Big Lots payment methods and where to send money
Big Lots accepts payments through several channels depending on whether you're paying a credit card bill, a layaway balance, or a purchase made through their financing option. The most direct method is online through your Big Lots account at biglots.com — you can log in, view your balance, and pay immediately using a bank account or debit card. You can also pay by phone by calling the customer service number on your bill or account statement.
If you prefer to pay in person, you can visit any Big Lots store location and make a payment at the register. Mail-in payments are also an option: send a check or money order to the address printed on your statement. When paying by mail, include your account number and allow 7 to 10 business days for the payment to post to your account.
For Big Lots credit card holders, payments can also be made through the card issuer's website or app if you financed through a third-party lender. Check your statement to see which company issued your card, as payment routing may differ from Big Lots' main payment system.
Key Takeaways
- Online payment through biglots.com is the fastest method and posts to your account within one business day.
- Phone payments can be made by calling the number on your bill, and the payment is processed immediately.
- In-store payments at any Big Lots location are processed right away and give you a receipt on the spot.
- Mail payments take 7 to 10 business days to post, so send them early if you have a due date approaching.
- If you used a third-party credit card or financing plan, check your statement to confirm where payments should go.
Setting up automatic payments to avoid missed due dates
Big Lots allows you to set up automatic payments through your online account, which removes the risk of forgetting a payment deadline. Log into your account, navigate to the payment settings, and choose the amount and date you want the payment to come out each month. You can set it to pay the full balance, a minimum payment, or a custom amount.
Automatic payments are deducted from your bank account on the date you select. If that date falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment typically processes on the next business day. You can change or cancel automatic payments at any time through your account settings, though you should do this before the scheduled payment date to stop that particular transaction.
Understanding late fees and what happens if you miss a payment
Late fees are charged when a payment is not received by the due date listed on your statement. The amount of the late fee varies depending on your account type and the terms of your agreement — check your statement or account agreement for the specific fee. A single late payment can also affect your credit score if the account is reported to credit bureaus.
If you miss a payment, Big Lots will typically send you a notice before taking further action. Paying as soon as you realize you're late stops additional fees from accumulating. If you fall significantly behind, your account may be suspended, your balance may be sent to a collection agency, or legal action could be taken to recover the debt.
If you're struggling to make a payment, contact Big Lots customer service before the due date. Some situations may allow for a payment extension or a modified payment plan, though this is not may provide and depends on your account history and circumstances.
Disputing a charge or payment issue on your account
If you see a charge you don't recognize or believe a payment was processed incorrectly, contact Big Lots customer service with your account number and the details of the disputed transaction. Have your statement and any receipts available when you call. Customer service can review the transaction and explain what it was for or investigate if it was an error.
If you paid by credit card or debit card and believe the charge was unauthorized, you also have the right to dispute it directly with your card issuer. Your card company can reverse the charge while they investigate, though this process typically takes 30 to 60 days. Disputing with your card issuer does not replace contacting Big Lots — doing both ensures the issue is addressed on both ends.
Paying off a Big Lots layaway or financing plan
Layaway and financing plans have their own payment schedules and terms. With layaway, you make regular payments over time until the item is fully paid, then you pick it up. With financing, you receive the item immediately but pay it back over several months, often with interest or promotional terms.
Payments for both can be made through the same channels as regular Big Lots purchases — online, by phone, in store, or by mail. If you want to pay off your layaway or financing plan early, you can do so without penalty in most cases. Paying early may reduce the total interest you pay on a financing plan. Contact customer service or check your account to confirm the current balance and whether early payoff is allowed under your specific plan terms.
What to do if you can't find your account or payment information
If you've lost your statement or can't remember your account number, you can retrieve this information by logging into your Big Lots account online with your email address and password. If you don't have an online account set up, you can create one at biglots.com using your email and a password of your choice.
If you've forgotten your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page to reset it. You'll receive an email with instructions to create a new password. If you don't have access to the email address associated with your account, call Big Lots customer service and they can help you regain access or look up your account information by phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for an online payment to show up on my account?
Online payments typically post within one business day. If you pay after business hours or on a weekend, it may take until the next business day to appear. If your payment doesn't show within two business days, contact customer service with your confirmation number.
Can I pay my Big Lots bill with a credit card?
You can pay a Big Lots credit card bill online or by phone using a bank account or debit card. Paying a credit card bill with another credit card usually isn't allowed and may trigger cash advance fees. Check your payment options when you log in to confirm what methods are accepted.
What happens if I pay more than my minimum payment?
Paying more than the minimum reduces your balance faster and lowers the total interest you pay over time. The extra amount is applied to your account and reduces your next minimum payment or can be used toward future purchases, depending on your account type.
Is there a fee for paying by phone?
Big Lots does not charge a fee for phone payments made through their customer service line. However, if you use a third-party payment service or your bank's bill pay feature, check whether they charge a fee for processing the payment.
Can I change my automatic payment date if it falls on a day I don't have money?
Yes, you can change your automatic payment date at any time through your online account settings. Choose a date that works better with your pay schedule. Make the change at least a few days before the current scheduled payment date to avoid processing the payment on the old date.