Upbound (UPBD) 10-Q 7 Nov 18 2018 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Company Informatio

Document and Company Information - shares	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Oct. 30, 2018
Document And Entity Information
Entity Registrant Name	RENT A CENTER INC DE
Entity Central Index Key	933,036
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2018
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,018
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Trading Symbol	RCII
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		53,514,721
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Store
Rentals and fees	$ 552,580	$ 552,194	$ 1,679,697	$ 1,723,019
Merchandise sales	67,141	67,566	239,487	266,061
Installment sales	15,681	17,276	49,459	51,690
Other	2,140	2,257	6,995	7,428
Total store revenues	637,542	639,293	1,975,638	2,048,198
Franchise
Merchandise sales	4,135	2,676	12,649	9,211
Royalty income and fees	3,265	1,996	10,428	6,177
Total revenues	644,942	643,965	1,998,715	2,063,586
Store
Cost of rentals and fees	153,716	153,202	465,852	474,511
Cost of merchandise sold	74,340	70,551	236,255	256,730
Cost of installment sales	5,244	5,207	16,103	16,099
Total cost of store revenues	233,300	228,960	718,210	747,340
Franchise
Franchise cost of merchandise sold	3,902	2,540	11,901	8,585
Total cost of revenues	237,202	231,500	730,111	755,925
Gross profit	407,740	412,465	1,268,604	1,307,661
Operating expenses
Labor	168,297	179,643	513,543	551,197
Other store expenses	149,326	171,995	492,129	546,485
General and administrative expenses	40,818	43,768	127,480	130,637
Depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangibles	16,946	18,679	52,274	55,928
Other charges	6,721	6,825	40,665	31,580
Total operating expenses	382,108	420,910	1,226,091	1,315,827
Operating profit (loss)	25,632	(8,445)	42,513	(8,166)
Debt refinancing charges	0	0	0	1,936
Interest expense	10,496	11,453	32,662	34,346
Interest income	(345)	(177)	(756)	(492)
Earnings (loss) before income taxes	15,481	(19,721)	10,607	(43,956)
Income tax expense (benefit)	2,563	(7,122)	3,779	(15,785)
Net earnings (loss)	$ 12,918	$ (12,599)	$ 6,828	$ (28,171)
Basic earnings (loss) per common share	$ 0.24	$ (0.24)	$ 0.13	$ (0.53)
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share	0.24	(0.24)	0.13	(0.53)
Cash dividends declared per common share	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0.16

Condensed Consolidated Statem_2

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ 12,918	$ (12,599)	$ 6,828	$ (28,171)
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax of $239 and $(97), and $112 and $3,530 for the three and nine months ended 2018 and 2017, respectively	900	(181)	423	6,555
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	900	(181)	423	6,555
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ 13,818	$ (12,780)	$ 7,251	$ (21,616)

Condensed Consolidated Statem_3

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation tax adjustment	$ 239	$ (97)	$ 112	$ 3,530

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 111,008	$ 72,968
Receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $4,247 and $4,167 in 2018 and 2017, respectively	65,197	69,823
Prepaid expenses and other assets	67,148	64,577
Rental merchandise, net
On rent	634,918	701,803
Held for rent	141,379	167,188
Merchandise held for installment sale	3,362	4,025
Property assets, net of accumulated depreciation of $545,619 and $525,673 in 2018 and 2017, respectively	243,121	282,901
Deferred tax asset	28,440	0
Goodwill	56,845	56,614
Other intangible assets, net	675	882
Total Assets	1,352,093	1,420,781
LIABILITIES
Accounts payable - trade	98,063	90,352
Accrued liabilities	311,277	298,018
Deferred tax liability	119,288	87,081
Senior debt, net	0	134,125
Senior notes, net	539,719	538,762
Total Liabilities	1,068,347	1,148,338
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common stock, $.01 par value; 250,000,000 shares authorized; 109,879,035 and 109,681,559 shares issued in 2018 and 2017, respectively	1,099	1,097
Additional paid-in capital	836,632	831,271
Retained earnings	804,260	798,743
Treasury stock at cost, 56,369,752 shares in 2018 and 2017	(1,347,677)	(1,347,677)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(10,568)	(10,991)
Total Stockholders' Equity	283,746	272,443
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	$ 1,352,093	$ 1,420,781

