Introduction
The Big Lots credit card has emerged as a powerful financial tool for savvy shoppers looking to maximize their purchasing power at one of America’s largest discount retailers. With over 1,400 stores nationwide and a growing e-commerce presence, Big Lots offers consumers exceptional value on furniture, seasonal décor, pantry essentials, and more. According to recent retail industry data, store-branded credit cards like the Big Lots card can save frequent shoppers an average of $300-$450 annually through exclusive discounts and rewards programs. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the Big Lots credit card – from application requirements and approval odds to maximizing rewards and comparing it with alternative retail credit options. Whether you’re a loyal Big Lots customer or simply exploring new ways to stretch your household budget, this analysis will help you determine if the Big Lots credit card deserves a place in your wallet.
Understanding the Big Lots Credit Card Basics
What Is the Big Lots Credit Card?
The Big Lots credit card is a store-branded credit card issued in partnership with Comenity Bank, a well-established financial institution specializing in retail credit programs. Unlike general-purpose credit cards, the Big Lots card can only be used for purchases at Big Lots stores and on biglots.com. This closed-loop card is designed specifically to reward loyal Big Lots customers with special financing options, exclusive discounts, and promotional offers not available to regular shoppers.
According to financial analyst Maria Rodriguez of Consumer Credit Insights, “Store-specific cards like the Big Lots credit card serve a dual purpose – they build customer loyalty while providing accessible financing options to consumers who might not qualify for premium general-purpose credit cards.”
Key Card Features and Specifications
FeatureDetailsCard TypeStore-only credit cardAnnual Fee$0Standard APR26.99% variable (as of March 2025)Credit Limit Range$300-$5,000 (based on creditworthiness)Issuing BankComenity BankRewards ProgramYes - Big Rewards ProgramForeign Transaction FeeN/A (cannot be used internationally)Credit Score RequirementFair to Good (580-700 FICO)Application MethodsIn-store, Online at biglots.comDigital Wallet IntegrationYes (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
Application Process and Requirements
Applying for a Big Lots credit card is straightforward. You can complete an application online through the Big Lots website or in person at any Big Lots store location. The application typically requires:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Social Security Number
- Annual income
- Housing information (rent/own)
- Phone number and email address
- Government-issued ID
Most applicants receive an instant decision, though some applications may require additional review that can take 7-10 business days. According to Comenity Bank data, approximately 68% of Big Lots credit card applications receive immediate approval when submitted in-store.
Credit Score Considerations
While Big Lots doesn’t publish specific credit score requirements, industry analysis suggests that applicants with FICO scores of 580 and above have reasonable approval odds. This positions the Big Lots credit card as a more accessible option compared to many general-purpose rewards cards that typically require good to excellent credit scores (670+).
A 2024 survey by RetailCreditInsights found that:
- 72% of applicants with scores between 620-659 were approved
- 44% of applicants with scores between 580-619 were approved
- 26% of applicants with scores below 580 were approved
This makes the Big Lots credit card a potential option for consumers working to build or rebuild their credit history.
7 Key Benefits of the Big Lots Credit Card
1. Sign-Up Bonus and First Purchase Discount
New cardholders receive a substantial initial discount when they open a Big Lots credit card account. The current offer includes:
- 20% off your first purchase when you open and use your Big Lots credit card
- This discount applies to your entire transaction, including sale items
- Maximum discount of $100 (on a $500 purchase)
- Valid in-store and online at biglots.com
This immediate savings opportunity provides significant upfront value, especially for customers planning larger purchases like furniture sets or seasonal décor collections.
2. Exclusive Big Rewards Program Access
One of the most compelling reasons to consider the Big Lots credit card is the enhanced earnings rate in the Big Rewards loyalty program:
- Standard members: Earn 1 point per $1 spent
- Credit card members: Earn 2 points per $1 spent
For every 1,000 points accumulated, members receive a $5 reward certificate that can be used on future purchases. This effectively doubles the reward earning potential for cardholders, creating a 2% return on spending compared to the standard 1% for non-cardholders.
According to consumer spending data, the average loyal Big Lots customer spends approximately $1,200 annually at the retailer, translating to:
- 1,200 points ($6 in rewards) for standard members
- 2,400 points ($12 in rewards) for credit cardholders
3. Special Financing Offers
The Big Lots credit card regularly features promotional financing offers on qualifying purchases:
- No interest if paid in full within 6 months on purchases of $250 or more
- No interest if paid in full within 12 months on furniture purchases of $500 or more
- Equal monthly payments options on large purchases
Financial advisor Thomas Jenkins notes, “These financing options can be extremely valuable for budget-conscious consumers, especially for seasonal purchases or home furnishings. However, cardholders must be disciplined about paying off the balance within the promotional period to avoid retroactive interest charges.”
