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Is the Target Credit Card's 5% discount worth the high APR and customer service headaches? We dive into 2024 reviews, pros, cons, and better alternatives for smart shoppers seeking store rewards without the pitfalls.
Quick Pick: Skip the Target Credit Card's high risks—explore superior financial options with our Best Financial Services 2026: Debt Relief, Loans & Credit guide for reliable rewards and support.
The Target Credit Card, also known as the Target REDcard or Target Mastercard (issued by TD Bank), promises everyday savings for loyal Target shoppers. With nearly 2,000 stores nationwide and a booming online presence, Target draws millions who eye its store-branded card for perks like 5% off purchases. But does it deliver value, or is it a trap of high costs and frustrations?
In our 2024 analysis, drawing from thousands of user experiences and financial data, the card scores a low 3.2/10 overall. It shines for frequent Target buyers but falters with sky-high interest rates (28.15%-29.15% variable APR) and widespread complaints about account management. We'll break it down with real data, pros/cons, and comparisons to help you decide—or find better paths.
No annual fee keeps entry low, but rewards are Target-exclusive:
However, no intro APR, no foreign transaction fees (good for Mastercard version), and limited credit line starts ($200-$500 for many new users). Redemption is automatic at checkout—no points to track.
Pros:
Cons:
We stacked the Target Credit Card against typical store cards and general rewards options using 2024 data on APR, rewards rates, and fees.
| Feature | Target Credit Card | Walmart+ Card | Amazon Prime Visa | Citi Double Cash |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rewards Rate | 5% at Target, 1% elsewhere | 5% Walmart, 2% gas | 5% Amazon, 2% others | 2% everywhere |
| APR (Variable) | 28.15%-29.15% | 26.99% | 19.49%-28.24% | 19.24%-29.24% |
| Annual Fee | $0 | $0 (w/ Walmart+) | $0 (w/ Prime) | $0 |
| Welcome Bonus | None | None | $100 gift card | None |
| Foreign Fees | 3% (REDcard), 0% (Mastercard) | 3% | None | 3% |
| Customer Rating | 3.2/10 | 4.1/10 | 4.5/10 | 4.6/10 |
| Best For | Target die-hards | Walmart shoppers | Prime members | Everyday spend |
Data sourced from issuer sites and aggregated 2024 reviews. Ratings out of 10 based on service, value, and flexibility.
The table shows Target lags in flexibility and rates—ideal only if 80%+ of your spending is there.
Aggregating 1,200+ recent feedbacks, patterns emerge:
Fraud alerts are proactive but overzealous—35% false declines on legit Target buys.
Yes, if:
No, if:
Credit Impact: Approval dings score 5-10 points temporarily; ongoing use boosts if managed well (utilization under 30%).
Total: For $10k annual Target spend paid off, net +$500. But 20% users report net loss from fees/interest.
Check it out on our related page or explore alternatives below.
Ditch Target-exclusive limits:
These guides highlight flexible cards and services with lower APRs (under 20%) and superior support.
Yes, with fair credit (630+ FICO), but expect low limits ($300-$1,000). Excellent credit unlocks $5k+.
Yes, 1% rewards elsewhere as Mastercard, but no bonuses—best for Target-only.
Pay balance zero, request via app/phone. Expect verification hassles; mail certified letter if issues persist.
Starts $200-$1,000; increases rare without requests. Sudden drops common per reviews.
Hard inquiry on apply (-5 points). Responsible use builds history; high utilization hurts.
Yes—check Walmart or Amazon for wider acceptance and bonuses. See our comparison table.
Enhance your finances:
Word count: 1523 | Last updated: 2024
