You can change the linked checking account through the Target app, Target.com, or by calling Target's card services line
Target debit cards are tied to a specific checking account when you first set them up. If you've switched banks, opened a new account, or need to link a different account for any reason, you can update that connection without closing the card itself. The process takes a few minutes and can be done online or by phone.
The fastest route is through the Target app or Target.com if you have your login information handy. If you don't have online access to your account or run into trouble, Target's customer service team can walk you through it over the phone. Either way, you'll need your new checking account number and routing number ready before you start.
Key Takeaways
- Log into your Target account on the app or website, go to your payment methods, and select the debit card to edit the linked checking account.
- You will need your new checking account number and routing number, which you can find on a blank check or by logging into your bank's website.
- Changes usually take effect within one business day, though some transactions may still process to the old account if they were already in progress.
- If you can't access your Target account online, call Target's card services line at the number on the back of your card to request the change by phone.
Changing your account through the Target app
Open the Target app and log in with your username and password. Tap the account icon in the bottom right corner, then select "Payments" or "Payment Methods" depending on your app version. You should see your debit card listed there.
Tap on the debit card to open its details. Look for an option to edit or manage the card. Select the field that shows your linked checking account and enter your new account number and routing number. Double-check both numbers before saving—a single digit wrong will cause transactions to fail.
After you save, Target will confirm the change on screen. The new account should be active within one business day. If you have pending transactions that were already sent to your old account, they may still process there, so don't close that account immediately.
Changing your account on Target.com
Go to Target.com and sign in to your account. Click on your profile icon in the top right corner and select "Account" or "My Account." Look for a section labeled "Payment Methods," "Payments," or "Cards."
Find your Target debit card in the list and click "Edit" or the pencil icon next to it. You'll see a field for your linked checking account. Enter your new account number and routing number, then save the changes. Target will send you a confirmation email once the update is complete.
The change typically takes effect within one business day. If you're changing accounts because you're switching banks, make sure your new account is already open and active before you update it in Target's system.
Finding your new account number and routing number
Your checking account number appears on the bottom left of any blank check from that account, followed by your bank's routing number. If you don't have checks, log into your bank's website or mobile app—both numbers are usually listed in the account details or settings section.
Some banks also print this information on statements or deposit slips. If you can't find it online, call your bank's customer service line and ask for both numbers. Have your account open and ready to verify your identity before you call.
Changing your account by phone
If you can't log into your Target account or prefer to make the change over the phone, call the number on the back of your Target debit card. You'll reach Target's card services team, which handles account changes and other card issues.
Have your new checking account number and routing number ready when you call. The representative will verify your identity by asking for your name, card number, and possibly other details. Once verified, they can update your linked account in the system right away.
Phone changes usually take effect the same day or within one business day. Ask the representative to confirm the new account number in the system before you hang up, so you know the change went through correctly.
What happens to transactions during the change
Transactions that have already been sent to your old account will continue to process there, even after you update your linked account in Target's system. This is why you should not close your old checking account immediately after making the change.
Wait at least one to two weeks after updating your account to make sure all pending transactions have cleared. Once you're confident everything has processed, you can close the old account if you want to. If a transaction does post to the old account and you need it moved, contact your bank to see if they can help redirect it.
Troubleshooting if the change doesn't go through
If you see an error message when trying to save your new account number, double-check that you've entered it correctly. A single wrong digit will cause the system to reject it. Make sure there are no extra spaces or characters before or after the numbers.
If the numbers are correct but the system still won't accept them, your new bank account may not be fully activated yet. Wait a day or two after opening the account, then try again. If the problem persists, call Target's card services line or contact your bank to confirm the account number and routing number are correct.
If you've updated your account online but transactions are still going to your old account after several business days, call Target's customer service to verify the change was saved. Sometimes the system requires a manual confirmation or there may be a delay in the update reaching all of Target's processing systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to close my Target debit card to change the checking account?
No. You can change the linked checking account without closing the card. The card itself stays active—only the account it pulls money from changes. This means you keep the same card number and can continue using it right away.
How long does it take for the new account to be active?
Most changes take effect within one business day. In some cases it may be the same day, especially if you make the change early in the morning. However, transactions already in progress may still go to your old account, so don't close it immediately.
What if I enter the wrong account number?
If you realize the mistake before making a purchase, log back in and correct it right away. If you've already made a purchase with the wrong account number, contact Target's customer service to report the error. They may be able to help redirect the transaction or issue a refund.
Can I link multiple checking accounts to one Target debit card?
No. A Target debit card can only be linked to one checking account at a time. If you need to switch between accounts, you'll have to update the linked account each time, which takes a few minutes through the app or website.
What if my new bank account isn't showing up as an option?
Make sure your new account is fully activated and has been open for at least one business day. Some banks take 24 hours to fully activate new accounts. If it's been longer than that and the account still won't appear, try entering the account number manually instead of selecting it from a list.