TARGET customers are shocked to learn the retailer is planning to ditch paper check payments.
The adjustment to payment methods will take effect after the retailer’s annual Target Circle Week sale, which begins July 7.
In a move that reflects changing consumer preferences, Target, one of America’s largest retailers, announced that it will no longer accept personal checks as a form of payment starting next month.
Citing “extremely low volumes” of check transactions, the company aims to streamline its checkout process to increase convenience for shoppers.
“Target is committed to creating an easy and convenient checkout experience, and that includes providing our guests with numerous ways to pay,” said Target spokesperson Brian Harper-Tibaldo in an email to Star Tribune.
“Due to extremely low volumes, we will no longer accept personal checks starting July 15,” Harper-Tibaldo said.
“We have taken several steps to notify guests in advance to facilitate an easy and efficient checkout experience.”
This decision comes amid a significant decline in the use of personal checks across the country.
A 2023 study revealed that 46% of Americans did not write a single check in the previous year, for GoBanking Fees.
The announcement generated mixed reactions from consumers, as reflected in comments on social media.
“What a shame, I still use checks sometimes,” one user lamented on Facebook, highlighting the sentiment of those who still rely on checks for specific transactions.
On the other hand, another commenter questioned the need for checks in today’s digital age, suggesting“Why? Just use your debit or credit card or cash. Checks are obsolete.”
Interestingly, some individuals pointed to practical reasons for keeping checks, albeit for limited use.
“The only reason I still have checks is because check or money order is the only payment my landlord will accept,” observed a user frustrated with limited payment options.
With regard to security, comments reflected concerns regarding fraud and the practicality of controls.
“Companies use checks to track documents. It’s harder to hack a check. With checks, it’s easier to keep books too,” observed a user.
NEW POLICY
PAYMENT METHODS ACCEPTED AT TARGET
Target has revealed that it will no longer accept personal checks as valid payment.
However, the retailer has assured customers that alternative payment methods including:
- Money
- Credit
- Debit card
- Target Circle Cards
- Digital wallets
- SNAP/EBT
- Pay for services later
This check payment method announcement comes after a new self-checkout policy was implemented by the retailer.
Target recently announced that it would convert many of its stores’ self-checkout lanes to allow purchases of up to 10 items only.
After a trial period, Target implemented this new policy at 2,000 locations on March 14, The US Sun reported.
The chain noted that these limited checkouts had a positive impact on shoppers during the test.
“The result: self-checkout was twice as fast in our pilot stores,” the chain said in a statement. declaration.
Target also added that it would open more traditional checkout aisles to help accommodate the change.
Meanwhile, a ShopRite customer revealed that she and her son were banned from using the self-checkout line for allegedly exceeding the item limit.
And Walmart shoppers continue to express frustration as the retailer steps up efforts to crack down on theft.
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
