Does Target Have Price Matching? The Savvy Shopper’s Guide

Yes, Target does offer price matching, but with specific stipulations and limitations. It’s not a blanket “match any price, anywhere” policy, but a carefully constructed system designed to offer competitive pricing while protecting their profit margins. Understanding the ins and outs of this policy is crucial for any savvy shopper looking to maximize their savings at Target.

Decoding Target’s Price Match Policy

Navigating the world of retail price matching can feel like deciphering ancient hieroglyphics. Target’s policy, while generally customer-friendly, isn’t an open-ended invitation to price gouge other retailers. It operates within clearly defined parameters, focusing on matching select online retailers and specific brick-and-mortar competitors. Let’s delve into the details.

Target’s Price Match Promise: What It Covers

Target’s price match guarantee extends to two primary categories:

• Select Online Retailers: Target will match prices from a specific list of online retailers. This list includes major players like Amazon, Walmart.com, BestBuy.com, Costco.com, and others (a full, up-to-date list can be found on Target’s website and mobile app). The key here is “select.” Target doesn’t price match every online retailer, so confirming eligibility is paramount.
• Local Competitors: Target also matches prices from select local competitors. This is where things get a bit more granular. The local competitor must be within a reasonable geographic radius of the Target store you’re visiting. Also, the item must be in stock at both Target and the local competitor at the time of the price match request. Target determines “local” and which specific competitors it will match.

Important Restrictions and Exclusions

Before you get too excited about your potential savings, it’s essential to understand what isn’t covered under Target’s price match policy. Here’s a breakdown of key restrictions:

• Marketplace Sellers: Target does not price match items sold by third-party marketplace sellers on websites like Amazon or Walmart.com. The item must be sold directly by the online retailer. If you see “Sold by XYZ Company” on Amazon, it’s a no-go.
• Clearance, Closeout, and Liquidation Sales: Items marked as clearance, closeout, or liquidation at other retailers are typically excluded from price matching. These are considered one-time deals and aren’t representative of regular pricing.
• “Black Friday” and “Cyber Monday” Deals: During major sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, price matching is often suspended or severely restricted. Target’s focus is on offering its own competitive deals during these periods. Look for specific exclusions in their promotional materials.
• Membership-Based Retailers: Prices from membership-based retailers like Costco or Sam’s Club are generally not matched unless you are a member of that retailer.
• Damaged, Used, or Refurbished Items: Target will only price match items that are new, identical in condition, and in original packaging at both Target and the competitor.
• Pricing Errors: Obvious pricing errors or typographical mistakes on competitor websites are usually not honored.
• Limited Quantity Items: If the competitor has a limited quantity of the item available, Target might not match the price.
• Rebates, Coupons, and Gift Card Offers: Price matching generally excludes any prices that require a mail-in rebate, coupon, or purchase with a gift card.
• Services: The price match policy typically applies to physical products only, not services like installation or warranties.

How to Request a Price Match at Target

Requesting a price match at Target is relatively straightforward. You have two primary options:

• In-Store: Present the lower price to a Target team member at the checkout. You’ll need to provide proof of the lower price, which can be a printed ad, a screenshot from the competitor’s website (on your phone or tablet), or the actual online listing on your phone. The team member will verify the price and eligibility and then adjust the price accordingly.
• Online: If you’ve already made a purchase online and find a lower price within 14 days, you can contact Target’s customer service through their website or by phone. You’ll need to provide your order number and proof of the lower price. If the price match is approved, you’ll receive a refund for the difference.

Target’s 14-Day Price Adjustment

This is an often-overlooked benefit: Target offers a 14-day price adjustment policy. If you purchase an item at Target and then find it advertised at a lower price at Target or at one of their eligible competitors within 14 days of your purchase, you can request a price adjustment and receive a refund for the difference. This applies to both in-store and online purchases. Keep your receipts!

Target Price Match FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Here are answers to frequently asked questions about Target’s price matching policy:

1. What documentation do I need to request a price match? You typically need proof of the lower price, such as a printed ad, a screenshot from the competitor’s website, or the live online listing on your phone. Make sure the screenshot includes the date and time.
2. Can I combine a price match with a Target Circle offer or a manufacturer’s coupon? Yes, you can usually combine a price match with other discounts, such as Target Circle offers and manufacturer’s coupons, further increasing your savings. Stack those discounts!
3. Does Target price match itself? Yes! If you buy something at Target and then see it advertised for a lower price at Target (in-store or online) within 14 days, you can request a price adjustment.
4. Can I price match after I’ve already made the purchase? Absolutely! Target offers a 14-day price adjustment policy. Just bring your receipt and proof of the lower price to customer service.
5. Does Target price match Amazon Prime prices? Yes, Target matches prices on Amazon.com, but the item must be sold directly by Amazon, not a third-party seller. Amazon Prime benefits (like free shipping) are not factored into the price match.
6. What if the competitor’s item is out of stock online? If the item is out of stock on the competitor’s website or in the local competitor’s store, Target will generally not match the price.
7. How does Target define a “local” competitor? “Local” is determined by Target store management and can vary by location. Generally, it refers to competitors within a reasonable driving distance of the Target store.
8. Can I price match on apparel items? Yes, Target’s price match policy applies to apparel items, as long as they meet all other eligibility requirements.
9. What happens if the competitor’s website has sales tax? Target will only match the pre-tax price of the item. Sales tax is not considered in the price match calculation.
10. Is there a limit to how many items I can price match? While Target doesn’t explicitly state a hard limit, they reserve the right to limit quantities on price-matched items, particularly if they suspect abuse of the policy.
11. Can I price match on gift cards? No, Target’s price match policy typically excludes gift cards.
12. Where can I find the official Target price match policy? You can find the most up-to-date version of Target’s price match policy on their website (Target.com), in the Target app, or by asking a team member at your local Target store.

By understanding the nuances of Target’s price match policy and the associated restrictions, you can confidently navigate your shopping trips and maximize your savings. Happy shopping!