You can change the checking account your Redcard is attached to, but the process depends on whether you want to keep the same card or get a new one
If you have a Redcard (Target's debit card) and need to switch it to a different checking account, you have two main paths. The simpler route is to update your account information with Target directly if you're staying with the same card but moving to a new bank. The more common route is to request a new Redcard tied to your new checking account, which means you'll get a physical card in the mail with a new card number.
Target does not let you simply reassign an existing Redcard to a completely different bank account. The card itself is linked to a specific account at a specific financial institution. If you switch banks, you'll need a new card. If you're moving accounts within the same bank (like from a regular checking to a high-yield checking), you may be able to update the routing and account numbers without getting a new card — but this varies by bank and by Target's systems.
Key Takeaways
- Redcards cannot be reassigned to a different bank; you must request a new card if you switch banks.
- You can update your account information through the Target app or website, or by calling Target's card services line.
- A new Redcard typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days after you request it.
- Your old card will stop working once the new one is activated, so plan the timing to avoid missed payments or declined transactions.
- If you have an active payment plan or recurring charges, update those payment methods before your old card expires.
How to request a new Redcard for your new checking account
Start by logging into your Target account through the Target app or Target.com. Go to your account settings, then find the card management or payment methods section. Look for an option to add or replace your Redcard. You'll need your new checking account's routing number and account number from your new bank.
Target will ask you to confirm your identity and may ask for your Social Security number to verify the new account. Once you submit the request, Target will order a new physical card. You can also call Target's Redcard customer service line (the number is on the back of your current card or on your Target account page) and request a replacement card over the phone. A representative can walk you through the process and answer questions about timing.
The new card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. You'll receive a separate notification when it's ready to activate. Do not use the card until you receive it and activate it through the app or website — using it before activation can cause declines or fraud blocks.
What happens to your old Redcard
Your old Redcard will stop working automatically once you activate the new one. Target disables the old card number in their system to prevent fraud and duplicate charges. If you have the old card in your wallet, you can cut it up or throw it away — there's no need to return it to Target.
However, if you have any recurring charges set to your old Redcard (like a subscription, automatic bill payment, or a store loyalty program), those will fail once the old card is deactivated. Before you activate your new card, log into any services that charge your Redcard and update the payment method. This includes Target Circle charges, online subscriptions, or any other recurring payments.
Updating your account within the same bank
If you're switching to a different checking account at the same bank (for example, moving from a standard checking to a rewards checking account), you may not need a new Redcard. Some banks allow Target to update your routing and account numbers without issuing a new card.
Contact your bank first to confirm they support this. Then log into your Target account and update your payment method with the new account number. Target's system will verify the new account. If the update goes through without a request for a new card, you're done — your existing Redcard will now pull from your new account.
If Target requires a new card even though you're staying with the same bank, follow the process described above. This is less common, but it does happen depending on the bank and the type of account change.
Timing and what to watch for
Plan your card switch for a time when you don't have urgent Target purchases coming up. The 7 to 10 business day window means you could be without a working Redcard for up to two weeks. If you use your Redcard for weekly grocery shopping or regular purchases, have a backup payment method ready.
Once your new card arrives, activate it immediately through the Target app. You'll see a prompt to activate when you log in, or you can go to your card settings and select the new card. Activation is instant and happens in the app — you don't need to call anyone or wait for anything else.
After activation, test the new card with a small purchase to make sure it works before relying on it for larger transactions. Some cardholders report occasional delays in the new card being fully active in Target's payment system, so a test transaction catches any issues early.
If your new card doesn't arrive or doesn't work
If your new Redcard doesn't arrive within 10 business days, contact Target's Redcard customer service. Have your account number and the date you requested the card ready. They can check the status of your order and resend it if needed.
If your new card arrives but declines when you try to use it, do not assume it's a problem with your checking account. First, make sure you've activated it through the Target app — an unactivated card will always decline. Second, confirm that your new checking account has funds and is in good standing with your bank. Third, try the card at a different Target location or online to rule out a register or website issue.
If the card still doesn't work after activation and your account is fine, call Target's Redcard line again. They can check whether the card is fully active in their system and troubleshoot from there. In rare cases, Target will cancel the card and send a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I lose my Target Circle rewards or account history when I get a new Redcard?
No. Your Target account, rewards balance, and purchase history stay the same. The new card is just a new payment method linked to the same account. Your Circle membership and any accumulated rewards or discounts carry over automatically.
Can I keep my old Redcard active while I wait for the new one?
Yes, until you activate the new card. Your old card will continue to work normally. Once you activate the new card, the old one stops working. This is why you should wait to activate the new card until it arrives and you're ready to switch.
What if I don't want a Redcard anymore and just want to use a regular debit card?
You can remove your Redcard from your Target account and use any other debit card or credit card instead. Go to your payment methods in your Target account and delete the Redcard. You'll lose the Redcard's discount (usually 5% off purchases), but you can still shop at Target with any other payment method.
Will changing my Redcard affect my Target credit line or credit score?
No. A Redcard debit card is not a credit product, so changing it has no impact on credit. If you have a Target credit card (the red card with a credit line), that's a separate product and is not affected by changes to your debit Redcard.
How long does it take for my new Redcard to show up in my Target app?
The new card usually appears in your app within a day or two of you requesting it, but it won't be active until the physical card arrives and you activate it. You'll see it listed as "pending" or "inactive" until then. Once the card arrives in the mail, you'll get a notification and can activate it immediately through the app.