Condensed Consolidated Balanc_2

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 4,247	$ 4,167
Property assets, accumulated depreciation	$ 545,619	$ 525,673
Common stock - par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock - shares authorized	250,000,000	250,000,000
Common stock - shares issued	109,879,035	109,681,559
Treasury stock - shares at cost	56,369,752	56,369,752

Condensed Consolidated Statem_4

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Cash flows from operating activities
Net earnings (loss)	$ 6,828	$ (28,171)
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities
Depreciation of rental merchandise	461,484	469,483
Bad debt expense	10,372	11,051
Stock-based compensation expense	4,493	2,198
Depreciation of property assets	51,778	55,156
Loss on sale or disposal of property assets	2,529	18
Amortization and impairment of intangibles	496	4,667
Amortization of financing fees	4,074	3,276
Write-off of debt financing fees	0	1,936
Deferred income taxes	4,379	(33,940)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions
Rental merchandise	(375,013)	(339,278)
Receivables	(5,746)	(3,560)
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(2,663)	600
Accounts payable - trade	7,711	(20,032)
Accrued liabilities	13,133	12,040
Net cash provided by operating activities	183,855	135,444
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of property assets	(22,491)	(53,528)
Proceeds from sale of property assets	16,474	3,951
Acquisitions of businesses	(2,049)	(2,241)
Net cash used in investing activities	(8,066)	(51,818)
Cash flows from financing activities
Exercise of stock options	1,064	270
Shares withheld for payment of employee tax withholdings	(283)	(225)
Debt issuance costs	0	5,258
Proceeds from debt	27,060	216,880
Repayments of debt	(166,357)	(303,498)
Dividends paid	0	(12,811)
Net cash used in financing activities	(138,516)	(104,642)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	767	1,828
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	38,040	(19,188)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	72,968	95,396
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$ 111,008	$ 76,208

