Target will no longer accept checks at checkout

Target has confirmed to multiple media outlets that it will no longer accept checks as payment at checkout, becoming the latest retailer to take this step.

“Target is committed to creating a simple and convenient payment experience, and that includes providing our guests with multiple ways to pay, including our new Target Circle cards, cash, digital wallets, SNAP/EBT, buy now, pay later services, and credit and debit cards,” Target spokesman Brian Harper-Tibaldo told the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

“Due to extremely low volumes, we will no longer be accepting personal checks starting July 15. We have taken several steps to notify customers in advance to facilitate a simple and efficient payment experience.”

Target will stop accepting checks at the register on July 15, but will continue to accept checks for bill payments.

Target cites a Federal Reserve report that shows a dramatic decline in check payments. While checks accounted for nearly 50% of noncash payments in 2003, check writing accounted for only 15% by 2012. Younger consumers, in particular, are using digital payment methods other than check writing.

Previously, Aldi and Whole Foods stopped accepting checks at checkout due to complaints that paying by check slowed down the checkout process.