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How Much Cash Back Does Target Give? Your Ultimate Guide

Target offers cash back, but not in the traditional sense you might expect from a credit card. Target itself doesn’t directly give “cash back” at the register in the way a grocery store or gas station might. Instead, the primary way to earn rewards at Target is through its Target Circle program and the Target Circle Card (formerly known as the Target REDcard). Understanding how these programs work is key to maximizing your savings and getting the most value out of your Target shopping.

Understanding Target’s Reward System

Target’s reward system revolves around two main pillars:

Target Circle: This is a free loyalty program that offers personalized deals, a 1% rewards earning rate on most purchases, and other perks.
Target Circle Card (Credit & Debit): This card provides a 5% discount on almost all Target purchases, both in-store and online.

While neither of these programs offers direct “cash back” in the strictest definition, they provide significant savings that function similarly. Let’s delve deeper into each program:

Target Circle: Personalized Deals and 1% Rewards

Target Circle is free to join and offers several benefits:

Personalized Deals: Target uses your purchase history to offer personalized deals and coupons on products you frequently buy. These deals can range from percentages off specific items to category-wide discounts.
1% Rewards: As a Target Circle member, you earn 1% rewards on most purchases. This is tracked in your Target account and can be redeemed on future Target purchases. While it’s not technically “cash back,” it effectively lowers your overall spending at Target.
Birthday Perks: Target often provides special birthday offers to Circle members.
Community Support: You can direct Target to donate to a local non-profit organization of your choice.

The key here is actively engaging with the Target Circle app or website to clip digital coupons and take advantage of personalized deals. This can significantly increase your savings beyond the base 1% reward.

Target Circle Card: The 5% Discount Powerhouse

The Target Circle Card, available as both a credit card and a debit card, is where the real savings potential lies. Here’s what you need to know:

5% Discount: The primary benefit is a 5% discount on almost all Target purchases, both in-store and online. This is applied at the point of sale.
Redcard Exclusives: Cardholders often receive exclusive offers and promotions not available to other Target shoppers.
Free Shipping: Enjoy free shipping on most items when you shop online at Target.com.
Extended Returns: Cardholders get an extra 30 days for returns.
No Annual Fee: Both the credit and debit versions of the Target Circle Card have no annual fee.

Important Note: The 5% discount is not “cash back” in the traditional sense. It’s a direct discount applied to your purchase at the time of transaction. However, the net effect is the same: you’re spending less money at Target.

Which Card is Right for You?

Target Circle Credit Card: This card requires a credit check and is subject to approval. If you’re responsible with credit and pay your bills on time, this card can be a great way to save money at Target. However, be mindful of the interest rate and avoid carrying a balance.
Target Circle Debit Card: This card is linked directly to your checking account. It doesn’t require a credit check, making it a good option for those who prefer to avoid credit cards or have a limited credit history. You’ll still receive the same 5% discount.

Beyond Target Programs: Third-Party Options

While Target’s own programs are the most direct way to save, you can also leverage third-party options:

Cash Back Credit Cards: Use a general cash back credit card at Target to earn rewards on your purchases. For example, a card that offers 2% cash back on all purchases will provide additional savings on top of any Target Circle benefits.
Shopping Portals: Some online shopping portals offer cash back or rewards for shopping at Target.com. Check websites like Rakuten or TopCashback to see if Target is offering any promotions.
Gift Card Resellers: Purchase discounted Target gift cards from online resellers. While the discount may be small, it can add up over time.

Maximizing Your Target Savings

To truly maximize your savings at Target, consider combining the following strategies:

Join Target Circle: It’s free and gives you access to personalized deals and 1% rewards.
Get a Target Circle Card: The 5% discount is a significant savings, especially if you shop at Target frequently.
Stack Deals: Look for opportunities to stack Target Circle deals with Target Circle Card discounts and manufacturer coupons.
Use a Cash Back Credit Card: If you have a cash back credit card, use it to pay for your Target purchases to earn additional rewards.
Shop Sales and Clearance: Target regularly offers sales and clearance items. Take advantage of these opportunities to save even more.
Use Target’s Price Match Policy: Target offers price matching on select items. Be sure to check for lower prices at competitor stores before you buy.

Target FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to further clarify how to save money at Target:

1. Does the Target Circle Card 5% discount apply to everything?

No, there are some exclusions. The 5% discount generally doesn’t apply to gift cards, prescriptions, certain restaurant purchases within Target stores, and some other limited items. Always check the fine print to be sure.

2. Can I use manufacturer coupons with the Target Circle Card?

Yes! You can stack manufacturer coupons with the Target Circle Card discount and Target Circle offers for even greater savings. This is a powerful way to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

3. How do I redeem my Target Circle rewards?

You can redeem your Target Circle rewards in the Target app, on the Target website, or at the checkout in a Target store. Simply apply the rewards to your purchase before completing the transaction.

4. Is the Target Circle Card a good deal?

For frequent Target shoppers, the Target Circle Card is almost certainly a good deal. The 5% discount can add up to significant savings over time, especially if you combine it with other Target offers and promotions.

5. Can I use the Target Circle Card at other stores?

No, the Target Circle Card can only be used at Target stores and on Target.com. It is a store-branded card.

6. What happens if I return an item I purchased with the Target Circle Card?

You will receive a refund for the amount you paid, including the 5% discount. The discount is essentially reversed when you return the item.

7. How does the Target Circle 1% reward work with the Target Circle Card?

While you earn 1% on most purchases with Target Circle, the Target Circle card supersedes that and you receive the 5% discount instead. You don’t get both.

8. What is the interest rate on the Target Circle Credit Card?

The interest rate on the Target Circle Credit Card varies depending on your creditworthiness. Be sure to check the terms and conditions before applying for the card. Aim to pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.

9. How do I manage my Target Circle account?

You can manage your Target Circle account through the Target app or on the Target website. Here, you can track your rewards, clip coupons, and update your account information.

10. Can I use a Target gift card with the Target Circle Card?

Yes, you can use a Target gift card to pay for your purchase and still receive the 5% discount when you use your Target Circle Card. This can be a great way to further reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

11. What if I lose my Target Circle Card?

Contact Target immediately to report the lost or stolen card. They will issue you a new card and protect your account from unauthorized use.

12. Are there any spending limits on the Target Circle Card?

There may be spending limits associated with your Target Circle Card, especially the debit card version, which is linked to your bank account. Check with Target or your bank for specific details.

By understanding Target’s reward system and leveraging available strategies, you can effectively “cash back” your Target shopping experience. Happy saving!