‘It’s terrible,’ Target shoppers rage as chain axes ‘obsolete’ payment method – and customers say old way was safer

TARGET customers are shocked to learn that the retailer is planning to get rid of paper check payments.

The adjustment in payment methods will take effect after the retailer's annual Target Circle Week sale starting on July 7.

In a move reflecting changing consumer preferences, Target, one of America's largest retailers, has announced 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 enhance 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 spokesman Brian Harper-Tibaldo in an email to the Star Tribune.

"Due to extremely low volumes, we'll no longer accept personal checks starting July 15," Harper-Tibaldo said.

"We have taken several measures to notify guests in advance to aid an easy and efficient checkout experience."

This decision comes amidst a significant decline in personal check usage nationwide.

A 2023 study revealed that 46% of Americans did not write a single check the previous year, per GoBankingRates.

The announcement has garnered mixed reactions from consumers, as reflected in social media comments.

"That sucks I still use checks sometimes," one user lamented on Facebook, highlighting the sentiment of those who still rely on checks for specific transactions.

Conversely, another commenter questioned the necessity of checks in today's digital age, suggesting, "Why? Just use your debit card or credit or well cash. Checks are obsolete."

Interestingly, some individuals pointed out practical reasons for maintaining 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," noted one user frustrated by limited payment options.

On the security front, comments reflected concerns over fraud and the practicality of checks.

"Businesses use checks for a paper trail. Harder to hack a check. With checks easier to keep the books too," observed a user.

NEW POLICY

This check payment method announcement comes after a new self-checkout policy has been put into play 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 U.S. Sun reported.

The chain noted that these limited checkouts had a positive impact on shoppers during the trial.

“The result: Self-checkout was twice as fast at our pilot stores," the chain said in a statement.

Target also added that it would open more traditional cashier lanes to help accommodate the switch.

Meanwhile, a ShopRite customer revealed that she and her son were prohibited from using the self-checkout line due to allegedly exceeding the item limit.

And Walmart shoppers continue to express frustration as the retailer intensifies efforts to crack down on theft.