Looking for stores that offer layaway programs to help manage your holiday shopping or big purchases? Layaway can be an excellent alternative to credit cards, allowing you to reserve items and pay for them over time without accruing interest.
19 Best Stores with Layaway Programs in 2024: A Complete Guide
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best stores offering layaway programs, their policies, and fees.
What is Layaway?
Layaway is a purchasing method where retailers hold items for customers while they make incremental payments toward the full purchase price. Unlike credit cards or buy now, pay later services, layaway typically doesn't involve credit checks or interest charges. The store holds the item in their inventory until you complete all payments.
While some major retailers have discontinued their traditional layaway programs, many stores still offer this valuable service, especially during the holiday season. Some have also partnered with services like Affirm or Klarna as modern alternatives.
1. Walmart (Seasonal)
Walmart offers layaway during the holiday season (typically September through mid-December). The program requires a $10 or 10% down payment (whichever is greater), with a minimum purchase of $50. Payments can be made at any time during the layaway period, with final payment due December 14th. There's a $10 initiation fee in most states.
2. Burlington
Burlington offers a year-round layaway program with a 20% down payment requirement. Items are held for 30 days, and you'll need to make payments every 14 days. The service fee is $5, and cancellation fee is $10. Minimum purchase required is $50.
3. Army & Navy
Army & Navy stores provide a 30-day layaway program with a 20% down payment. The minimum purchase is $30, and there's a $5 service fee. Payments must be made bi-weekly, and items will be held for up to 30 days.
4. Hallmark Gold Crown Stores
Select Hallmark stores offer 30-day layaway with a 20% down payment. There's typically a $5 service fee, and the minimum purchase varies by location. Perfect for securing holiday ornaments and collectibles.
5. K-Mart
Available 8-week and 12-week contracts with 10% down payment or $10, whichever is greater. $5 service fee and $10 cancellation fee apply. Minimum purchase of $50 required.
6. Marshall's (Select Stores)
Some Marshall's locations offer 30-day layaway programs. Requires 20% down payment and bi-weekly payments. $5 service fee applies. Check with your local store for availability.
7. Big Lots
Progressive leasing program available in select stores. 90-day payment option with $49 initial payment. Available for purchases over $100. No traditional layaway, but similar payment structure.
8. Sears
8-week and 12-week contracts available. $10 or 10% down payment required. $5 service fee and $10 cancellation fee. Available for purchases over $50.
9. GameStop
Offers layaway for gaming consoles and higher-priced items. 25% down payment required. 30-day hold period with complete payment required before pickup. $5 service fee applies.
10. The Bay (Hudson's Bay)
60-day layaway available for most items. 20% down payment required. Bi-weekly payments necessary. $5 service fee and minimum purchase of $100.
11. Army & Air Force Exchange Service
Available to military personnel and families. 15% down payment required. 30-day to 60-day contracts available. $3 service fee for items under $300, $5 for items over $300.
12. Local Car Dealerships
Many local car dealerships offer vehicle layaway programs. Typical terms include 10-25% down payment, 3-6 month hold period. Terms vary by dealer and vehicle price.
13. Local Jewelry Stores
Most independent jewelers offer 3-12 month layaway programs. Usually requires 20-25% down payment. Perfect for engagement rings and fine jewelry purchases.
14. Rent-A-Center
90-day payment option available. Initial payment required. Available for furniture, electronics, and appliances over $150.
15. Ashley HomeStore
60-day layaway program for furniture and home decor. 30% down payment required. Bi-weekly payments necessary. $50 minimum purchase required.
16. Gordmans
30-day layaway program available. 20% down payment required. $5 service fee. Bi-weekly payments required. Minimum purchase of $50.
17. Academy Sports + Outdoors
30-day layaway for most items. 20% down payment required. $5 service fee. Available year-round for sporting goods and outdoor equipment.
18. Factory Direct
90-day layaway available. 10% down payment required. Monthly payments accepted. Available for electronics and home appliances.
19. Hobby Lobby
60-day layaway program for select items. 20% down payment required. $5 service fee. Perfect for holiday decorations and craft supplies.
Final Words
Layaway programs can be an excellent tool for budgeting and avoiding credit card debt, especially for holiday shopping or large purchases. Before committing to any layaway program, be sure to read the fine print regarding fees, payment schedules, and cancellation policies. If you're looking for alternatives, consider checking out our guides on buy now, pay later apps or cashback credit cards for other payment options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Layaway Programs
What is a layaway program?
A layaway program is a purchasing method where a store holds an item for you while you make payments over time. Once you've paid the full amount, you can take the item home. Unlike credit cards, layaway doesn't charge interest, though there may be service fees.
What fees are typically associated with layaway?
Common layaway fees include service fees ($5-$10), cancellation fees ($10-$15), and restocking fees. Some stores also require a down payment of 10-20% of the purchase price. Always read the policy details before starting a layaway plan.
What happens if I miss a layaway payment?
Policies vary by store, but typically if you miss a payment, you'll have a grace period (usually 7-14 days) to catch up. If you don't make the payment within this period, your layaway may be cancelled, and you might be charged a cancellation fee. Some stores offer refunds of previous payments minus fees.
Is layaway better than using a credit card?
Layaway can be better than using a credit card because it doesn't charge interest or require a credit check. However, you can't take the item home until it's fully paid for, unlike with a credit card. The best choice depends on your financial situation and how quickly you need the item.
