8 Surprising Ways to Save More Money at Target

Earlier this year, Target management made concrete plans to up the retailer's game. First and foremost is the goal to convince shoppers that Target delivers affordable joy. Target wants to appeal to value-conscious shoppers by introducing more items starting at $3, $5, $10, and $15. 

But that's not where it stops. Target is expanding drive-up returns, which allow customers to return new, unopened items from the comfort of their cars. The retailer also plans to open around 20 new stores to better reach new customers. In existing stores, expect to see plenty of remodeling and updates. In short, Target is doing everything within its power to make shopping more pleasant and more affordable.

While Target does its part to help you leave more money in the bank, here are some of the things you can do to cut the cost of a Target run.

1. Mark it on the calendar

Did you know that most Target stores mark down the prices in specific departments on certain days of the week? For example, if you're looking for sporting goods, you'll want to shop on Thursday when the prices are marked down.

2. Learn to read the clearance codes

• 15%: Look in the upper right-hand corner of the red clearance tag. If you see the number 15, that means it's marked down 15%
• 30%, 50%, 70%, and 90%: If, instead of a 15, you see a higher number, that means how much has been knocked off the original price. For example, if you're looking at an item that originally sold for $30 and see the number 70 in the right-hand corner of the tag, it should be on sale for $9 (70% off).
• Tags ending in $0.06 or $0.08: Seeing either of these numbers means that any inventory of the item that remains after this week will be marked down again during the next markdown cycle. Normally, items remain at the same price for two weeks.
• Tags ending in $0.04: When you see $0.04, you know that you're looking at the final clearance price. It will never drop any lower.

3. Take advantage of price-matching

Of course, it's good to peek at Target ads to get a sense of what's on sale, but keep an eye out for items you've already purchased. Let's say you buy a toy for $25. A few days later, you notice that one of Target's competitors has the same toy on sale for $15. If you purchase an item that goes on sale, either at Target or one of its competitors, within 14 days, Target will adjust the price. 

You'll need to bring your receipt and proof of the price you want to match. That proof can be a digital ad, the retailer's website pulled up on your smartphone, or the entire printed ad (Target will not accept photos of the ad or photocopies).  

Exclusions do apply, so take a moment to check Target's full price-matching policy before making a trip to the store.

4. Bring reusable bags

Target gives you a little pat on the back and a $0.05 discount for each reusable bag you bring along. It's not a fortune, but every bit helps. So remember to grab your reusable bags for your next Target run.

5. Stack those coupons

You're free to stack Target store coupons with Target Circle coupons and manufacturer coupons to squeeze every cent out of your couponing efforts. For example, if you're buying dish soap and have a Target store coupon that offers 30% off cleaning supplies, you can add it to a Target Circle coupon offering 10% off Dawn Dish Soap and a printable manufacturer coupon you found online.  

6. Take advantage of discount cards

Some websites offer discounted gift cards -- CardCash is one to check out. Card Cookie is another good one. If you're a regular Target shopper, take advantage of the savings by picking up cards when the price is right. Let's say you come across a card that's 5% off. That means you can buy a $100 gift card for $95. Added to all the other ways you can save money at Target, the final tally at the cash register may leave you with enough each week to invest a little more or save up for a vacation.

7. Ask about a rain check

If a product you want is out of stock, stop by customer service on your way out of the store to ask for a rain check. Depending on the state, you have between 30 and 45 days to take advantage of the price. According to the Target website, not every store offers rain checks, but it can't hurt to ask.

8. Squeeze the savings with apps

Apps like Ibotta, Fetch Reward, and Dosh offer cash back. Scroll through your favorite cash back apps to ensure you're not leaving any money on the table. 

Why not make a sport of it? Utilize every Target savings method you can find to see how much you save. Then, the next time you plan a Target run, try to save even more.