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I always seem to end up at Target, so my family has learned that a Target gift card is usually a safe holiday gift for me.
Starbucks inside Target is what made me wonder whether the same card would work there too.
So I asked the obvious question: can I use a Target gift card at Starbucks inside Target?
Here’s what I found and the easiest way I’ve used it.
Key takeaways
Do Starbucks in Target accept Target gift cards?
Yes, Starbucks in Target stores accept Target gift cards. The Starbucks must be inside Target for this to be applicable. Sharing a parking lot doesn’t count.
The reason it works is fairly simple. The Starbucks locations inside Target stores are either owned by Target or run as a shared setup with Starbucks.
Standalone Starbucks locations are official Starbucks stores, so Target gift cards do not apply there.
What can I buy at Starbucks with a Target gift card?
At Starbucks within Target stores, you can buy my favorite handcrafted coffee, food, coffee beans, and pretty much anything else the Starbucks has for purchase.
I usually check the store locator first, because not every Target has a Starbucks inside.
Starbucks stores in Target (Overview)
Target has over 1,900 stores in the United States, and many of them include a Starbucks.
I’ve also seen Starbucks Drive-Up services roll out in some Target stores in California, Texas, Washington, and other places.
With this Drive Up service, I can now do a curbside order pickup and get my Starbucks at the same time.
How to get a Target gift card to use at Starbucks?
There are a few ways to get a Target gift card ready for Starbucks, and the process is pretty straightforward.
In-store
One of the easiest ways to get your Target gift card is by just buying it at a Target store.
Once the card is purchased, I just present it at the in-store Starbucks register and pay there.
Online
Another option is to buy a Target gift card through the Target website. I usually go to the Gift Cards section at the top of the page.
Select the value of the gift card, and check out. Once checking out, a confirmation email with the Target gift card number will be sent.
Keep that number handy.
Through the app
I usually find the Target app easiest for buying a card.
To purchase a physical one, simply select the amount, add the gift card to your cart and checkout. The gift card will then be sent to the designated address.
For a digital gift card, I choose the amount, check out, and the card gets sent by email.
Other stores
Target gift cards can also be bought from a few other retailers.
How to use a Target gift card at Starbucks?
To use a physical Target gift card at Starbucks, present them the Target gift card when checking out.
If you buy a physical card, the cashier activates it by scanning the barcode.
Digital Target gift cards take a couple more steps, and this is the part that feels less instant the first time you do it.
First, activate the digital Target gift card before trying to use it.
Then add the gift card from your Target account to your wallet.
Once you’re at the Starbucks counter, have the barista scan the Target gift card barcode during payment.
A few other things are worth keeping in mind.
FAQs
Can you use Target gift cards on the Starbucks app?
No, you cannot use a Target gift card on the Starbucks app. It has to be used at a Starbucks location inside Target.
What can you not buy with a Target gift card?
You also cannot buy prepaid cards or specialty gift cards with a Target gift card.
Why does my Target gift card say invalid?
If your Target gift card shows as invalid or gives an invalid code message, the problem is usually with the details or access code. If it still does not work, Target support is the next stop.
Do you have to activate the Target gift cards?
Yes, the gift card has to be activated. Digital cards can usually be activated whenever you’re ready, while physical Target gift cards are activated at checkout.
Can you use a Target Red Card at Starbucks?
A Target Red Card can get you 5% off, and Target sometimes runs extra cardholder discounts between 10% and 20%. Those offers can change, so I would check the current terms.
Conclusion
I’m not pretending I don’t have plenty of other things I could spend a Target gift card on, but sending some of that value toward Starbucks feels like a pretty good trade to me.
Knowing I can use a Target gift card this way makes the whole thing feel more practical when I’m already in the store.
If someone asks what gift I want, a Target gift card is still an easy answer.
