How to Shop at Target

Shopping like a pro at Target is more than just scooping clearance finds. These are the terms you need to become familiar with when you shop at Target:

• Target Coupon: this is a store coupon that can be stacked with manufacturer coupons for added savings. Target printable coupons are usually available on the Target website and they are also often included in the Sunday Newspaper inserts.

• Target Mobile Coupon: You can now register your cell phone to receive weekly text messages that contain special offers.

• Temporary Price Cut: It’s a temporary sale price offered on a particular item.

• Target Gift Card Promotion: Target often runs gift card promotions. These promotions usually require that you buy a particular item (or number of items) and when you do so, you will receive a Target gift card at the end of your checkout.

How to get free or really cheap stuff at Target

1) The first way to get free stuff at Target is by combining Target Gift Card promotions with manufacturer and Target store coupons. For example: Target is offering a $5 gift card when you buy one Scrubbing Bubbles Shower Cleaning Kit that's on sale for $12. There is also a manufacturer coupon available for $7 off one Scrubbing Bubbles kit. After you deduct the coupon and the value of the Target gift card you end up getting the Scrubbing Bubbles kit for free (not an actual current deal).

2) The second way to get free stuff at Target is by stacking a Target store coupon and manufacturer coupon on the same item.

3) The last way to get free stuff at Target is by combining a temporary price cut or an every day price at Target with a manufacturer coupon.

Things to Remember When Shopping at Target

1) The secret to minimizing your out of pocket expense is by breaking your transactions up and using Target Gift cards that you have received.  For example, if there was a buy 4 Kelloggs Cereals and receive a $5 Target Card promotion, you would buy those 4 boxes of cereal in your first transaction, and then use the $5 Target card to help pay for your second transaction...and so on.

2) There is a proper way to hand your coupons to the cashier when shopping at Target: Always hand your manufacturer coupons first and then your Target coupons.

3) Before you leave the store make sure to check your receipt to verify that coupon discounts you expected were applied. Also, make sure to verify that all of the Target Gift cards you expected were awarded. It is easier to correct errors then than later.

Target FAQ

My cashier wouldn’t let me combine a Target coupon with a manufacturer coupon, what can I do?
Target has an official Coupon Policy that clearly states that you can combine one Target coupon and one manufacturer coupon on the same item. Make sure to print this Target Coupon Policy and bring with you to the store next time.

I had a horrible shopping experience. What do I do?

Your best course of actions is to call Target Guest relations at (800-440-0680) and calmly explain what happened.

Does Target Price Match competitor’s Prices?

Yes, Target has started matching competitor’s prices. Click here to read and print this Price Match Policy or Low Price Guarantee.

Does Target have a particular markdown schedule?

Yes, according to previous Target employees, this is the unofficial markdown schedule:
Monday – Electronics, Kids, Clothing, and Stationary (Cards, GiftWrap, etc.)
Tuesday – Domestics, Women’s Clothing, Pets and Market (food items)
Wednesday – Men’s Clothing, Toys, Health and Beauty, Lawn & Garden items
Thursday – House Wares, Lingerie, Shoes, Sporting Goods, Movies, Music, Books, Decor and Luggage
Friday – Auto, Cosmetics, Hardware, & Jewelry.
Holiday Clearance Schedule
50% off day after holiday for three days
75% off fourth day after holiday for three days
90% off seventh day after holiday for 1-2 days.

This article adapted from Common Sense with Money