A previously approved transaction allowing a customer to acquire goods from a large retail corporation without requiring immediate payment authorization at the point of sale. This mechanism streamlines the buying process for recurring expenses or subscriptions offered through the retailer, or for specific instances when arranged in advance with the retailers financial services. An example includes a customer setting up a payment plan for electronics, where each installment is automatically deducted on a predetermined schedule.
This type of transaction provides both convenience and predictability in budgeting. For customers, it offers a way to manage expenses over time, ensuring access to needed products or services without facing a large, upfront financial burden. From a historical perspective, such arrangements have evolved from traditional layaway plans to sophisticated digital payment systems, reflecting changes in consumer behavior and technological advancements in financial transactions. This approach also aids the retailer in securing future sales and fostering customer loyalty through reliable and convenient payment options.