LAYAWAY PLANS | Making comparisons

A look at some major retailers’ layaway programs:

Toys ‘R’ Us

Service fee: $5

Down payment: 20 percent

Cancellation fee: $10

Other details: Christmas orders must be paid in full by Dec. 16.

Wal-Mart

Service fee: $5

Down payment: 10 percent

Cancellation fee: $10

Other details: Each item must have a price of $15 or more, and customers must have a total minimum purchase of $50. Program runs through Dec. 16.

Kmart

Service fee: $5 for eight-week contract, $10 for 12-week contract

Down payment: $15 or 10 percent for eight-week program, $30 or 10 percent for 12-week contract

Cancellation fee: $10 for eight-week contract, $20 for 12-week contract

Other details: 12-week option is available only for purchases of more than $300.