPal account, drawing funds from your preferred funding source (bank account, credit card linked to your PayPal, or PayPal balance).

Why PayPal Key and Not Direct PayPal?

Good question! Target’s point-of-sale (POS) systems aren’t directly integrated with PayPal’s standard in-store payment methods like QR codes or NFC-based transactions. PayPal Key acts as a bridge, allowing Target’s existing infrastructure to process PayPal payments as if they were standard credit card transactions. It’s a clever workaround that expands payment options for customers without requiring a massive overhaul of Target’s systems.

Benefits of Using PayPal at Target

Why bother with PayPal Key at Target? Here’s a quick rundown of the advantages:

Security: PayPal provides an extra layer of security by shielding your actual bank or credit card details from the retailer.
Flexibility: Choose your preferred funding source within PayPal, whether it’s your bank account, debit card, credit card, or PayPal balance.
Convenience: If you already use PayPal regularly for online purchases, using PayPal Key at Target offers a consistent and familiar payment experience.
Rewards: You can still earn rewards and points on your linked credit card while paying with PayPal. Just ensure that your preferred funding source in PayPal is the credit card you want to earn rewards with.

Potential Drawbacks

As with anything, there are a few potential downsides:

Setup Required: You must set up PayPal Key before you get to the checkout line. If you haven’t done this already, you’ll be fumbling with your phone instead of making a swift purchase.
Remembering the Details: You’ll need to remember your PayPal Key card number, expiration date, and CVV code. While you can retrieve this information from the PayPal app, it adds an extra step.
No Direct Integration: It’s not the slickest, most seamless payment experience. Direct PayPal integration (like scanning a QR code) would be faster and more intuitive.

Maximizing Your PayPal Experience at Target

To ensure a smooth transaction, keep these tips in mind:

Set Up PayPal Key in Advance: This is the most crucial step. Do it now!
Know Your Funding Source: Double-check your preferred funding source in PayPal before you shop.
Have PayPal App Handy: If you forget your PayPal Key details, you can quickly access them in the PayPal app.
Inform the Cashier Clearly: Tell the cashier you want to pay with a “credit card,” and then provide your PayPal Key information.

Other Payment Options at Target

While PayPal is a valid option, Target accepts a variety of payment methods:

Cash
Credit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover
Debit Cards
Target RedCard: Target’s own store credit card or debit card, which offers a 5% discount on most purchases.
Gift Cards: Target gift cards and e-gift cards.
Mobile Payments: Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay (linked to a credit or debit card).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the most common questions about using PayPal at Target, answered for your convenience:

1. Can I use the Target RedCard and PayPal together?

Unfortunately, no. You cannot combine payment methods when using PayPal Key. You’ll need to choose one payment method for the entire transaction. Therefore, if you want to use your Target RedCard to get the 5% discount, use it as a standalone payment.

2. Does Target accept PayPal QR codes in-store?

No, Target does not currently accept PayPal QR code payments directly at the register. You’ll need to use PayPal Key as the payment method to use PayPal in-store.

3. What if my PayPal payment fails at Target?

If your PayPal payment fails, first double-check that you have sufficient funds in your linked account or PayPal balance. Also, ensure that your PayPal Key details (card number, expiration date, CVV) are correct. If the problem persists, contact PayPal’s customer support for assistance. You may need to use an alternative payment method in the meantime.

4. Can I use my PayPal balance to pay at Target?

Yes! When setting up your PayPal Key or managing your PayPal account, you can choose your PayPal balance as your preferred funding source. If your balance covers the purchase amount, it will be deducted from there.

5. Is using PayPal at Target secure?

Yes, using PayPal Key at Target is generally considered secure. PayPal employs robust security measures to protect your financial information, and using PayPal Key shields your actual credit card or bank account details from Target.

6. Can I use PayPal Credit at Target?

Yes, you can use PayPal Credit at Target if it’s linked as your funding source within your PayPal account. When you use your PayPal Key, the transaction can be charged to your PayPal Credit account.

7. Can I get cash back when using PayPal at Target?

No, you typically cannot get cash back when using PayPal Key at Target. This functionality depends on the retailer and the payment method. Because PayPal Key is processed as a credit card transaction, Target’s standard cash-back policies for credit cards apply (which generally don’t include cash back).

8. How do I return an item purchased at Target using PayPal?

Returns for items purchased using PayPal at Target are handled the same way as returns for credit card purchases. Bring the item, your receipt (if you have it), and your photo ID to the customer service desk. The refund will be credited back to your PayPal account via your PayPal Key.

9. Can I use PayPal to buy Target gift cards online?

Yes, you can absolutely use PayPal to purchase Target gift cards online at Target.com. This is a straightforward process; simply select PayPal as your payment method during online checkout.

10. Does Target offer any discounts for using PayPal?

Target doesn’t typically offer specific discounts solely for using PayPal. However, they may occasionally have promotions that apply to all payment methods, including PayPal. It’s always a good idea to check Target’s website or app for current deals and offers.

11. What happens if my PayPal Key is compromised?

If you suspect your PayPal Key has been compromised, immediately log into your PayPal account and deactivate or delete the PayPal Key. Then, contact PayPal’s customer support to report the issue.

12. Can I use PayPal at Target self-checkout?

Yes, you can use PayPal Key at Target self-checkout lanes. Simply select the “credit card” option on the payment screen and enter your PayPal Key details (card number, expiration date, and CVV).