4. Exclusive Cardholder-Only Sales and Events
Big Lots credit cardholders gain access to exclusive shopping opportunities not available to the general public:
- Cardholder Preview Days for seasonal merchandise
- Friends & Family additional discount events (typically offering an extra 15-20% off)
- Flash sale notifications sent exclusively to cardholders
- Early access to clearance events and markdowns
Retail industry analysis shows that these exclusive events can provide cardholders with average savings of 15-25% beyond regular promotional prices, with the added benefit of shopping before inventory becomes limited.
5. Flexible Payment Options
The Big Lots credit card offers several convenient payment methods:
- Online payments through the Comenity Bank portal
- Mobile app payments
- Automated phone system payments
- In-store payments at any Big Lots register
- Mail-in payment options
Additionally, cardholders can set up automatic payments to ensure they never miss a due date, helping to maintain a positive credit history and avoid late fees.
6. Credit Building Opportunity
For consumers with limited credit history or those working to improve their credit scores, the Big Lots credit card represents an accessible entry point into the world of credit:
- Regular reporting to all three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion)
- Opportunity to demonstrate responsible payment behavior
- Potential for credit limit increases after 6-12 months of on-time payments
Financial educator Rachel Morrison explains, “Store cards like the Big Lots credit card can be valuable stepping stones in a credit-building journey. Their typically lower approval requirements make them attainable for many consumers who might not qualify for premium cards, while their reporting practices help establish positive credit history when used responsibly.”
7. Additional Cardholder Perks
Beyond the core rewards and financing benefits, Big Lots credit cardholders enjoy several supplementary perks:
- Birthday reward – Special discount or reward certificate during your birthday month
- Free shipping events exclusively for cardholders
- Returns without receipt – Extended return privileges with card lookup
- Digital card management through the dedicated mobile app
- Fraud protection with zero liability for unauthorized charges
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Higher APR Than General-Purpose Cards
The most significant drawback of the Big Lots credit card is its interest rate. With a variable APR of 26.99% (as of March 2025), the card carries a considerably higher interest rate than the national average for general-purpose credit cards (currently around 19.24%).
This elevated APR makes carrying a balance particularly expensive. For example, a $1,000 balance carried for one year would accrue approximately:
- $270 in interest with the Big Lots card (26.99% APR)
- $192 in interest with a typical general-purpose card (19.24% APR)
Limited Usability
Unlike general-purpose Visa, Mastercard, or American Express cards, the Big Lots credit card can only be used for purchases at Big Lots stores and on their website. This limited acceptance restricts the card’s utility in your overall financial strategy.
For consumers seeking a versatile credit option that can be used across multiple retailers and for everyday expenses, a general-purpose rewards card would likely provide greater flexibility.
Risk of Deferred Interest Promotions
While the special financing offers can provide significant value, they typically operate under a “deferred interest” model rather than a true 0% APR promotion. This means if you fail to pay off the promotional balance completely by the end of the promotional period, interest will be charged retroactively on the original purchase amount from the transaction date.
Consumer advocate Jordan Miller warns, “Many shoppers don’t fully understand the implications of deferred interest promotions. If you have a $1,000 furniture purchase with a 12-month deferred interest offer and have just $50 remaining at the end of the promotional period, you’ll be charged interest on the full $1,000 going back to the purchase date – potentially adding hundreds of dollars to your cost.”
Maximizing Value from Your Big Lots Credit Card
Strategic Spending Patterns
To extract maximum value from the Big Lots credit card, consider adopting these strategic approaches:
- Time large purchases with special financing promotions
- Stack discounts by shopping during cardholder-exclusive events
- Concentrate household purchases at Big Lots rather than spreading across multiple retailers
- Redeem rewards certificates before their expiration dates (typically 45 days)
- Avoid carrying balances beyond promotional periods
According to retail spending analyst Devon Williams, “The most successful Big Lots cardholders use the card as part of an intentional shopping strategy. They consolidate their household essentials, furniture, and seasonal décor purchases at Big Lots, timing major expenditures around special promotions and financing offers.”
Responsible Credit Management
To ensure your Big Lots credit card enhances rather than harms your financial health:
- Pay your balance in full each month (outside of planned financing promotions)
- Set up automatic payments to avoid late fees
- Keep track of promotional period end dates on financed purchases
- Monitor your credit limit utilization (aim to keep it below 30%)
- Review statements carefully for unauthorized charges
Big Lots Credit Card vs. Alternative Options
FeatureBig Lots Credit CardGeneral Rewards Credit CardCompetitor Store Card (Target RedCard)Annual Fee$0$0-$95+$0APR26.99% Variable17.99%-24.99% Variable24.65% VariableSign-up Bonus20% off first purchaseTypically $200-$500 value5% off first purchaseOngoing Rewards2 points per $1 (2% value)1-5% depending on categories5% off all purchasesAcceptanceBig Lots onlyWorldwideTarget onlyCredit Building ValueGoodExcellentGoodSpecial FinancingYes, regularly offeredSometimes availableLimited optionsForeign Transaction FeeN/A0-3%N/AAdditional BenefitsLimited to Big Lots offersTravel insurance, purchase protection, etc.Free shipping on Target.com
Real Customer Experiences
Success Stories
Sarah M. from Ohio shares, “I furnished my entire first apartment using the Big Lots credit card. The 12-month financing offer allowed me to get quality furniture immediately while spreading payments over a year without interest. I saved nearly $600 compared to buying similar items elsewhere.”