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The interim condensed consolidated financial statements of Rent-A-Center, Inc. included herein have been prepared by us pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the SEC’s rules and regulations, although we believe the disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading. We suggest these financial statements be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 . In our opinion, the accompanying unaudited interim financial statements contain all adjustments, consisting only of those of a normal recurring nature, necessary to present fairly our results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented. The results of operations for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. These financial statements include the accounts of Rent-A-Center, Inc. and its direct and indirect subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Unless the context indicates otherwise, references to “Rent-A-Center” refer only to Rent-A-Center, Inc., the parent, and references to “we,” “us” and “our” refer to the consolidated business operations of Rent-A-Center and any or all of its direct and indirect subsidiaries. We report four operating segments: Core U.S., Acceptance Now, Mexico and Franchising. Our Core U.S. segment consists of company-owned rent-to-own stores in the United States and Puerto Rico that lease household durable goods to customers on a rent-to-own basis. We also offer merchandise on an installment sales basis in certain of our stores under the names “Get It Now” and “Home Choice.” Our Acceptance Now segment, which operates in the United States and Puerto Rico, generally offers the rent-to-own transaction to consumers who do not qualify for financing from the traditional retailer through kiosks located within such retailers’ locations. Those kiosks can be staffed by an Acceptance Now employee (staffed locations) or employ a virtual solution where customers initiate the rent-to-own transaction online in the retailers' locations using our tablet computer and our virtual solution (direct locations). Our Mexico segment consists of our company-owned rent-to-own stores in Mexico that lease household durable goods to customers on a rent-to-own basis. Rent-A-Center Franchising International, Inc., an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Rent-A-Center, is a franchisor of rent-to-own stores. Our Franchising segment’s primary source of revenue is the sale of rental merchandise to its franchisees, who in turn offer the merchandise to the general public for rent or purchase under a rent-to-own transaction. The balance of our Franchising segment’s revenue is generated primarily from royalties based on franchisees’ monthly gross revenues. Proposed Merger On June 17, 2018, Rent-A-Center entered into a merger agreement (the “Vintage Merger Agreement”) with Vintage Rodeo Parent, LLC (“Vintage”), an affiliate of Vintage Capital Management, LLC (“Vintage Capital”), pursuant to which Vintage will, when the proposed merger is completed, acquire all of the outstanding shares of Rent-A-Center common stock for $15.00 per share in cash (collectively, the “Vintage Merger”). The Vintage Merger was approved by the Company's stockholders on September 18, 2018. As previously announced, the parties received a Second Request from the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) in connection with the Vintage Merger. Rent-A-Center and Vintage Capital continue to cooperate fully with the FTC. The parties intend to complete the Vintage Merger as soon as practicable following receipt of regulatory clearance from the FTC and the satisfaction or waiver of other customary closing conditions. The Company currently expects the Vintage Merger, which is not subject to a financing condition, to close during the first quarter of 2019. Upon completion of the Vintage Merger, Rent-A-Center will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Vintage and Rent-A-Center’s shares of common stock will be delisted from NASDAQ and deregistered. Newly Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) , which clarifies existing accounting literature relating to how and when a company recognizes revenue. We adopted ASU 2014-09 and all related amendments beginning January 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective adoption method. We recognized the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. The comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under the accounting standards in effect for those periods. Under Topic 606, initial franchise fees charged to franchisees for new stores are recognized over the term of the franchise agreement, rather than when they are paid by the franchisee, upon the opening of a new location. Furthermore, franchise advertising fees are presented on a gross basis, as revenue, in the consolidated statement of operations, rather than net of operating expenses in the consolidated statement of operations. Impacts resulting from adoption were not material to the consolidated statement of operations. See descriptions of the revenues in Note 2 . The cumulative effect of the changes made to our condensed consolidated balance sheets for the adoption of Topic 606 were as follows: January 1, 2018 Adjustments due to Topic 606 December 31, 2017 (In thousands) Unaudited LIABILITIES Accrued liabilities $ 299,683 $ (1,665 ) $ 298,018 Deferred tax liability 86,727 354 87,081 Total liabilities 1,149,649 (1,311 ) 1,148,338 STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Retained earnings $ 797,432 $ 1,311 $ 798,743 Total stockholders' equity 271,132 1,311 272,443 In accordance with Topic 606, the disclosure of the impact of adoption on our condensed consolidated statements of operations and condensed consolidated balance sheets for the periods ended September 30, 2018 is as follows: Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations Three Months Ended September 30, 2018 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2018 As Reported Adjustments due to Topic 606 Balances without Adoption of Topic 606 As Reported Adjustments due to Topic 606 Balances without Adoption of Topic 606 (In thousands) Unaudited Unaudited Royalty income and fees 3,265 (1,129 ) 2,136 10,428 (2,171 ) 8,257 Total revenues 644,942 (1,129 ) 643,813 1,998,715 (2,171 ) 1,996,544 Gross profit 407,740 (1,129 ) 406,611 1,268,604 (2,171 ) 1,266,433 Other store expenses 149,326 (1,068 ) 148,258 492,129 (3,047 ) 489,082 Total operating expenses 382,108 (1,068 ) 381,040 1,226,091 (3,047 ) 1,223,044 Operating profit 25,632 (61 ) 25,571 42,513 876 43,389 Earnings before income taxes 15,481 (61 ) 15,420 10,607 876 11,483 Income tax expense 2,563 (10 ) 2,553 3,779 53 3,832 Net earnings 12,918 (51 ) 12,867 6,828 823 7,651 Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets September 30, 2018 As Reported Adjustments due to Topic 606 Balances without Adoption of Topic 606 (In thousands) Unaudited LIABILITIES Accrued liabilities $ 311,277 $ (2,541 ) $ 308,736 Deferred tax liability 119,288 407 119,695 Total liabilities 1,068,347 (2,134 ) 1,066,213 STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Retained earnings $ 804,260 $ 2,134 $ 806,394 Total stockholders' equity 283,746 2,134 285,880 In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments , which provides guidance on the treatment of cash receipts and cash payments for certain types of cash transactions, to eliminate diversity in practice in the presentation of the cash flow statement. Rent-A-Center adopted ASU 2016-15 beginning January 1, 2018, on a retrospective basis. The adoption of ASU 2016-15 had no impact to the financial statements as of September 30, 2018. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business, which introduces amendments that are intended to make the guidance in ASC 805 on the definition of a business more consistent and cost-efficient. The amendments narrow the definition of a business and provide a framework that gives entities a basis for making reasonable judgments about whether a transaction involves an asset or a business. Rent-A-Center adopted ASU 2017-01 beginning January 1, 2018, using the prospective approach. The adoption of ASU 2017-01 had an immaterial impact to the financial statements as of September 30, 2018. In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting , which clarifies which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting. Under the new guidance, modification accounting is required if the fair value, vesting conditions or classification (equity or liability) of the new award are different from the original award immediately before the original award is modified. Rent-A-Center adopted ASU 2017-09 beginning January 1, 2018, on a prospective basis. The adoption of ASU 2017-09 had no impact to the financial statements as of September 30, 2018.

