What Is the Big Lots Credit Card?
The Big Lots Credit Card is a store-branded credit card issued by Comenity Bank. It can only be used for purchases at Big Lots, which limits its versatility — but it does come with some useful perks for regular Big Lots shoppers.
Because it's a store card with limited use, it tends to have more flexible approval requirements than general-purpose credit cards. That makes it worth considering if you're building or rebuilding your credit.
Benefits of the Big Lots Credit Card
- Rewards points: Earn Big Lots Rewards on every purchase (typically 2–3 points per dollar)
- Special financing offers: Deferred-interest financing on larger purchases (read the fine print carefully)
- Welcome bonus: Often includes a discount on your first purchase
- No annual fee: The card typically doesn't charge an annual fee
The points you earn can be redeemed for discounts on future Big Lots purchases.
Credit Score Needed
The Big Lots Credit Card is designed for people with fair to good credit. Most approved applicants have scores in the 580–650+ range, though approval isn't guaranteed at any score. Comenity Bank also considers factors like income, existing debt, and payment history.
If you have very limited credit history, you may still be approved — store cards often accept thinner credit files than major bank cards.
How to Apply for the Big Lots Credit Card
Online: Visit the Big Lots website and look for the credit card application under the financial services or account section. You'll need to provide your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, annual income, and contact information. Decisions are typically instant.
In-store: Ask a Big Lots associate about applying at checkout or the customer service desk. They'll direct you to an in-store kiosk or paper application.
Important: Applying triggers a hard credit inquiry, which may temporarily lower your credit score by a few points.
APR and Fees
Like most store cards, the Big Lots Credit Card carries a high APR — typically 29–33%. This card is not meant for carrying a balance. Pay in full each month to avoid expensive interest charges.
Watch out for deferred-interest financing offers: if you don't pay off the full promotional balance before the offer period ends, you'll be charged all the interest that would have accrued from the beginning. It's a trap that catches many shoppers.
Is It Good for Building Credit?
Yes, with caveats. The Big Lots Credit Card reports to the major credit bureaus, so on-time payments will help build your credit history. However:
- The high APR makes it risky if you carry a balance
- The card can only be used at Big Lots, limiting its utility
- Low credit limits are common, making utilization management important
If Big Lots is a store you shop at regularly, the card can be a useful tool. If not, a general-purpose secured card might serve you better for credit-building purposes.
The Bottom Line
The Big Lots Credit Card is a reasonable option for existing Big Lots shoppers with fair credit who want to earn rewards and continue building their credit. Just use it for planned purchases, pay the full balance monthly, and avoid the deferred-interest trap.
For broader credit building, consider pairing a store card with a dedicated credit builder tool that reports consistently to all three bureaus.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do I need for the Big Lots credit card?
Most approved applicants have scores in the 580–650+ range. Comenity Bank also evaluates income, payment history, and existing debt. Store cards generally have more flexible requirements than major bank credit cards, so thinner credit files may still qualify.
Does the Big Lots credit card have an annual fee?
No. The Big Lots Credit Card typically does not charge an annual fee, which makes it a lower-cost entry point for building credit if you shop at Big Lots regularly.
Does the Big Lots credit card report to credit bureaus?
Yes. Comenity Bank reports account activity to the major credit bureaus. On-time payments build your payment history, and responsible use over time can help improve your credit score.
What is deferred-interest financing and how does it work?
Deferred-interest promotions appear to offer 0% financing, but interest actually accrues in the background. If you don't pay off the full balance before the promotion ends, all of that accrued interest is added to your account at once. It's different from true 0% APR — pay the full balance before the deadline to avoid the charge.
Where can I use the Big Lots credit card?
The Big Lots Credit Card can only be used at Big Lots stores and on BigLots.com. It's a store-only card with no general purchasing power, which limits its usefulness compared to a secured Visa or Mastercard.
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