The summer shopping season is upon us, with major sales from multiple retailers revolving around Prime Day, including Target's Circle Deal Days. That's great, but what if you have an issue with your Target order? It's not easy, but here is the best way I found to get a real customer service representative from Target on the phone.

The best phone number for Target's customer service department

If you Google Target's customer service number, the first number you'll see at the top of the search result is 1-800-440-0680. However, it's hard or even impossible to reach a real person using that number. In my experience, if you call 1-800-591-3869, you can eventually reach a customer service agent.

If Target recognizes your phone number

The pre-recorded message will automatically pull up your last order from Target and ask if you need help with it. Regardless of why you're calling, press 1 to confirm you need do need help. You'll be given additional options to narrow down the reason for your call, but if you don't select an option, Target will automatically connect you with a live agent on the phone who can help you with anything related to your account.

If Target doesn't recognize your phone number

If your phone number isn't automatically linked to your account, you might be asked to press 1 to either get some kind of promotion or enter your phone number. If you get the promotion message, ignore it and eventually a human will answer. If you're asked to enter your number, do it. Once you do, Target will connect you with someone who will verify your information and send you an email verification. Once you finish that, that person will be able to help you with your account or order questions.

Unlike Amazon, there is no call-back service provided by Target.