You can pay your Target credit card online through Target.com, the Target mobile app, or by logging into your card account directly with Synchrony Bank

Target credit card payments go to Synchrony Bank, which manages the card on Target's behalf. You have three main routes: pay through Target's website or app (fastest if you're already shopping there), pay directly through Synchrony's website, or set up automatic payments so the bill comes out on its own each month. Each method takes a few minutes to set up the first time, then becomes routine.

The payment posts to your account the same day you submit it if you pay before the cutoff time (usually early afternoon), or the next business day if you pay after hours or on a weekend. There is no fee to pay online, and you can pay any amount from the minimum due up to your full balance.

Key Takeaways

  • Payments made through Target.com, the Target app, or Synchrony's website all post the same day if submitted before the cutoff time.
  • You can set up automatic payments through Synchrony so your bill is paid on a date you choose each month, reducing the risk of a late payment.
  • Paying online costs nothing and takes a few minutes; there is no fee for using any of the three payment methods.
  • Your Target credit card statement and payment history live in your Synchrony account, separate from your Target.com shopping account.

Paying through Target.com or the Target app

If you have a Target account and a Target credit card, you can pay your bill directly from Target's website or mobile app without logging into a separate account. On Target.com, look for "Credit Card" or "Manage My Card" in the account menu, usually found under your name in the top right corner. The app has a similar option in the account section.

Click through to your card details, and you will see your current balance, due date, and a button to make a payment. Enter the amount you want to pay and confirm your payment method (the card itself, a bank account, or another linked payment source). The payment processes immediately and shows up in your account within hours.

This route is convenient if you are already logged into Target to shop, but it requires you to have set up a Target.com account first. If you only use your Target credit card in stores and have never created an online account, you will need to do that before you can pay this way.

Paying directly through Synchrony Bank

Synchrony Bank is the actual card issuer, so you can also log in to your account at Synchrony's website (synchronybank.com) to pay your bill. This is the most direct route and works whether or not you have a Target.com account. Go to the login page, enter your card number and PIN or password, and navigate to the payment section.

From there, you can make a one-time payment or set up automatic payments. You will need a bank account number and routing number to link a checking or savings account as your payment source. Payments typically post within one business day, though Synchrony guarantees they will post by your due date if you submit them at least three business days before the due date.

Synchrony also lets you view your full statement, transaction history, and rewards balance in one place. If you prefer not to use Target's website or app, this is your primary payment hub.

Setting up automatic payments

Both Target and Synchrony let you schedule automatic payments so you never have to remember to pay manually. With automatic payments, you choose an amount (minimum due, a fixed dollar amount, or your full balance) and a date each month, and the payment comes out of your bank account on that schedule.

To set this up through Synchrony, log into your account, find the autopay or automatic payment section, and link a bank account. Choose your payment date — many people pick a few days after payday to make sure the money is in the bank. You can change or cancel the automatic payment anytime, and you will receive a confirmation email each time a payment is processed.

Automatic payments reduce the risk of missing a due date, which can trigger a late fee and affect your credit score. Even if you set up autopay, you should still check your statement occasionally to make sure the payment went through and to catch any fraudulent charges.

What happens if you pay late or miss a payment

If your payment does not arrive by the due date shown on your statement, Synchrony charges a late fee (the amount varies but is typically $25 to $40 for the first late payment). A late payment also appears on your credit report and can lower your credit score, even if you pay just one day late.

If you realize you will miss the due date, contact Synchrony as soon as possible. Some cardholders have had late fees waived if they call before the due date and explain the situation, though Synchrony is not required to do this. Paying online takes only a few minutes, so submitting your payment a week or two early removes this risk entirely.

If you fall behind on multiple payments, Synchrony may freeze your card and report the account to a collection agency. At that point, the damage to your credit score is much larger, and you may face legal action to recover the debt.

Payment timing and cutoff times

Payments submitted online before the cutoff time (usually between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Eastern time, though this varies) post the same day. Payments submitted after the cutoff or on weekends and holidays post the next business day. Synchrony's website will tell you the exact cutoff time when you are making a payment.

Your due date is the date by which Synchrony must receive your payment, not the date you submit it. If your due date falls on a weekend or holiday, Synchrony extends it to the next business day. To be safe, submit your payment at least three business days before your due date, especially if you are paying from a bank account (which can take an extra day to clear).

If you are paying with a debit card or credit card instead of a bank account, the payment usually clears faster — often the same day. Check your statement a few days after paying to confirm the payment posted and your balance updated correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay my Target credit card with a different payment method, like PayPal or Apple Pay?

No. Synchrony only accepts payments from a linked bank account, debit card, or credit card. You cannot pay through PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or other digital wallets. If you want to use one of those services, you would need to transfer money to your bank account first, then pay from there.

What if I pay more than my balance?

If you overpay, Synchrony will credit the extra amount to your account. You can use that credit toward future purchases, or you can request a refund. Refunds typically take five to seven business days to appear in your bank account. There is no fee for overpaying or requesting a refund.

Do I earn rewards on my Target credit card when I pay the bill?

No. Rewards are earned only when you use the card to make purchases at Target or other retailers. Paying your bill does not earn rewards, and paying with a different payment method does not affect your rewards balance.

Is my payment information secure when I pay online?

Yes. Both Target and Synchrony use encryption and security measures to protect your payment information. Your bank account number and other sensitive details are not stored in plain text and are not shared with third parties. If you see suspicious activity on your account, contact Synchrony immediately.

What if I want to pay by phone or mail instead?

You can call Synchrony at the number on the back of your Target credit card to make a payment by phone. For mail payments, your statement will include a payment coupon with an address. Mail payments take longer to post (usually five to seven business days), so plan ahead to avoid late fees.