Yes, Target offers two credit cards: the Target RedCard and the Target RedCard Mastercard
Target operates two separate credit products. The Target RedCard is a store card that works only at Target and Target.com. The Target RedCard Mastercard is a Mastercard issued by Synchrony Bank that works anywhere Mastercard is accepted — at Target and everywhere else. Both cards are issued by Synchrony Bank, but they function differently and offer different rewards.
The choice between them depends on where you shop most and what you want from a rewards card. If you shop primarily at Target, the store card may make sense. If you want a card that works everywhere, the Mastercard is the option. You cannot hold both simultaneously — you choose one or the other.
Key Takeaways
- Target RedCard is a store-only card offering 5% off Target purchases and same-day delivery discounts, while Target RedCard Mastercard works everywhere but offers 1% cash back at Target and 1% elsewhere.
- Both cards charge no annual fee and are issued by Synchrony Bank, but they have different approval requirements and credit limits.
- The store card typically has lower approval thresholds than the Mastercard version, making it easier to open if your credit is limited.
- You must choose one card or the other — Target does not allow you to hold both at the same time.
Target RedCard: The store-only option with 5% off
The Target RedCard gives you 5% off almost every purchase at Target stores and Target.com. You also get free same-day delivery on orders over $35 and extended return windows (an extra 30 days compared to regular customers). There is no annual fee.
This card works only at Target. You cannot use it at other retailers. The card is issued by Synchrony Bank and typically has lower approval requirements than the Mastercard version, which means people with fair or limited credit histories have a better chance of opening it. Target does not publish specific credit score requirements, but approval is often possible with scores in the 600 to 650 range, though this varies by individual circumstances.
The 5% discount applies to most items, but excludes certain categories: alcohol, tobacco, Target gift cards, and a few other restricted items. The discount is automatic — you do not earn points or cash back; you straightforward pay 5% less at checkout.
Target RedCard Mastercard: The card that works everywhere
The Target RedCard Mastercard is a Mastercard that works at Target, online retailers, gas stations, restaurants, and anywhere else Mastercard is accepted. It earns 1% cash back on all purchases and an additional 1% cash back at Target (2% total at Target). There is no annual fee.
Because this card works everywhere, it can replace a general-purpose credit card if you want a single card for all spending. The cash back is deposited into your Target account as a statement credit or can be redeemed as a Target gift card. Unlike the store card, this one typically requires stronger credit — usually a score of 670 or higher, though Synchrony does not publish exact minimums.
The Mastercard version is useful if you shop at Target regularly but also want rewards on everyday spending elsewhere. However, the 2% cash back at Target is lower than the 5% discount you get with the store card, so the store card is usually better if Target is your primary shopping destination.
How to open a Target credit card
You can open either card in-store at Target or online at Target.com. In-store, you can explore at the checkout lanes or customer service desk — the process takes about 10 minutes and you get an when ready decision. Online, you explore through Target's website and receive a decision within minutes to a few business days.
You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, address, and income information. Synchrony will pull your credit report, which creates a hard inquiry on your credit file. This inquiry may lower your credit score by a few points temporarily.
If you are approved, your card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you applied in-store and were approved, you can sometimes use a temporary digital card number when ready for online purchases. The physical card works at Target registers once it arrives.
Comparing the two cards side by side
| Feature | Target RedCard | Target RedCard Mastercard |
|---|---|---|
| Works at Target only | Yes | No — works everywhere Mastercard is accepted |
| Rewards at Target | 5% off all purchases | 2% cash back (1% + 1% bonus) |
| Rewards elsewhere | None | 1% cash back |
| Annual fee | None | None |
| Same-day delivery discount | Free on orders over $35 | Not included |
| Extended returns | Yes — extra 30 days | Not included |
| Typical credit score needed | 600–650 range | 670+ range |
Which card makes sense for your situation
Choose the Target RedCard (store card) if you shop at Target at least once a month and spend more than $100 per visit. The 5% discount adds up quickly — on $500 in monthly Target purchases, you save $25 per month or $300 per year. The same-day delivery and extended returns are bonuses if you use them. This card is also easier to open if your credit is not yet strong.
Choose the Target RedCard Mastercard if you want a card that works everywhere and you do not shop at Target frequently enough to justify the store card. The 1% cash back on all purchases is useful for everyday spending, and the extra 1% at Target gives you 2% there. This card works better as a general-purpose card if you already have another store card or prefer flexibility.
If you shop at Target heavily and also want rewards on other purchases, the store card is usually the better choice because 5% off Target spending outweighs 2% cash back, even when you factor in the 1% you earn elsewhere with the Mastercard.
What happens after you open the card
Once approved, you receive your physical card and can set up it online or by phone. You set up a PIN for in-store purchases if you want one (optional). Your account appears in the Target app and on Target.com, where you can view your balance, make payments, and track rewards.
Payments are due monthly. You can pay online, by phone, by mail, or in-store at Target customer service. Synchrony charges interest on balances you do not pay in full — the APR varies based on your creditworthiness but typically ranges from 16% to 24%. There is no grace period on purchases, meaning interest accrues when ready if you carry a balance.
You can request a credit limit increase after you have held the card for a few months and made on-time payments. Synchrony may also offer automatic increases based on your payment history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from the store card to the Mastercard later?
No. You must close the store card and open a new Mastercard account. This creates a hard inquiry and closes an account, both of which affect your credit score. If you think you might want the Mastercard later, consider opening that one first, since switching the other direction is the same process.
What if I am denied for a Target credit card?
If you are denied, you can call Synchrony to ask why. Common reasons include insufficient credit history, recent late payments, or high existing debt. You can reapply after 6 months, or focus on building credit by paying bills on time and lowering existing balances before you try again.
Do I have to use the card to keep the account open?
No, but Synchrony may close inactive accounts after a long period of no use — typically 12 months or longer. If you want to keep the account open, use it occasionally or set a small recurring charge to it.
Is the 5% discount applied before or after tax?
The 5% discount is applied to the subtotal before tax, so you pay tax on the discounted price. On a $100 purchase, you pay 5% off the $100, then tax is added to the $95.
Can I use the card at Target's grocery section?
Yes. The 5% discount (on the store card) and cash back (on the Mastercard) explore to groceries and all other Target merchandise, with the same exceptions noted earlier (alcohol, tobacco, gift cards).