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Target Circle vs Redcard: The Target Card Refresh
July 1, 2025
Target has rebranded its Redcard lineup into the new Target Circle Card. Here’s what changed, what stayed, and how to decide which version fits your wallet.
Target shoppers have noticed a big shift at checkout. The familiar Target Redcard name is being replaced by the new Target Circle Card Mastercard, part of a broader refresh that ties together the Target Circle loyalty program, Target Circle 360 membership, and Target’s debit and credit card options.
If you shop at Target often, understanding how these updates work can help you save more and choose the right setup for your spending.
Why understanding Target Circle vs Redcard matters now
Target’s refresh unifies its loyalty and payment systems. The Target Circle Card now connects directly to the Target Circle loyalty program, so your discounts, coupons, and rewards apply automatically at checkout through the Target app or target.com.
Existing Redcard holders don’t need to reapply. Their cards continue to work under the new branding, with the same 5% savings and perks.
Knowing how the Target Circle Card fits into the broader Target Circle ecosystem helps you decide whether to keep your card, upgrade to a credit version, or explore other credit card options that might earn more cash back on everyday spending.
What is Target Circle, and how does the loyalty program work?
Target Circle is Target’s free loyalty program that gives members access to exclusive deals, personalized coupons, and rotating offers.
You can join through the Target app or target.com, and once you’re a Target Circle member, discounts apply automatically at checkout.
Members earn Target Circle rewards on eligible purchases, which can be redeemed on future Target purchases. You’ll also get birthday perks and access to limited-time partnerships like Ulta Beauty at Target.
How Target Circle compares to other retailer loyalty programs
Target Circle competes with Walmart+ and Amazon Prime, but unlike those paid memberships, it’s completely free.
Savings come from coupons, personalized offers, and Target Circle deals, not from an upfront annual fee. For shoppers who prefer flexibility without commitment, it’s a strong value.
What was the Target Redcard?
The Target Redcard was Target’s branded credit card and debit card program. It offered a flat 5% discount on most eligible items, free two-day shipping, and extended returns.
Redcard holders could choose between:
- A credit card version issued by a Target issuer (usable at Target and online)
- A debit card version linked directly to a checking account or bank account
Both versions had no annual fee and were popular for their instant savings at Target stores and target.com.
What is the new Target Circle Card?
The Target Circle Card is the rebranded version of the Redcard. It keeps the same structure—available as both a credit card and debit card—but now integrates directly with the Target Circle loyalty program.
You’ll still get 5% off Target purchases, free two-day shipping, and extended returns, but now your Target Circle rewards and Target Circle deals sync automatically.
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Is the Target Circle Card a credit card?
Yes, the Target Circle Card can be either a credit card or a debit card.
- The credit card version is a Target Mastercard that can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
- The debit card version links to your bank account and works only at target.com and Target stores.
Both versions earn the same Target Circle rewards and perks. Both versions have no annual fee and include the same in-store and online perks. Your credit score determines approval for the credit version, while the debit version requires no credit check.
Target Circle Card vs Target Redcard: What actually changed
The biggest shift is branding and integration. The Target Circle Card now lives inside the Target Circle loyalty program, simplifying how discounts and rewards program perks apply.
Key updates:
- Automatic savings: Discounts apply at checkout without manual activation for most offers.
- Unified app experience: Manage your card, Target Circle 360, and Target Circle rewards in one place.
- Same perks: 5% off, free two-day shipping, and extended returns remain.
Target Circle Card perks and benefits breakdown
The biggest shift is branding and tighter integration with the Target Circle rewards program. Redcard holders were transitioned to the new Target Circle Card structure. The core perks—5% off Target purchases, free two-day shipping, extended returns—remain. Now, the experience is centered around the Target app and digital checkout, making it easier to stack Target Circle deals, exclusive deals, and cardholder perks in one place.
Here’s a full breakdown of what’s offered:
- 5% off all Target purchases every day
- Free two-day shipping on most eligible items from target.com
- Same-day delivery through Shipt for qualifying orders
- Extended returns (an extra 30 days)
- Exclusive deals for Target Circle members
- No annual fee
Target Circle 360 and paid membership options
Target Circle 360 is the new paid membership layer on top of the free Target Circle loyalty program.
It includes:
- Unlimited same-day delivery on orders over $35 via Shipt
- Free two-day shipping on most items
- Extra 30 days for returns
- Access to 100+ additional retailers through the Shipt Marketplace
The annual fee is $99, but Target Circle Card holders can often access a $49 first year promotional rate. It’s Target’s answer to Amazon Prime and Walmart+, focused on convenience for frequent Target shoppers.
How Target Circle compares to other store credit cards
The Target Circle Card's instant discount model sets it apart from many other retailers. Store cards from Walmart or Amazon typically offer rewards as points or cash back that you redeem later. Target’s immediate 5% price reduction is simple and requires no extra steps.
The main tradeoff is that the rewards are locked to Target. A general-purpose rewards card might offer 5% back on rotating categories or a flat 2% cash back everywhere, giving you more flexible rewards.
If you prefer flexibility, cards like the Citi Double Cash® Card or Chase Freedom Flex® can deliver higher cash back across categories. You can compare these options using Kudos’ Explore tool to see which card fits your spending.
Who should consider the Target Circle Card?
The Target Circle Card makes sense if you:
- Shop frequently at target.com or Target stores
- Want automatic 5% savings without tracking coupons
- Prefer a debit card that doesn’t affect your credit score
- Already use Target Circle 360 or Shipt for same-day delivery
If you spend heavily outside Target, pairing it with a general credit card like the Chase Freedom Unlimited® or Prime Visa can help you earn more cash back on non-Target purchases.
Kudos Tip: Test Your Target Setup Before You Apply
Kudos helps you compare the Target Circle Card with other credit cards to see which delivers better value.
With Test Drive, you can preview your first year rewards before applying—no impact on your credit score.
The Explore tool shows how Target Circle Card perks stack up against cards that offer cash back, travel points, or flexible redemptions.
You’ll see exactly how much you could earn from Target purchases, Target giftcards, and everyday spending before making a decision.
FAQs about Target’s loyalty programs
What is Target Circle?
Target Circle is Target’s free loyalty program offering coupons, exclusive deals, and Target Circle rewards that apply automatically at checkout.
What is the Target Red Circle Card?
Some shoppers refer to the Target Circle Card as the “Target Red Circle Card.” It’s the same product under the new branding.
Is Target Redcard a credit card?
Yes. The Target Redcard was available as both a credit card and a debit card. The new Target Circle Card keeps that structure.
Does the Target Circle Card have an annual fee?
No. The Target Circle Card has no annual fee for either version.
Can you use the Target Circle Card outside Target?
The Target Circle Mastercard can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted. The debit card and store-only versions are limited to target.com and Target stores.
Bottom Line
The new Target Circle Card merges Redcard perks with the Target Circle loyalty program. You still get 5% off, free two-day shipping, and extended returns, now with automatic savings and digital integration.
For frequent Target shoppers, it’s a simple way to save. For broader spending, pairing it with a high-earning cash back card can deliver even more value.
Use Kudos’ Explore tool to simulate your Target spending and see which card setup earns you the most in your first year.
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Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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