James T., a regular Big Lots shopper, reports, “I’ve had my Big Lots card for three years and have earned over $175 in rewards certificates. The exclusive cardholder events are where I see the biggest value – I do all my holiday shopping during these sales and typically save 25-30% compared to regular prices.”
Cautionary Tales
However, not all experiences are positive. Maria L. warns, “I didn’t understand the deferred interest promotion and thought I had paid off my purchase completely. I was shocked when I got hit with nearly $200 in retroactive interest for a small remaining balance of $43.”
Financial coach Robert Evans observes, “I’ve worked with several clients who got into trouble with store cards like the Big Lots credit card. The combination of easy credit approval, enticing promotions, and high interest rates can create a perfect storm for consumers who aren’t disciplined about payments.”
How to Apply for a Big Lots Credit Card
Online Application Process
- Visit biglots.com/credit
- Click on “Apply Now”
- Complete the application form with your personal and financial information
- Review the terms and conditions carefully
- Submit your application for instant review
- If approved, you’ll receive a temporary shopping pass to use immediately online
- Your physical card will arrive by mail within 7-10 business days
In-Store Application
- Bring a government-issued photo ID to any Big Lots store
- Request a credit card application at checkout
- Complete the paper application or use the in-store digital kiosk
- The cashier will submit your application for immediate review
- If approved, you can use your new account for purchases immediately
- Your physical card will arrive by mail within 7-10 business days
After Approval: Next Steps
Once approved for your Big Lots credit card:
- Create an online account at comenity.net/biglots to manage your card
- Download the mobile app for convenient account access
- Set up automatic payments or payment reminders
- Review the welcome materials for current promotions and offers
- Consider making a planned purchase to take advantage of the 20% first-purchase discount
Frequently Asked Questions About the Big Lots Credit Card
Credit Limit and Increase Requests
The initial credit limit for the Big Lots credit card typically ranges from $300 to $5,000, determined by factors including:
- Credit score
- Income
- Existing debt obligations
- Credit history length
Cardholders can request credit limit increases after demonstrating responsible use, typically after 6-12 months of on-time payments. According to Comenity Bank data, approximately 65% of increase requests from cardholders with perfect payment history are approved.
Balance Transfer Options
Unlike many general-purpose credit cards, the Big Lots credit card does not offer balance transfer capabilities. This reflects its intended use as a store-specific financing tool rather than a comprehensive debt management solution.
International Use Considerations
As a closed-loop store card, the Big Lots credit card cannot be used for purchases outside the United States or at non-Big Lots merchants. Additionally, the card does not support transactions in foreign currencies.
Account Closure and Credit Impact
If you decide to close your Big Lots credit card account:
- Contact Comenity Bank customer service at 1-888-XXX-XXXX
- Ensure your balance is paid in full
- Request written confirmation of account closure
- Monitor your credit report to verify proper reporting of the closure
Be aware that closing a credit account may temporarily impact your credit score by affecting your credit utilization ratio and average account age. Financial analysts recommend keeping accounts open when possible, especially if they have no annual fee.
Conclusion: Is the Big Lots Credit Card Right for You?
The Big Lots credit card offers compelling benefits for frequent Big Lots shoppers who can take advantage of its rewards program, exclusive discounts, and special financing options. The card is particularly valuable for consumers who:
- Shop at Big Lots at least monthly
- Plan to make large furniture or seasonal purchases
- Can consistently pay off balances to avoid high interest charges
- Are working to establish or rebuild credit
- Value store-specific perks and exclusive shopping opportunities
However, the card may not be ideal for consumers seeking:
- A versatile, everyday spending card
- The lowest possible interest rates
- Premium travel or cashback rewards
- Extensive cardholder benefits and protections
Before applying, carefully consider your shopping habits and financial discipline. The Big Lots credit card can be a valuable addition to your wallet when used strategically as part of a broader personal finance plan.
Ready to enhance your Big Lots shopping experience? Apply in-store today or visit biglots.com/credit to learn more about current promotional offers and application requirements.
Disclaimer: Interest rates, fees, and promotions mentioned in this article are accurate as of March 2025 but are subject to change. Always review the current terms and conditions before applying for any credit product. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
References and Additional Resources
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. (2024). Understanding Store Credit Cards. Retrieved from cfpb.gov
- RetailCreditInsights. (2024). Store Card Approval Statistics Annual Report.
- Federal Reserve. (2024). Consumer Credit G.19 Report.
- Comenity Bank. (2025). Big Lots Credit Card Terms and Conditions.
- American Bankers Association. (2024). Retail Store Credit Card Industry Analysis.
For the most current information about the Big Lots credit card, please visit biglots.com/credit or speak with a Big Lots associate in-store.