You can pay your Target credit card through Target.com, the Target app, or by calling Target's customer service line.

Target's credit card is issued by Synchrony Bank, so payments go through Synchrony's system. The fastest way is logging into your account on Target.com or the mobile app — you'll see your balance and can pay any amount in a few minutes. If you prefer not to use the website or app, you can call Synchrony directly at the number on the back of your card, or set up automatic payments so the full balance or a fixed amount withdraws each month.

Payments made online or by phone typically post within one business day. If you're close to your due date, paying by phone or through the website is faster than mailing a check.

Key Takeaways

  • Log into Target.com or the Target app, go to your account, and pay any amount toward your balance in minutes.
  • Call Synchrony Bank at the number on your card to make a payment by phone without using the website.
  • Set up automatic payments through your bank account to have a fixed amount or your full balance withdrawn each month on a date you choose.
  • Online and phone payments usually post within one business day, so they're faster than mailing a check if your due date is near.
  • You can pay more than the minimum at any time — paying extra reduces interest charges on your remaining balance.

Paying through Target.com or the Target app

Start by going to Target.com on a computer or opening the Target app on your phone. Sign in with the email and password you use for your Target account. Tap or click on your account menu (usually shown as a profile icon or "Account" button), then look for a section labeled "Credit Card" or "Manage Your Card."

You'll see your current balance, minimum payment due, and due date. Select the option to make a payment. Enter the amount you want to pay — you can pay the full balance, the minimum, or any amount in between. Choose your payment method (usually a bank account) and confirm. The payment processes immediately, though it may take up to one business day to show on your account.

If you can't find the payment option in your account menu, look for a link that says "Make a Payment" or "Pay Your Bill" on the Target credit card page. Target's website layout changes occasionally, so the exact location may vary.

Paying by phone with Synchrony Bank

The phone number for Synchrony Bank customer service is on the back of your Target credit card. Call that number and follow the automated menu to reach the payment line. You'll need your card number and the amount you want to pay ready before you call.

A representative can walk you through the payment over the phone, or you can use the automated system to enter your payment information. Payments made by phone post within one business day. If you're calling close to your due date, ask the representative when the payment will post — if it won't make it by the due date, they may be able to note that you called to make a payment, which can help if a late fee is applied.

Setting up automatic payments

Automatic payments mean you don't have to remember to pay each month. Log into your Target account online or through the app, go to your credit card section, and look for "Autopay," "Automatic Payments," or "Recurring Payments." Select this option and choose whether you want to pay your full balance each month, a fixed dollar amount, or just the minimum.

Pick the date each month when the payment should be withdrawn from your bank account — many people choose a few days after payday to make sure the money is there. You'll need to provide your bank account number and routing number. Once set up, the payment happens automatically each month on the date you choose.

You can change or cancel automatic payments anytime through your account. If you set up autopay for the full balance, you'll never carry a balance and won't pay interest — but make sure your bank account has enough money on the payment date, or the payment may fail and you could face overdraft fees.

What happens if you miss a payment or pay late

If your payment doesn't arrive by the due date, Synchrony will charge a late fee (the amount varies but is typically $25 to $40 for the first late payment). Your interest rate may also increase. A payment is considered late if it posts after 5 p.m. Eastern Time on the due date, so paying online the day before is safer than waiting until the due date itself.

If you know you'll be late, call Synchrony before the due date. They can't waive the fee, but they may be able to note your account or discuss options. Paying as soon as you can after missing a due date stops additional late fees from piling up.

Paying more than the minimum

You can pay more than your minimum payment at any time without penalty. Paying extra reduces the amount of interest you'll owe on your remaining balance. If you have a balance of $1,000 at an interest rate of 20% annually, paying an extra $100 this month means you'll owe interest on $900 next month instead of $1,000.

Some people pay a fixed amount each month (like $200) regardless of the minimum, which helps them pay off the card faster. Others pay the full balance each month to avoid interest entirely. There's no downside to paying more than the minimum — it only helps your balance go down faster.

If you can't pay your full balance

If you're struggling to pay, contact Synchrony before you miss a payment. They may offer a hardship program that lowers your interest rate or lets you make smaller payments for a set period. These programs vary, and Synchrony doesn't advertise them widely, but they exist for customers in financial difficulty.

Paying at least the minimum on time protects your credit score. Missing payments damages your credit and makes it harder to borrow money in the future. If you're having trouble with multiple debts, a nonprofit credit counselor (search for "nonprofit credit counseling" in your area) can help you make a plan without charging you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for an online payment to show up?

Online payments usually post within one business day. If you pay on a Friday evening, it may not show until Monday. If your due date is coming up, paying a day or two early gives you a safety margin in case of delays.

Can I pay my Target credit card with a debit card or another credit card?

No. Target and Synchrony only accept payments from a bank account (checking or savings). You cannot pay with a debit card, another credit card, or cash through the online system. Paying with another credit card would also count as a cash advance on that card, which carries higher fees and interest.

What if I pay online but the payment doesn't go through?

If a payment fails, you'll usually get an email or notification. The most common reason is insufficient funds in your bank account. Log back into your account, check the status of your payment, and try again with a different bank account if you have one. If the problem persists, call Synchrony to troubleshoot.

Do I have to use Target.com to pay, or can I pay through my bank?

You can pay through your bank's bill pay system if they offer it. Log into your bank's website, set up Target/Synchrony as a payee, and schedule a payment. This works the same way as paying online directly, though it may take a day or two longer to post. Some people prefer this method because they manage all their bills in one place.

What's the difference between the minimum payment and paying the full balance?

The minimum payment is the smallest amount you can pay to stay current on your account. Paying only the minimum means you carry a balance and pay interest each month. Paying the full balance means you owe nothing and pay no interest. Paying more than the minimum but less than the full balance reduces interest but doesn't eliminate it.