No, Target Does Not Have a Standard Senior Discount
Target's official policy confirms that there is no general, company-wide senior citizen discount. While this may be disappointing for those accustomed to senior savings at other stores like Kohl's or Ross, it's important to know that many other options are available to help older shoppers save money at the popular retailer. By understanding and utilizing these alternative programs, you can still significantly reduce your overall spending at Target.
Leveraging the Free Target Circle Loyalty Program
Target Circle is the company's primary loyalty program and is completely free to join. By signing up online or through the Target app, members can access a range of benefits and special promotions. This is the most accessible and widely available way for seniors to save without having to apply for a credit card.
- Automatic Deals: As a Target Circle member, deals are automatically applied at checkout, so there's no need to clip coupons or remember codes.
- Personalized Offers: The program provides personalized deals based on your shopping habits, often found in the app's "Bonuses" section.
- Birthday Reward: Members receive a 5% discount on a single purchase during their birthday month.
- Target Circle Week: During special sale events like Target Circle Week, members get access to exclusive, deeper discounts across various product categories.
- Community Support: Your purchases as a member can help direct where Target donates to local and national nonprofits.
Maximize Savings with the Target Circle Card
The Target Circle Card, formerly known as the RedCard, offers the most consistent savings for frequent Target shoppers. This card is available in both debit and credit forms, meaning you can choose the option that best fits your financial needs. The debit card links directly to your checking account, providing the 5% discount without the risk of credit card debt.
Benefits of the Target Circle Card:
- 5% Discount: Get an extra 5% off every eligible purchase, every day, in-store and online.
- Extended Returns: Cardholders receive an additional 30 days to return most items beyond the standard return policy.
- Free Shipping: Enjoy free two-day shipping on hundreds of thousands of items from Target.com.
AARP Discounts at Target Optical
While AARP does not offer a general store discount at Target, members can find significant savings specifically at Target Optical through a partnership with EyeMed.
Target Optical AARP Benefits:
- $10 Off: Save an extra $10 on a complete pair of glasses, frames, lenses, or contacts.
- 50% Off Lenses: AARP members can receive 50% off prescription lenses with the purchase of a frame.
- 50% Off Additional Pairs: Get 50% off the purchase of additional complete pairs of prescription glasses or sunglasses.
Veteran and Military Discounts
For senior veterans and their families, Target offers a dedicated military discount. This is one of the few status-based discounts provided by the retailer. To qualify, you must verify your military or veteran status through a free Target Circle account. The discount is typically a 10% off coupon on an eligible shopping trip and is often offered during patriotic holidays like Veterans Day and the Fourth of July.
Other Savings Strategies for All Shoppers
Beyond the structured programs, anyone can employ these strategies to save more at Target:
- Weekly Ads and Deals of the Day: Check the weekly ad in-store or online for rotating sales and promotions. Daily deals often feature items discounted by 20% to 50%.
- Clearance Markdowns: Keep an eye out for clearance items, which are often marked down several times until sold. The discount is indicated by a red sticker on the price tag.
- Price Matching: Target's price match guarantee ensures you get the best price available. They will match the price of an item from select online competitors (including Amazon.com) and local print ads.
- Reusable Bag Credit: Save $0.05 for each reusable bag you bring and use for your purchase.
Comparison of Target Savings Programs
| Feature | Target Circle (Free) | Target Circle Card | AARP at Target Optical | Military Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Free (Debit/Credit options) | AARP Membership fee | Free (Requires verification) |
| Primary Benefit | Automatic deals, personalized bonuses, birthday reward | 5% off most purchases every day | Discounts on eyewear and contacts | 10% off special events |
| Eligibility | Anyone who signs up | Approved applicants | Active AARP members | Verified military/veterans |
| Free Shipping | On orders over $35 | Free 2-day shipping on most items | No, standard shipping applies | No, standard shipping applies |
| Extended Returns | No, standard return policy | Yes, 30 extra days | No, standard return policy | No, standard return policy |
| Best for... | Casual, less-frequent shoppers | Everyday, frequent Target shoppers | Eyewear purchases | Veterans and their families |
Conclusion: Your Roadmap to Target Savings
While the answer to the question "Does Target have a senior discount?" is a definitive no, it is by no means an obstacle to saving money. By combining the benefits of the free Target Circle program, considering the Target Circle Card for an everyday 5% discount, and taking advantage of specialized offers like the military or AARP optical benefits, senior shoppers can create a personalized savings strategy. These alternatives provide a comprehensive way to ensure you are getting the best value on your purchases, whether you're shopping for everyday essentials, electronics, or home goods. Remember to sign up for Target Circle, check for daily deals, and consider the Circle Card to maximize your savings on every Target run. For further savings tips, explore resources like those available on MSN Money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a day of the week with special senior discounts at Target?
No, Target does not have a designated senior discount day. They focus on providing discounts through their Target Circle program and other promotional offers that are available to all customers on any day of the week.
How can I get a 5% discount at Target?
The most reliable way to get a 5% discount at Target is to sign up for and use the Target Circle Card (formerly RedCard), which is available as both a debit and credit card. The discount is applied automatically at checkout on most eligible purchases.
Does AARP provide a discount for senior shoppers at Target?
AARP does not offer a general store-wide discount at Target. However, AARP members can receive exclusive discounts at Target Optical for purchases of eyeglasses and contact lenses.
Do senior veterans get a discount at Target?
Yes, senior veterans and their families can receive a 10% discount on eligible purchases during certain promotional periods, such as around Veterans Day. To receive this, you must be a Target Circle member and verify your military status online.
Can I combine a Target Circle offer with my Target Circle Card discount?
Yes, the 5% Target Circle Card discount can be stacked with most Target Circle deals, allowing you to get an even larger total discount. This makes the card a powerful tool for maximizing savings.
How do I join the free Target Circle rewards program?
You can join the free Target Circle program by signing up on the Target website or through the Target app. You can use your phone number at checkout in-store or ensure you're logged into your account online for deals to apply.
Does Target offer free shipping for seniors?
Target offers free standard shipping on orders over $35 for all customers. For unlimited free two-day shipping on most items, consider signing up for a Target Circle Card.
Do any local Targets offer a senior discount?
While there is no national senior discount policy, some specific local stores may have occasionally offered discounts during certain events in the past, but this is rare and not a reliable source of savings. The best strategy is to rely on official, company-wide programs like Target Circle and the Target Circle Card.