Revenues Revenues (Notes)

Revenues Revenues (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Revenues [Abstract]
Revenues [Text Block]	Revenues The following table disaggregates our revenue for the periods ended September 30, 2018 : Three Months Ended September 30, 2018 Core U.S. Acceptance Now Mexico Franchising Consolidated (In thousands) Unaudited Store Rentals and fees $ 403,483 $ 137,061 $ 12,036 $ — $ 552,580 Merchandise sales 30,135 36,264 742 — 67,141 Installment sales 15,681 — — — 15,681 Other 2,021 113 6 — 2,140 Total store revenues 451,320 173,438 12,784 — 637,542 Franchise Merchandise sales — — — 4,135 4,135 Royalty income and fees — — — 3,265 3,265 Total revenues $ 451,320 $ 173,438 $ 12,784 $ 7,400 $ 644,942 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2018 Core U.S. Acceptance Now Mexico Franchising Consolidated (In thousands) Unaudited Store Rentals and fees $ 1,226,233 $ 418,684 $ 34,780 $ — $ 1,679,697 Merchandise sales 106,828 130,347 2,312 — 239,487 Installment sales 49,459 — — — 49,459 Other 6,561 404 30 — 6,995 Total store revenues 1,389,081 549,435 37,122 — 1,975,638 Franchise Merchandise sales — — — 12,649 12,649 Royalty income and fees — — — 10,428 10,428 Total revenues $ 1,389,081 $ 549,435 $ 37,122 $ 23,077 $ 1,998,715 Rental-Purchase Agreements Core U.S., Acceptance Now, and Mexico Rentals and Fees. Merchandise is leased to customers pursuant to rental purchase agreements which provide for weekly, semi-monthly or monthly rental terms with non-refundable rental payments. At the expiration of each rental term customers renew the rental agreement by pre-paying for the next rental term. Generally, the customer has the right to acquire title of the merchandise either through a purchase option or through payment of all required rental terms. Customers can terminate the agreement at the end of any rental term without penalty. Therefore rental transactions are accounted for as operating leases and rental revenue is recognized over the rental term. Cash received for rental payments, including processing fees, prior to the period in which it should be recognized is deferred and recognized according to the rental term. Revenue related to various payment, reinstatement or late fees are recognized when paid by the customer at the point service is provided. Rental merchandise is depreciated using the income forecasting method and is recognized in cost of sales over the rental term. We offer additional product plans along with our rental agreements which provide customers with liability protection against significant damage or loss of a product, and club membership benefits, including various discount programs and product service and replacement benefits in the event merchandise is damaged or lost. Customers renew product plans in conjunction with their rental term renewals, and can cancel the plans at any time. Revenue for product plans is recognized over the term of the plan. Costs incurred related to product plans are primarily recognized in cost of sales. At September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, we had $39.4 million and $41.1 million , respectively, in deferred revenue included in accrued liabilities related to our rental purchase agreements. Revenue from contracts with customers Core U.S., Acceptance Now, and Mexico Merchandise Sales. Merchandise sales include payments received for the exercise of the early purchase option offered through our rental purchase agreements or merchandise sold through point of sale transactions. Revenue for merchandise sales is recognized when payment is received and ownership of the merchandise passes to the customer. The remaining net value of merchandise sold is recorded to cost of sales at the time of the transaction. Installment Sales. Revenue from the sale of merchandise in our retail installment stores is recognized when the installment note is signed and control of the merchandise has passed to the customer. The cost of merchandise sold through installment agreements is recognized in cost of sales at the time of the transaction. We offer extended service plans with our installment agreements which are administered by third parties and provide customers with product service maintenance beyond the term of the installment agreement. Payments received for extended service plans are deferred and recognized, net of related costs, when the installment payment plan is complete and the service plan goes into effect. Customers can cancel extended service plans at any time during the installment agreement and receive a refund for payments previously made towards the plan. At September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, we had $2.8 million and $3.0 million , respectively, in deferred revenue included in accrued liabilities related to other product plans. Other. Other revenue primarily consists of external maintenance and repair services provided by the Company’s service department, in addition to other miscellaneous product plans offered to our rental and installment customers. The Company’s service department is a licensed warranty service provider and performs service maintenance and merchandise repair for qualified warranty guarantees, on behalf of merchandise vendors. In addition, we provide external maintenance and repair services for our franchisees, and other external businesses and individual customers. Revenue for warranty services is recognized when service is complete and a claim has been submitted to the original vendor issuing the warranty guarantee. Revenue for external repair and maintenance services are recognized when services provided are complete and the customer has been billed. Costs incurred for repair services are recognized as incurred in labor and other store expenses. Revenue for other product plans is recognized in accordance with the terms of the applicable plan agreement. Franchising Merchandise Sales. Revenue from the sale of rental merchandise is recognized upon shipment of the merchandise to the franchisee. Royalty Income and Fees. Franchise royalties, including franchisee contributions to corporate advertising funds, represent sales-based royalties calculated as a percentage of gross rental payments and sales. Royalty revenue is recognized as rental payments and sales occur. Franchise fees are initial fees charged to franchisees for new or converted franchise stores. Franchise fee revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the franchise agreement. At September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, we had $2.7 million and $1.7 million , respectively, in deferred revenue included in accrued liabilities related to franchise fees.

