NASHVILLE, Tenn. -
After seeing high customer demand for layaway during last year's winter holiday season, Walmart is expanding the interest-free pay-over-time program for Christmas.
The new program will last a month longer than last year's and will include more items than the toys and electronics featured in 2011
Walmart's layaway program begins September 16 and continues through December 14.
The newly expanded list of eligible categories includes small home appliances and select sporting goods such as basketball goals, trampolines and large exercise equipment,
Customers can also use layaway for a broad selection of electronics, toys and jewelry.
To qualify, customers must pay the $15 refundable open fee, or deposit, and a down payment of 10% or $10, whichever is greater.
Individual items must be priced $15 or more, and the total layaway purchase must be at least $50.
Customers have 90 days to pay, a 30-day increase over 2011.
If the order is cancelled or not paid in full, the open fee is not refunded but there is no cancellation fee or additional charge. The retailer charged $10 last year.
For complete details, visit Walmart.com/Layaway.
Retailers like Kmart and TJ Maxx also plan to again offer layaway in 2012.
Costco is continuing a tradition they started last year. It's only August yet they already have Christmas items on the shelves.
