Does Target Take Apple Pay? [Everything You Need to Know]

In 2024, it is weird to see stores not allowing NFC mobile payment methods like Apple or Google Pay. For instance, Walmart does not have this option today. Paying with your iPhone or Apple Watch is way more convenient than carrying a stack of plastic cards in your wallet, and yet lots of businesses avoid NFC for one reason or another. 

And what about Target? Does Target take Apple Pay? Let’s find out!

Apple Pay: How It Works

Apple Pay is Apple’s internal payment system that works with third-party credit cards, designed for quick transactions at various networks and online shopping points.

More than 507 million iPhone owners currently use Apple Pay, and the amount of transactions in the US alone last year reached $28.2 billion. In reality, almost any retailer in the US and beyond had reasons to utilize this NFC technology. NFC offers increased security, ease of payment, and lots of other benefits for the average consumer. The fact that you’ve likely used the service for your last purchase is an ample argument for its implementation.

A shopper can use Apple Pay at most stores and online services worldwide. This rule applies to all of Apple’s current product lines:

• iPhones of all generations come with a built-in NFC;
• iPads of all models come with a built-in NFC;
• Apple Watches of all types have NFC support;
• MacBooks and iMacs with current versions of macOS also have access to the system.

It’s incredibly convenient to simply approach the terminal, hold up your smartwatch, tablet, or smartphone, and complete the transaction. With a quick confirmation via Face ID or Touch ID (available on certain iPhone SE models, iPhone 5–8, and some iPads), there’s no need for cash, physical cards, or balance checks.

Benefits of Using Apple Pay

Convenience:

• Pay for your purchases quickly without having to carry cash or physical cards;
• You can use your iPhone or Apple Watch to complete transactions.

Security:

• Apple Pay uses tokenization to protect your card information, so the system receiving the payment doesn’t get to see the actual payment data;
• Each transaction is always verified with Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode.

Speed:

• NFC is typically faster than regular card transactions or cash payments;
• You can simply hold your device up to the payment terminal to complete the payment.

Rewards and promotions:

• Earn Target Circle rewards and other promotions with Apple Pay, maximizing the benefits of your purchases.

Wallet integration:

• Easily manage your payment methods, loyalty cards, and tickets in the Apple Wallet app;
• Access all your financial information in one place.

Contactless payments:

• Ideal for reducing physical contact, especially in busy retail environments.

Help with budgeting:

• Track your spending more easily by viewing transactions through the Wallet app.

This is why Target accepts Apple Pay at all of its stores. Apple Pay at Target works just like any other payment method or option. However, there are some nuances you should be aware of, which we’ll discuss further.

Does Target Have Apple Pay?

Does Target accept Apple Pay? Yes, even on the platform’s website and mobile app. This means that the question “Can you use Apple Pay at Target?” has been answered for now. 

But it hasn’t always been this way. It was all the way back in 2014 that Target announced plans to implement Apple Pay in its network. However, the company did not achieve full integration until 2019, when it officially added the payment system to its terminals and mobile applications.

Now, it’s time to discuss the practicalities of using this digital payment method.

How To Use Apple Pay at Target

Target has Apple Pay, meaning you won’t have to worry about cash or plastic cards. You can pay for purchases directly at the checkout or use the mobile app for remote payments, installment plans, and more. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits you can gain with each of these payment methods.

In-Store

To pay for a purchase directly in the store, you need to add your payment method (usually a bank-issued credit card) to your digital wallet in advance, authorize its use, and top up your balance. This can be done through your bank or via third-party services if they offer such options and do not impose additional fees.

To make a payment at the point of sale, follow these steps:

• Double-click the power button on your iPhone and scan your face with Face ID (or lightly tap the Home button if you’re using Touch ID);
• Select the card with sufficient funds for the purchase;
• Check where the NFC reader is located on the terminal;
• Press your smartphone or watch to the designated area (usually the terminal’s screen);
• Reauthorize the payment if needed;
• Receive the receipt and check if the amount on it matches the cost of the goods.

That’s how you can use Apple Pay for your Target purchases. Pretty simple, right? There is also the option to pay via the mobile app, which we’ll discuss next.

Via The Mobile App

The Target mobile app can make your shopping even more convenient. Here’s how you can make transactions anytime, from anywhere:

1. Download the App.

Find “Target” in the App Store or Google Play Store and download it.

2. Create an Account or Sign In.

Open the app and either create a new account or sign in to your existing Target account.

3. Browse Products.

Use the built-in tools to find the products you want to buy. You can also check offers and sales featured in the app.

4. Add Items to Cart.

Select the item you want to purchase. Remember to select the right options (size or color). Tap “Add to Cart.”

5. Review Your Cart.

Tap the cart icon to review your selection. Here, you can adjust quantities or remove items if you want to.

6. Proceed to Checkout.

Tap “Checkout” when you’re ready to make the purchase.

7. Choose Delivery or Pickup.

Choose between having the items delivered to your home or picking them up at the nearest Target store.

8. Enter Payment Information.

Add or select your payment method. Options may include credit/debit cards, Target gift cards, or Apple Pay.

9. Review and Place Your Order.

Confirm your shipping address, payment method, and items. Tap “Place Order” to complete your purchase.

10. Track Your Order.

After placing your order, you can track its status through the app. You’ll receive notifications about delivery or pickup.

Final Thought

So, Target takes Apple Pay, making your shopping simpler and faster. Use this method for a quality shopping experience, and keep an eye on the Rates portal for valuable and up-to-date content on all things financial.