Receivables and Allowance for D

Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Abstract]
Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Text Block]	Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivables consist of the following: (In thousands) September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 Installment sales receivable $ 51,477 $ 55,516 Trade and notes receivables 17,967 18,474 Total receivables 69,444 73,990 Less allowance for doubtful accounts (4,247 ) (4,167 ) Total receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts $ 65,197 $ 69,823 The allowance for doubtful accounts related to installment sales receivable was $3.0 million and $3.6 million at September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. The allowance for doubtful accounts related to trade and notes receivable was $1.2 million and $0.6 million at September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. Changes in our allowance for doubtful accounts are as follows: (In thousands) September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 Beginning allowance for doubtful accounts $ 4,167 $ 3,593 Bad debt expense 10,372 15,702 Accounts written off (10,740 ) (15,791 ) Recoveries 448 663 Ending allowance for doubtful accounts $ 4,247 $ 4,167

Senior Debt

Senior Debt	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Senior Debt [Abstract]
Senior Debt	Senior Debt We are party to a Credit Agreement with Bank of America, N.A., BBVA Compass Bank, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and SunTrust Bank, as syndication agents, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent (the "Agent"), and the several lenders from time to time parties thereto, dated March 19, 2014, as amended on February 1, 2016, September 30, 2016, March 31, 2017, and June 6, 2017 (the “Fourth Amendment”) and as so amended, (the "Credit Agreement"). The Credit Agreement currently provides a senior credit facility consisting of $225 million in term loans (the "Term Loans") and a $350 million revolving credit facility (the "Revolving Facility"). During the third quarter of 2018 the outstanding Terms Loans were repaid in full. Therefore there were no outstanding borrowings under the Term Loans or Revolving Facility at September 30, 2018 and $48.6 million and $85.0 million outstanding at December 31, 2017 , respectively. Total unamortized debt issuance costs reported in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017 were $2.1 million and $5.2 million , respectively. The Revolving Facility has a scheduled maturity of March 19, 2019 . We also utilize the Revolving Facility for the issuance of letters of credit. As of September 30, 2018 , we have issued letters of credit in the aggregate amount of $92.2 million . In the event the Vintage Merger is not completed prior to the maturation of the Revolving Facility, we will need to refinance our Revolving Facility. Borrowings under the Revolving Facility bear interest at varying rates equal to either the Eurodollar rate plus 1.50% to 3.00% , or the prime rate plus 0.50% to 2.00% (ABR), at our election. The margins on the Eurodollar loans and on the ABR loans for borrowings under the Revolving Facility, which were 2.75% and 1.75% , respectively, at September 30, 2018 , fluctuate based upon an increase or decrease in our Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio as defined by a pricing grid included in the Credit Agreement. A commitment fee equal to 0.30% to 0.50% of the unused portion of the Revolving Facility is payable quarterly, and fluctuates dependent upon an increase or decrease in our Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio. The commitment fee for the third quarter of 2018 was $1.1 million and was equal to 0.50% of the unused portion of the Revolving Facility. The aggregate outstanding amounts (including after any draw request) under the Revolving Facility may not exceed the Borrowing Base. The Borrowing Base is tied to the Eligible Installment Sales Accounts, Inventory and Eligible Rental Contracts, reduced by Reserves and the Term Loan Reserve, as defined in the Credit Agreement. We provide to the Agent information necessary to calculate the Borrowing Base within 30 days of the end of each calendar month, unless the remaining availability of the Revolving Facility is less than 20% of the maximum borrowing capacity of the Revolving Facility or $60 million, in which case we must provide weekly information. Our borrowings under the Credit Agreement are, subject to certain exceptions, secured by a security interest in substantially all of our tangible and intangible assets, including intellectual property, and are also secured by a pledge of the capital stock of our U.S. subsidiaries. Subject to a number of exceptions, the Credit Agreement contains, without limitation, covenants that generally limit our ability and the ability of our subsidiaries to: • incur additional debt; • pay cash dividends in excess of $15 million annually when the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio is greater than 3:75:1; • incur liens or other encumbrances; • merge, consolidate or sell substantially all property or business; • sell, lease or otherwise transfer assets (if not in the ordinary course of business, limited in any fiscal year to an amount equal to 5% of Consolidated Total Assets as of the last day of the immediately preceding fiscal year); • make investments or acquisitions (unless they meet financial tests and other requirements); or • enter into an unrelated line of business; • guarantee obligations of Foreign Subsidiaries in excess of $10 million at any time; and • exceed an aggregate outstanding amount of $10 million in indebtedness, including Capital Lease Obligations, mortgage financings and purchase money obligations that are secured by Liens permitted under the Credit Agreement. In addition, we