Because there is little risk involved for the seller, layaway can be readily offered to those with bad credit. If the transaction is not completed, the item is returned to stock; the customer's money may be returned in whole, returned less a fee, or forfeited entirely.
Because there is minimal risk for the seller when using a layaway system, it can be offered to customers with poor credit. If the transaction isn't completed, the item is returned to stock; the customer's money may be given back in full, partially refunded, or lost entirely.