Progressive Leasing is the largest LTO provider in the U.S. but it's not the only option. If Progressive Leasing isn't available at your chosen retailer, isn't available in your state, or has declined your application, several alternatives serve similar consumer needs. This guide summarizes the major alternatives and links to detailed head-to-head comparisons.
The Main Lease-to-Own Alternatives
Koalafi (formerly West Creek)
Similar economic structure with a growing retailer network. Strong presence at Ashley HomeStore and various appliance retailers. 90/100-day early purchase available.
Full Progressive Leasing vs Koalafi comparisonAcima
Independent furniture and specialty focus. Similar approval range and 90-day early purchase option. Common at independent furniture retailers.
Full The lease-to-own program vs Acima comparisonSnap Finance
Strong in tires, auto service, and furniture. 100-day early purchase option (10 days more than The program).
Full Progressive Leasing vs Snap Finance comparisonKatapult
Online-focused LTO provider integrated at e-commerce checkout for participating merchants. Best fit for online-only purchases.
Full Progressive Leasing vs Katapult comparisonNon-LTO Alternatives to Consider
Depending on your situation, alternatives outside the LTO category may serve you better than any lease-to-own agreement.
Store credit cards
Many retailers offer their own credit cards with promotional 0% APR financing on qualifying purchases. If you can qualify (typically requires fair or better credit) and can pay off the balance during the promotional window, a store credit card is almost always cheaper than any LTO. Examples include the My Best Buy Credit Card, Ashley Advantage Card, Mattress Firm Preferred Account, and others.
Secondary or "second-look" retail financing
Many retailers work with secondary lenders for applicants declined by their primary financing partner. These programs typically offer better economics than LTO for consumers who fall just short of the primary lender's criteria. Ask the retailer specifically about "second-look" programs before defaulting to LTO.
Personal loans
For larger purchases, a personal loan from a credit union, online lender, or bank may offer better rates than LTO — even for consumers with fair credit. Personal loans are unsecured, come with a fixed APR and payment schedule, and can be used for any purchase.
Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)
Services like Affirm, Klarna, Afterpay, and PayPal Pay in 4 offer short-term installment financing at many retailers. These are typically cheaper than LTO for consumers who qualify. Some offer 0% APR for shorter payment periods (typically 4 equal payments over 6 weeks).
Layaway
Some retailers offer traditional layaway, where you make payments toward a purchase without incurring interest. You take the item home only after paying in full, but there's no cost premium over the cash price.
Save toward the purchase
For non-emergency purchases, saving over 2–3 months and paying cash is the lowest-cost path. Even Progressive Leasing's 90-day early purchase option costs slightly more than cash. If your purchase isn't urgent, saving is the best financial outcome.
How to Choose the Right Alternative
Work through these questions in order:
- Is the purchase urgent? If not, save toward it and pay cash.
- Can you qualify for the retailer's store credit card with 0% APR promotional financing? If yes, that's almost always the cheapest financing option.
- Does the retailer offer a "second-look" financing partner? Ask before turning to LTO.
- Does the retailer offer BNPL? BNPL is generally cheaper than LTO for consumers who qualify.
- Do you need LTO to make the purchase? If yes, apply to whichever LTO provider your retailer offers, and commit to executing the 90-day (or 100-day for Snap) early purchase option.