are prohibited from repurchasing our common stock or 6.625% and 4.75% Senior Notes for the remaining term of the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement permits us to increase the amount of the Term Loans and/or the Revolving Facility from time to time on up to three occasions, in an aggregate amount of no more than $100 million . We may request an Incremental Revolving Loan or Incremental Term Loan, provided that at the time of such request, we are not in default, have obtained the consent of the administrative agent and the lenders providing such increase, and after giving effect thereto, (i) the Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio on a pro forma basis is no less than 1.10:1, (ii) the Total Revolving Extensions of Credit do not exceed the Borrowing Base, and (iii) if the request occurs during a Minimum Availability Period, the Availability must be more than the Availability Threshold Amount. The Credit Agreement permits the Agent, in its sole discretion, to make loans to us that it deems necessary or desirable (i) to preserve or protect the Collateral, (ii) to enhance the likelihood of, or maximize the amount of, repayment of the Loans and other Obligations, or (iii) to pay any other amount chargeable to or required to be paid by us pursuant to the terms of the Credit Agreement. The aggregate amount of such Protective Advances outstanding at any time may not exceed $35 million. In connection with entering into the Fourth Amendment to the Credit Agreement, we recorded a write-down of previously unamortized debt issuance costs of approximately $1.9 million in the second quarter of 2017. In addition, we paid arrangement and amendment fees to the Agent and the lenders that provided their consent to the Amendment of approximately $5.3 million , which were capitalized in the second quarter of 2017 and are amortized to interest expense over the remaining term of the agreement. The Credit Agreement requires us to comply with a Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage ratio of no less than 1.10:1. Breach of this covenant shall result in a Minimum Availability Period, which requires us to maintain $50.0 million of excess availability on the Revolving Facility. The table below shows the required and actual ratios under the Credit Agreement calculated as of September 30, 2018 : Required Ratio Actual Ratio Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio No less than 1.10:1 2.03:1 The actual Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage ratio was calculated pursuant to the Credit Agreement by dividing the sum of consolidated EBITDA minus Unfinanced Capital Expenditures minus the excess (to the extent positive) of (i) expenses for income taxes paid in cash minus (ii) cash income tax refunds received for the 12-month period ending September 30, 2018 ( $92.5 million ), by consolidated fixed charges for the 12-month period ending September 30, 2018 ( $45.5 million ). For purposes of the calculation, “consolidated fixed charges” is defined as the sum of consolidated interest expense and scheduled principal payments on indebtedness actually made during such period. The actual Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of 2.03 :1 as of September 30, 2018 was above the minimum requirement of 1.10 :1 under the Credit Agreement. Availability under our Revolving Facility was $247.3 million at September 30, 2018 . Events of default under the Credit Agreement include customary events, such as a cross-acceleration provision in the event that we default on other debt. In addition, an event of default under the Credit Agreement would occur if a change of control occurs. This is defined to include the case where a third party becomes the beneficial owner of 35% or more of our voting stock or a majority of Rent-A-Center’s Board of Directors are not Continuing Directors (all of the current members of our Board of Directors are Continuing Directors under the terms of the Credit Agreement). An event of default would also occur if one or more judgments were entered against us of $50.0 million or more and such judgments were not satisfied or bonded pending appeal within 30 days after entry. In addition to the Revolving Facility discussed above, we maintain a $12.5 million unsecured, revolving line of credit with INTRUST Bank, N.A. to facilitate cash management. As of September 30, 2018 , we had no outstanding borrowings against this line of credit and $5.7 million outstanding at December 31, 2017 . Liquidity As described above, our Revolving Facility is scheduled to mature in March 2019. Our primary liquidity requirements are for rental merchandise purchases. Other capital requirements include expenditures for property assets and debt service. Our primary sources of liquidity have been cash provided by operations. We utilize our Revolving Facility for the issuance of letters of credit, as well as to manage normal fluctuations in operational cash flow caused by the timing of cash receipts. In that regard, we may from time to time draw funds under the Revolving Facility for general corporate purposes. Amounts are drawn as needed due to the timing of cash flows and are generally paid down as cash is generated by our operating activities. In the event the Vintage Merger is not completed prior to the maturation of the Revolving Facility, we will need to refinance our Revolving Facility. We are evaluating refinancing options for our Credit Agreement, including amending and extending our current Revolving Facility with our existing lenders, or obtaining other sources of financing. We expect to obtain refinancing of our Revolving Facility, if required. We believe cash flow generated from operations, together with availability under our Credit Agreement for the remainder of its term, will be sufficient to fund our operations during the next 12 months.

