Whether you’re an avid Target shopper or someone who only stops in every once in a while, you can’t deny Target’s unbeatable convenience. You can buy groceries, home decor, clothes for the whole family, video games, books, kids’ essentials, gift cards and more, all in one easy spot.
And if you want to save more at Target, you can even apply for one of the retailer’s Target Circle
Cards differ, and which one is the right choice for you.
The scoop on Target Circle cards
- Target offers a Target Circle Debit Card and two types of credit cards — the Target Circle Credit Card and the Target Mastercard.
- The debit and credit cards save shoppers 5% every time they shop at Target, plus other time- and money-saving perks.
- Applying for a Target Circle Credit Card can affect your credit score and it comes with some debt risk if approved; the Target Circle Debit Card is a less risky choice as payment comes from your linked checking account.
Types of Target Circle cards
Target has a variety of payment cards for consumers, including a store credit card and a Mastercard that can be used anywhere. If you’re not looking for a traditional credit card, however, there is also a Target Circle
Debit Card, which is a Target-specific retail debit card.
| The Target Circle Debit Card |
When you make purchases at Target with this debit card, the amount due will come directly from your existing checking account that you link to the card. |
| The Target Circle Credit Card |
This store credit card can only be used at Target, on Target.com or in the Target app. |
| The Target Mastercard | This is the only Target card that can be used at both Target and non-Target retailers. You can’t apply for it directly; it is offered as an upgrade to Target Circle Credit Card holders who maintain a good payment record and higher credit requirements. |
Target Circle card benefits
No matter which type of Target Circle credit or debit card you have, you’re afforded many perks and benefits as a cardholder, including:
- 5% off every eligible purchase at Target stores, at Target.com or through the Target mobile app; this discount stacks on top of Target Circle deals
- Free two-day shipping on most items (though you may need to hit a minimum spend threshold)
- 5% off Starbucks inside Target locations
- 5% off speciality gift cards purchased from Target (for travel, dining and more)
- An extra 30 days to return items beyond the standard return window
- 50% off Target Circle 360 for additional perks like same-day delivery, monthly freebies and early access to big sales; this amounts to $50 off the annual membership fee, every year
- No annual or monthly fees with any Target Circle card; if you don’t carry a balance and you make your payments on time, the credit card won’t cost you anything beyond what you spend on your Target purchases
Plus, an exclusive perk for Target Mastercard holders only: Earn 2% back on gas and dining, and 1% back on all other purchases outside of Target, anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
There’s also a bonus perk for credit (but not debit) cardholders: As of November 2026, you’ll earn $50 in Circle Rewards after spending $50 on qualifying purchases with your Target Circle Credit card within 60 days of approval.
What to consider before applying for a Target Circle Credit Card
| High APR | Just like any other store or retail credit card, both Target credit cards have a high APR — which means carrying a balance will rack up a lot of interest. |
| Limited Usage | If you get the Target Circle store credit or debit card, you’ll only be able to use the card (and earn rewards) at Target. Only the Mastercard can be used and earn rewards outside of Target. |
Alternative to the Target Circle Card
If you tend to shop more from Amazon than Target, the Prime Visa may be the better option for you.
The Prime Visa credit card from Amazon lets Prime members earn 5–6% cash back on Amazon purchases; 5% cash back on Whole Foods Market and Chase Travel; 2% cash back at gas stations, restaurants and local transit; and 1% cash back on everything else. The cashback rewards you receive can be used toward future Amazon.com purchases. Like the Target Circle Card, the Prime Visa has no annual fee — but keep in mind that an Amazon Prime membership is required and costs $139 annually.
You can also take advantage of 0% APR on certain purchases with the Prime Visa, which can be useful if you need help financing a large purchase. New cardholders also receive a $150 Amazon gift card after being approved. Amazon says they can provide a decision within 15 seconds of submitting your application.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Target Circle Card an actual credit card?
Yes, “Target Circle Card” refers to two actual credit cards (the Target Circle Credit Card and the Target Circle Mastercard), as well as the Target Circle Debit Card. Previously, it also referred to the Target Circle Reloadable Card which was discontinued in April 2026.
What is the difference between Target Circle Card and Target Credit Card?
“Target Circle Card” is a broad term for several credit and debit payment types, while the Target Circle Credit Card refers specifically to the Target store credit card that can only be used in Target stores and at Target.com. Meanwhile, the Target credit card that can be used anywhere is typically referred to specifically as the Target Mastercard.
Is the Target Circle credit card worth it?
Yes, a Target Circle Credit Card can be worth it if you shop at Target regularly and you are able to pay off your balance quickly to avoid the high interest rate. If not, keep in mind that the Target Circle Debit Card also gives you 5% off every cart without requiring a credit check or the risk of racking up debt.
When can I start using my Target Circle credit card?
You can start using your Target Circle Credit Card immediately upon approval. You’ll receive a temporary shopping pass in-store or have the ability to add the card to your digital wallet in the Target app to shop with it right away. You’ll then receive the physical plastic credit card in the mail within 7–10 days of approval, and activate that for immediate use going forward.
Is it hard to get a Target Circle Credit Card?
No, it is not hard for many shoppers to get a Target Circle Credit Card. However, Target does not share its minimum credit score or income requirements to qualify for the card. Some outside sources say the minimum credit score needed is somewhere between 620 and 690. Keep in mind that applying for the Target Circle Credit Card requires a hard credit inquiry which can temporarily decrease your credit score.
The good news is that you can still get most of the same benefits of the Target Circle Credit Card with a Target Circle Debit Card, including the 5% discount. Just remember that every debit card transaction will be automatically deducted from your associated bank account.
Can I use my Target Card as a regular credit card?
No, you cannot use your Target Circle Credit Card as a regular credit card at other retailers unless it has been upgraded to a Target Mastercard. Customers with the regular Target Circle Credit Card can only use the card for purchases from Target. If you have the Target Mastercard, you can use it to pay anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
Can you pay your Target credit card bill in-store or online?
Yes, you can pay your Target credit card online at target.com/mycirclecard. If you’re already at a physical Target store, you can also pay your bill in person.
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