Yes, Target accepts Apple Pay at all locations

Target takes Apple Pay at every store and online. In-store, you can pay with Apple Pay at the register using your iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch. Online, Apple Pay is available as a checkout option on Target.com and the Target app.

Apple Pay works at Target's standard checkout lanes and self-checkout. You don't need to do anything special — just select Apple Pay when you're ready to pay, and the terminal will prompt you to authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode.

Key Takeaways

  • Target accepts Apple Pay in stores at both regular and self-checkout lanes, and online through Target.com and the mobile app.
  • You can use any iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch that has Apple Pay set up with a valid payment method.
  • In-store Apple Pay payments process instantly without requiring a signature or PIN.
  • Target's RedCard discount does not apply to Apple Pay purchases unless you use an Apple Pay wallet that contains your RedCard.
  • Apple Pay works alongside other digital payment options like Google Pay and Samsung Pay at Target checkout.

How to pay with Apple Pay at Target stores

At the register, tell the cashier you're paying with Apple Pay or head to self-checkout. When the payment terminal is ready, hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the contactless reader at the top of the machine. Your device will vibrate and show a checkmark when the payment goes through.

If you're using an iPad, you'll need to authenticate the payment on your device first, then the terminal will process it. The whole transaction takes a few seconds. You won't need to sign anything or enter a PIN — Apple Pay handles the security on your end.

At self-checkout, the process is identical. Scan your items, proceed to payment, and hold your device near the contactless reader. The machine will confirm the transaction once authentication is complete. This method is often faster than inserting a card or entering payment details manually.

Online Apple Pay at Target

On Target.com, add items to your cart and go to checkout. When you reach the payment step, you'll see Apple Pay as an option alongside credit cards and other methods. Click or tap Apple Pay, and your device will ask you to authenticate. Target will then use the payment method stored in your Apple Wallet to complete the purchase.

The Target app works the same way. Apple Pay appears as a payment choice at checkout, and authentication happens on your phone. This is often faster than entering card details manually, especially if you're buying on a mobile device.

For Target.com orders, Apple Pay can also speed up shipping address confirmation, since your device may already have that information stored. You can review and change the address before finalizing the purchase.

What payment methods work with Apple Pay at Target

Apple Pay accepts most major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. You can also add a Target RedCard (debit or credit) to Apple Pay and use it at checkout.

If your RedCard is in your Apple Wallet, you'll get the RedCard discount (usually 5 percent off) when you pay with Apple Pay. If you use a different card through Apple Pay, the RedCard discount won't apply. Some banks and credit unions also offer their own cards through Apple Pay, and those work at Target as well.

Target's other digital payment options

Beyond Apple Pay, Target accepts Google Pay and Samsung Pay at all registers. These work the same way as Apple Pay — hold your device near the contactless reader and authenticate. Target also takes standard credit and debit cards, cash, and checks at most locations.

Target Circle members can also save their payment methods in the Target app for faster checkout, though this is separate from Apple Pay. You can combine a Target Circle account with Apple Pay for the fastest experience. Linking your Circle account ensures you earn rewards and receive personalized offers regardless of which payment method you choose.

Contactless payment limits at Target

Target does not set a limit on contactless payments like Apple Pay. You can use Apple Pay for any purchase amount, from a single item to a full cart. Some banks or card issuers may have their own limits, but Target's system accepts contactless payments of any size.

If a transaction is declined, it's usually because your card issuer flagged it as unusual activity, not because of Target's policies. Contact your bank if a payment fails, and they can help you complete the transaction. You can also ask a cashier to process the payment using a different method if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Apple Pay with Target Circle?

Yes. You can link your Target Circle account to the Target app and still pay with Apple Pay. Your Circle benefits and rewards will apply regardless of which payment method you use, as long as you're signed into your Circle account at checkout.

Does Apple Pay work at Target self-checkout?

Yes, Apple Pay works at all self-checkout stations. Hold your device near the contactless reader just as you would at a regular register. The payment processes the same way, and you won't need to enter a PIN or sign anything.

What if the contactless reader doesn't work?

Ask the cashier to process your payment as a regular card transaction instead. You can also pay with a physical card, cash, or another method. If contactless readers are consistently broken at your store, contact Target customer service to report the issue.

Can I use Apple Pay to buy Target gift cards?

Yes, Apple Pay works for gift card purchases just like any other transaction. You can buy physical gift cards at checkout or digital Target gift cards online, both using Apple Pay.