You can pay your Target Red Card bill through Target's website, the Target mobile app, by phone, or by mail
The Target Red Card is a store credit card issued by Synchrony Bank. When you carry a balance, you owe money to Synchrony, not to Target directly — though Target's payment systems let you send that money in. The fastest way is through Target.com or the Target app, where you can pay any amount at any time. You can also call Synchrony's customer service line, mail a check, or set up automatic payments so the bill pays itself each month.
The key difference from other bill pay methods is that Target's own website is the easiest entry point, even though Synchrony ultimately receives and processes your payment. This guide walks you through each method and explains what happens after you submit a payment.
Key Takeaways
- Payments made through Target.com, the Target app, or by calling Synchrony all reach your account within one to three business days.
- You can pay any amount — the minimum payment, the full balance, or anything in between — and there is no fee for paying online or by phone.
- Automatic payments remove the risk of missing a due date, though you can change or cancel them anytime through your Target account.
- Mailed payments take longer to process and should be sent at least 10 days before your due date to arrive on time.
- Your payment due date and current balance appear on your monthly statement and in your Target account under "Manage Your Card."
Paying online through Target.com or the Target app
This is the fastest and most direct method. Log into your Target account on Target.com or open the Target mobile app, then navigate to "Manage Your Card" or "Account" — the exact label varies slightly between the website and app. 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. Target accepts debit cards, bank accounts, and other Target Red Cards. After you submit, you will see a confirmation number on screen. Your payment posts to Synchrony's system within one business day, though it may take up to three business days to appear as a credit on your account. There is no charge for paying this way.
Paying by phone with Synchrony customer service
Call Synchrony's customer service number, which appears on the back of your Target Red Card and on your monthly statement. A representative will verify your identity, confirm your current balance, and process your payment over the phone. You can pay from a checking or savings account, or use a debit card.
Payments made by phone are processed the same day and typically show up in your account within one to three business days. There is no fee for this method. If you prefer not to speak to a representative, Synchrony also offers an automated phone payment system where you enter your information using your keypad, though the online method is usually faster.
Setting up automatic payments
Automatic payments remove the need to remember your due date. Log into your Target account, go to "Manage Your Card," and look for an option to set up autopay or recurring payments. You can choose to pay the minimum amount, the full statement balance, or a fixed dollar amount each month on a date you select.
Automatic payments process a few days before your due date, which gives you a buffer if there are any delays. You can change the payment amount or cancel autopay anytime through your Target account — there is no penalty for stopping it. If you set autopay to pay the full balance each month, you will avoid interest charges as long as you do not make new purchases after the payment processes.
Paying by mail
Write a check or money order payable to Synchrony Bank and include your Target Red Card account number on the check. Mail it to the address shown on your monthly statement under "Payment Address" — this address changes depending on where Synchrony is processing payments that month, so always use the address on your most recent bill.
Mail payments take 7 to 10 business days to arrive and process, so send your payment at least 10 days before your due date to avoid a late fee. Include only the check and your account number — do not send your card itself or other documents. Keep a copy of the check for your records.
What happens after you pay
Once Synchrony receives your payment, it credits your account within one to three business days. You will see the payment reflected in your Target account and on your next monthly statement. If you paid more than you owed, the extra amount becomes a credit balance that Synchrony will explore to your next purchase or statement.
If you paid less than the full balance, interest accrues on the remaining balance at the rate shown in your account agreement — this rate varies based on your creditworthiness and current market conditions. Paying at least the minimum amount by the due date keeps your account in good standing and prevents late fees, but paying the full balance is the only way to avoid interest.
Timing and due dates
Your payment due date appears on your monthly statement and in your Target account. Payments must arrive by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on the due date to be considered on time. If the due date falls on a weekend or holiday, Synchrony typically extends the important date to the next business day, though you should not rely on this — pay by the stated date.
Payments made online or by phone are fastest and safest because you get when ready confirmation. Mailed payments are the slowest and carry the most risk of arriving late, so use mail only if you cannot pay online or by phone. If you are concerned about making a payment on time, set up automatic payments instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my Target Red Card bill from a bank account that is not mine?
No. Synchrony requires that the bank account or debit card used for payment be registered in your name. If someone else wants to help you pay, they can give you money and you can pay from your own account, or they can contact Synchrony directly to discuss other options.
What if I miss my payment due date?
A late fee applies, usually between $25 and $35 depending on your account terms. Your interest rate may also increase. If you miss a payment, pay as soon as possible — the sooner you pay, the less additional interest will accrue. One late payment may also affect your credit score.
Do I have to pay the full balance, or can I pay just the minimum?
You can pay any amount between the minimum and the full balance. Paying only the minimum keeps your account current, but interest continues to accrue on the remaining balance. Paying the full balance stops interest from building up.
How do I know if my payment went through?
You will receive a confirmation number when ready after paying online or by phone. Check your Target account within one to three business days — your payment should appear there. You can also call Synchrony to confirm that your payment was received.
Can I change or cancel an automatic payment?
Yes. Log into your Target account, go to "Manage Your Card," and look for autopay settings. You can change the amount, change the date, or cancel autopay entirely. Changes take effect on your next scheduled payment date.