Table of Contents

Does Target Match Online Prices? Decoding Target’s Price Match Policy

Yes, Target absolutely matches online prices! But, like any retail giant navigating the wild west of e-commerce, there are nuances and qualifications. Target’s price match policy is a powerful tool for savvy shoppers, allowing you to snag the convenience of in-store shopping with the savings of online deals. Let’s delve into the specifics of how to leverage this policy to your advantage, becoming a true Target price-matching pro.

Understanding Target’s Price Match Promise

Target’s commitment to competitive pricing is embodied in its Price Match Guarantee. This guarantee essentially promises that if you find a lower price on an identical item at a qualifying competitor (either online or in-store), Target will match that price at the time of purchase or within 14 days of your purchase date. The key is understanding qualifying competitor, identical item, and the proof you’ll need to present to score the lower price.

Qualifying Competitors: Who Makes the Cut?

Not every online retailer is eligible for a price match. Target’s list of qualifying online competitors is carefully curated and primarily includes major players. This list may change over time, so it’s always a good idea to check Target’s official website or app for the most up-to-date information. Here are some usual suspects that typically make the cut:

Amazon.com: The e-commerce behemoth is almost always included.
Walmart.com: Another retail giant and frequent price-matching target (pun intended!).
BestBuy.com: A go-to for electronics and appliances.
Costco.com: But take note, price matching here may require a Costco membership.
Sam’sClub.com: Similar to Costco, membership might be needed for verification.
Kohl’s.com: Another department store known for frequent sales.
Macy’s.com: An established department store with a strong online presence.
Wayfair.com: If you are looking for home goods!

It’s crucial to verify that the online retailer you want Target to match is on their approved list before heading to the store or initiating an online request. Small or regional online stores are unlikely to be included.

What Constitutes an “Identical Item”?

To qualify for a price match, the item must be exactly identical. This means the same brand, model number, size, color, quantity, and condition. Here’s what to watch out for:

Model Number: This is the most critical factor, especially for electronics and appliances. A slight variation in the model number usually means it’s not the same product.
UPC (Universal Product Code): Another identifier that must match precisely.
Color and Size: These are crucial for apparel, shoes, and items where variations are common. Make sure the online item’s color and size match exactly what Target is selling.
Condition: The item must be new. Target won’t match prices on used, refurbished, or open-box items.
Availability: Both Target and the competitor must have the item in stock at the time of the price match.

Presenting Your Proof: Making the Process Seamless

Having the right proof is essential for a smooth price-matching experience. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

For In-Store Price Matching:
- Show the lower price to a Target team member. This can be done in several ways:
  - On Your Smartphone: Have the webpage with the lower price pulled up on your phone.
  - Printout: Print the webpage showing the lower price.
  - Target App: Sometimes, Target’s app allows you to scan the item and automatically check for price matches.
For Online Price Matching (Target.com):
- Contact Target Customer Service: The best approach is to chat with a Target customer service representative through the Target website or app. Be prepared to provide the URL of the competitor’s product page.

Be prepared to show that the item is in stock on the competitor’s website and ready to ship. Screenshots can be helpful, but live links are always preferred.

Situations Where Target’s Price Match Policy Might Not Apply

While Target’s price match policy is generous, there are certain circumstances where it doesn’t apply:

Clearance, Closeout, Liquidation Sales: Target generally doesn’t match prices on items being sold as clearance, closeout, or liquidation items.
Deals Requiring a Membership: As mentioned earlier, matching prices from Costco or Sam’s Club might require you to have a valid membership.
Third-Party Sellers: Target typically only matches prices from items sold directly by the qualifying online competitor, not from third-party sellers on those platforms (like marketplace sellers on Amazon).
Limited-Time Offers/Flash Sales: Price matching might not be honored on limited-time offers, flash sales, or daily deals.
Pricing Errors: If the competitor’s price is clearly a pricing error, Target is unlikely to match it.
Gift Card Offers: Target might not match prices that are only available when purchasing a gift card.
Buy One, Get One (BOGO) Offers: While Target does price match, they often don’t allow stacking BOGO offers.

Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Savings

Here are a few additional tips to help you become a Target price-matching master:

Do Your Research: Before heading to the store or starting an online chat, research the prices of the items you want to buy on qualifying competitor websites.
Check Target Circle: Always check the Target Circle app for additional discounts, coupons, and cashback offers that can be combined with price matching for even greater savings.
Be Polite and Patient: Customer service representatives are more likely to help you if you are friendly and patient.
Know the Policy: Familiarize yourself with the official Target price match policy on their website. This will help you avoid misunderstandings and ensure a smooth experience.
Keep Your Receipt: If you are requesting a price match after your purchase, keep your receipt handy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I price match after I’ve already made a purchase?

Yes, you can! Target offers price adjustments within 14 days of your purchase. Just bring your receipt and proof of the lower price to customer service.

2. Does Target price match Amazon Prime prices?

Generally, yes, Target will price match Amazon.com, including prices available to Amazon Prime members, as long as the item is sold directly by Amazon and meets all other price match criteria.

3. Can I use a coupon and a price match on the same item?

Potentially. The policy varies depending on the specific coupon. Target Circle offers can often be stacked, but manufacturer coupons may have restrictions. It’s best to ask a Target team member for clarification.

4. Does Target price match items that are out of stock online?

No. The item must be in stock on both Target’s website/store and the competitor’s website at the time of the price match.

5. What if the online competitor charges shipping? Does Target include that in the price match?

No. Target typically doesn’t factor shipping costs into the price match. They will match the item’s price itself, excluding shipping fees.

6. Can I price match multiple items in a single transaction?

Yes, you can price match multiple items in a single transaction, as long as each item meets the requirements of the price match policy.

7. Does Target price match services (like installation or warranties)?

No. Target’s price match policy primarily applies to physical products, not services.

8. What if I don’t have my receipt for a price adjustment?

If you used a credit or debit card, Target might be able to look up your purchase history. However, it’s always best to keep your receipt for a price adjustment request.

9. Can I price match an item that’s on sale at Target itself?

Yes, absolutely! If Target lowers its own price on an item within 14 days of your purchase, you’re entitled to a price adjustment.

10. What if the online price is lower, but the item is backordered?

Target will likely not match the price if the item is backordered on the competitor’s website. The item needs to be available for immediate purchase and shipment.

11. How do I price match on the Target app?

The Target app sometimes offers a built-in price match scanner that allows you to scan the item and automatically check for price matches. If this feature isn’t available, contact customer service through the app.

12. Does Target price match its own website (Target.com) in-store?

Yes, Target will match prices between their online store (Target.com) and their physical stores. If you find a lower price online for the same item, they will honor it in-store.

By understanding Target’s price match policy and following these tips, you can confidently shop at Target, knowing you’re getting the best possible price!