Target's New Loyalty Program Means More Ways for Moms to Save

Cute pregnancy stuff, baby supplies, kids’ clothing, beauty products, furniture—the list of items available at Target is endless. Which is maybe why the list of items that wind up in our Target shopping carts is also endless. Good news, Target fans: You can now get even more for your money, thanks to the retailer’s new loyalty program, rolling out nation-wide next month.

The program, called Target Circle, has been tested in several cities over the past 18 months and will officially be available starting October 6. It’s completely separate from the existing REDcard program, but existing REDcard owners will be signed up automatically, along with anyone who has a Target.com or Cartwheel account already. (Nice.)

Here’s the really exciting part: Target Circle customers will earn 1 percent toward new purchases (to be redeemed at a later time) and will get early access to special sales throughout the year, plus personalized deals and perks. You’ll also get a little birthday present each year of 5 percent off on your buys. Not only that, the new program also supports non-profits, and you get to help decide which ones: Target Circle members can vote on which local organizations out of about 800 should receive donations.

Rick Gomez, EVP and chief marketing and digital officer at Target, explained the thinking behind the new program. “We worked directly with guests to develop Target Circle,” he said in a statement. “The program includes the benefits and perks they told us were most important to them, from earning on every trip to having the opportunity to help Target make a positive impact in their local communities.”

Here are some more details:

• REDcard owners won’t earn back the 1 percent towards future purchases (they’re already getting 5 percent off on every purchase). If they use a store gift card they’ll get it, though, and here’s a little tip: In early December, you can usually buy gift cards at a 10 percent discount.

• The Cartwheel savings app will be automatically integrated into Target Circle.

• Yes, the 1 percent will count in the new Disney stores opening up inside Targets across the country. Huzzah!

• Anyone who doesn’t already have a Target account can sign up starting October 6 by going online or giving your phone number to a cashier at your local store.

• Once you’re signed up, scan the Wallet barcode in the Target app or use your phone number at checkout to start building up your rewards, or just shop online.

• There are a few things you can’t redeem your 1 percent for, including adult beverages, dairy products, prescriptions, same day delivery items and gift cards. But baby supplies? Absolutely!

Need some ideas for what to spend you new rewards on? If you’re a mom-to-be, here are 20 baby items you need to pick up on your next pre-baby Target run. And if you want some free baby stuff from Target (who doesn’t?), check out our insider tip on how to make that happen.