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Contactless payments have surged in popularity — over 500 million people worldwide use Apple Pay, per ElectroIQ. If you're a Target shopper wondering whether you can tap and pay with your iPhone or Apple Watch, the answer is a clear yes. Whether you're shopping in-store or online, Target fully supports Apple Pay alongside other digital wallets. If you're already using smart shopping tools to save money, adding Apple Pay to your checkout routine is a natural next step. Here's everything you need to know.
Quick Answer
Yes, Target accepts Apple Pay both in-store and online. In-store, use your iPhone or Apple Watch at any NFC-enabled checkout terminal. Online, select Apple Pay at checkout through Target's website or app. Target also accepts other digital wallets, making contactless payment easy across all shopping methods.
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Summary Table
| Item Name | Price Range | Best For | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Does Target Accept Apple Pay? | Free to use | Shoppers confirming payment compatibility | Visit Site |
| In-Store Usage | Free to use | Quick, contactless checkout at any Target register | Visit Site |
| Online Usage | Free to use | Fast checkout on Target.com or the Target app | Visit Site |
| Supported Devices | Free to use | iPhone and Apple Watch users paying at Target | See details |
| Additional Options | Free to use | Shoppers who prefer Google Pay, Samsung Pay, or RedCard | See details |
| Confirmation Tip | Free to use | First-time contactless payers at Target | See details |
Target & Apple Pay: 6 Things to Know [2026 Update]
Below you'll find detailed information about each option, including what makes them unique and their key benefits.
1. Does Target Accept Apple Pay?
Yes, Target does accept Apple Pay as a valid payment method both in stores and through its app. Target added support for contactless payments, including Apple Pay, making it one of the major retailers that lets shoppers tap to pay using their iPhone or Apple Watch at checkout. This is especially useful for customers who prefer leaving their physical wallet at home.
Quick facts:
- Apple Pay accepted in-store at all Target locations nationwide
- Also available via the Target app for mobile purchases
- Works at self-checkout and staffed registers
2. In-Store Usage
Using Apple Pay at a physical Target store is straightforward — simply hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the contactless payment terminal at checkout. Most Target registers are equipped with NFC-enabled readers that detect Apple Pay instantly, so transactions typically complete in seconds without swiping a card or entering a PIN.
What to know:
- Double-click your iPhone side button or raise your Apple Watch to activate Wallet
- Works at both staffed lanes and self-checkout kiosks
- You can still apply your Target Circle discount before paying
3. Online Usage
Target also supports Apple Pay through its mobile app, letting shoppers complete purchases without manually entering card details. When checking out via the Target app, select Apple Pay as your payment method and authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode — no need to type in billing or shipping information each time.
Key details:
- Available through the Target app on iPhone and iPad
- Target's desktop website does not currently support Apple Pay — app only
- Saved shipping addresses from your Apple Wallet auto-populate at checkout
4. Supported Devices
Knowing which devices support Apple Pay helps you prepare before heading to Target's checkout lane. Apple Pay works on iPhone 6 and later models, Apple Watch Series 1 and newer, and compatible iPad and Mac devices. If your device meets these requirements, you're ready to tap and pay at any Target register that accepts contactless payments.
Compatible devices at a glance:
- iPhone 6 and later (Face ID or Touch ID required)
- Apple Watch Series 1 and newer (for wrist-tap payments)
- iPad Pro, Air, and Mini with Touch ID or Face ID
5. Additional Options
Beyond Apple Pay, Target accepts several other contactless and digital payment methods at checkout, giving shoppers flexibility if their device isn't compatible. Google Pay and Samsung Pay work at the same NFC-enabled terminals, while Target's own Circle 360 program and Target RedCard offer additional savings stacked on top of any contactless payment. According to ElectroIQ, contactless payments now account for a significant share of in-store transactions nationwide.
Other accepted payment methods:
- Google Pay and Samsung Pay (same NFC terminals)
- Target RedCard (debit or credit) for 5% discount
- Traditional credit, debit, and gift cards
6. Confirmation Tip
Before relying on Apple Pay for your next Target run, a quick confirmation step can save you frustration at the register. Payment terminal availability can vary slightly by store location or after equipment updates, so it's worth checking Target's store locator or calling your local store directly to verify NFC terminal availability. You can also look for the universal contactless payment symbol — four curved lines — displayed on the checkout terminal as a reliable visual cue that tap-to-pay is active.
Quick ways to confirm:
- Look for the contactless symbol on the payment terminal
- Use Target's website or app store locator for location details
Final Words
Yes, Target accepts Apple Pay in-store, online, and through its app — making checkout faster than ever. Whether you prefer tap-to-pay, the Target Circle Card, or apps that help you save, picking the right method can stretch your budget further. Which option will you use on your next Target run?