Gift cards are a great way to show someone you love how much you care. They are simple little gifts that don’t take a whole lot of effort but still remind a loved one you’re thinking of them. And let’s be honest, a Target gift card is really the gift that keeps on giving.
For many of us, Starbucks goes hand in hand with Target—most Target stores feature a Starbucks cafe front and center. What’s better than strolling through Target with a grande caramel frappuccino? What would be even better is if you could use that nifty Target gift card on your Starbucks trip.
The question is… Can you use a Target gift card at Starbucks?
As a general rule, you can use a Target gift card at a Starbucks shop inside a Target store. Not every Target Starbucks accepts gift cards as payment, but most do. However, you cannot use a Target gift card at an official Starbucks store. Target gift cards are also invalid on the Starbucks app.
Key Takeaways
- Some Starbucks stores allow you to use Target gift cards to make purchases.
- There are a few payment methods that can be used to make purchases at Starbucks.
- Starbucks gift cards can be used on purchases both in-store and on the mobile app.
Continue reading to learn more about using gift cards at Starbucks and other payment methods.
Target Gift Cards vs. Starbucks Gift Cards
Most stores offer some sort of gift card, right down to the infamous Dollar Tree. Target and Starbucks are no different. For the popular holiday gift card option or the sporadic thank-you note with a gift card, both are huge corporations with thousands of locations to use them at. So, how exactly do these gift cards work?
Target Gift Card
Target GiftCards are simple to purchase and redeem. There are two types of Target GiftCards. There is a physical form that can be purchased and redeemed both in person and online. Then there is the Target eGiftCard, which can be purchased online and redeemed using a code.
Purchasers of the GiftCards simply load the card with a chosen amount upon purchase. Most GiftCards can be “reloaded” at any Target store. Redeemers can use any or all loaded funds on both card types at any Target store or online.
Starbucks Gift Card
Starbucks gift cards work similarly and have both physical cards and electronic delivery options. Purchasers can load funds onto the card at any Starbucks or other place of purchase. Then redeemers can either use the funds in person at a Starbucks or on the app.
Can Target GiftCards be Used at Starbucks?
Since you can use Target GiftCards to purchase anything in a Target store, the next logical question seems to be: What about Starbucks shops located in Target stores? Then, of course, if you can, can you use a Target GiftCard at any Starbucks then?
The Exception To The Rule
As a general rule, Starbucks restaurants only accept Starbucks gift cards. This includes both the digital and physical versions of the gift cards. Both versions can be used to purchase merchandise and anything on the menu. They can also be used to make purchases from the Starbucks app.
However, because of the unique partnership between Target and Starbucks, they’ve made an exception to that general rule. Customers can use their Target GiftCards at almost any Starbucks located in a Target store. To be sure if your local Starbucks in Target allows this, call ahead to confirm.
Alternative Options For Using A Target GiftCard At Starbucks
While independent Starbucks will not allow you to use a Target GiftCard to make purchases, there are alternatives. Starbucks welcomes customers to use these options to make purchases both on the app and in person for anything in their stores.
Use a Starbucks Gift Card
Starbucks gift cards are great gifts for holidays, birthdays, and even just a simple thank-you. You can purchase Starbucks gift cards almost anywhere gift cards are sold. Places like Target, Walmart, Dollar General, and even gas stations will have them to be purchased. Gifters can load funds upon purchase.
Starbucks also offers electronic gift cards that allow you to share a code via email or text message. Redeemers can either print the code, or sometimes stores will use the code directly from your phone. The code can be entered into the Starbucks mobile app to make purchases, as well.
Starbucks Rewards Visa Card
This is a terrific option for people who rarely go a day without running to Starbucks. The Starbucks Rewards Visa Card rewards members points for every purchase they make at Starbucks. The points can later be used for Starbucks purchases.
With an annual fee, this rewards card is a logical choice for any Starbucks member. However, this option may not be the logical choice for customers who drop by Starbucks for an occasional beverage or a seasonal special.
Credit/Debit Card Options
Like with most stores, Starbucks also has the option to pay via a credit/debit card. Customers can use their credit/debit cards to make purchases both in-store and on the Starbucks mobile app. Cash is, of course, always an option for in-store purchases.
Starbucks also has the added benefit of allowing customers to pay with multiple payment methods for a single purchase. This means if you’re running short on one or the other, you can cover the difference with another payment option. Way to go, Starbucks!
Conclusion
So, the question was: Can you use a Target GiftCard at Starbucks? Unfortunately, the answer is not black and white. The location of the Starbucks store and local policies really come into play with this question.
Truthfully, your best option is to call ahead and find out before wasting your time. Or simply use another payment option. Either way, there is always a way to get your Starbucks order—enjoy!
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