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Rent-A-Center and FlexShopper are two of the most-recognized rent-to-own and lease-to-own retailers for furniture, electronics, and appliances. Both approve bad-credit and no-credit shoppers. Both let you take home merchandise immediately with weekly or biweekly payments. The differences come down to price markup, retailer networks, and early-buyout terms.
Verdict
Winner: FlexShopper for online shoppers wanting wide product selection; Rent-A-Center for in-store flexibility and same-day delivery
Both are expensive vs cash. Use only with early-payoff windows to control costs.
Rent-A-Center vs FlexShopper at a glance
| Feature | Rent-A-Center | FlexShopper |
| Type | Brick-and-mortar plus online | Online primarily |
| Credit minimum | None | None (income-based) |
| Approval amount | Up to $4,000 | Up to $5,000 |
| Standard term | Weekly or biweekly, varies | 12 months |
| Early payoff | 90-day same-as-cash | 90-day same-as-cash |
| Delivery | Often same day | Standard shipping |
Where Rent-A-Center wins
- Physical stores. See merchandise in person, get delivery the same day in many cases.
- Flexible payment schedule. Weekly, biweekly, or monthly payments.
- Wide selection of furniture, electronics, appliances, computers.
- Service plans included. Free repairs and replacements during the lease term.
Where FlexShopper wins
- Larger online product selection. Effectively partners with major retailers.
- Higher approval amounts at some retailers.
- Streamlined online experience. Apply, shop, check out fully online.
- 90-day same-as-cash window. Pay off in 90 days and total cost equals retail.
Total cost comparison
$1,500 purchase: Rent-A-Center full term roughly $2,800-$3,600 total. Rent-A-Center 90-day same-as-cash $1,500. FlexShopper 12-mo full term roughly $2,400-$2,800. FlexShopper 90-day buyout near retail. The math: Use 90-day same-as-cash if possible. Full-term costs 60-100 percent more than cash.
Who should pick which
Rent-A-Center if: You want to see merchandise in person, get same-day delivery, or shop locally.
FlexShopper if: You want a wider online selection, do not need same-day delivery, or are buying from a retailer that partners with FlexShopper.
Compliance note: Approval and rates depend on the lender and your individual credit profile. Subject to credit review. No guarantee of approval is implied.
FAQ
Do Rent-A-Center or FlexShopper check credit?
Both use income-based approval, not credit score. Some perform soft pulls for verification.
What happens if I miss payments?
Both can repossess merchandise. Late fees apply. Aggressive collection on extended non-payment.