Senior Notes

Senior Notes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Subsidiary Guarantors - Senior Notes [Abstract]
Senior Notes	Senior Notes On November 2, 2010, we issued $300 million in senior unsecured notes due November 2020, bearing interest at 6.625%, pursuant to an indenture dated November 2, 2010, among Rent-A-Center, Inc., its subsidiary guarantors and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, as trustee. A portion of the proceeds of this offering were used to repay approximately $200.0 million of outstanding term debt under our Prior Credit Agreement. The remaining net proceeds were used to repurchase shares of our common stock. The principal amount of the 6.625% notes outstanding as of September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , was $292.7 million , reduced by $1.3 million and $1.8 million of unamortized issuance costs, respectively. On May 2, 2013, we issued $250 million in senior unsecured notes due May 2021, bearing interest at 4.75%, pursuant to an indenture dated May 2, 2013, among Rent-A-Center, Inc., its subsidiary guarantors and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, as trustee. A portion of the proceeds of this offering were used to repurchase shares of our common stock under a $200.0 million accelerated stock buyback program. The remaining net proceeds were used to repay outstanding revolving debt under our Prior Credit Agreement. The principal amount of the 4.75% notes outstanding as of September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , was $250.0 million , reduced by $1.7 million and $2.1 million of unamortized issuance costs, respectively. The indentures governing the 6.625% notes and the 4.75% notes are substantially similar. Each indenture contains covenants that limit our ability to: • incur additional debt; • sell assets or our subsidiaries; • grant liens to third parties; • pay cash dividends or repurchase stock when total leverage is greater than 2.50:1 (subject to an exception for cash dividends in an amount not to exceed $20 million annually); and • engage in a merger or sell substantially all of our assets. Events of default under each indenture include customary events, such as a cross-acceleration provision in the event that we default in the payment of other debt due at maturity or upon acceleration for default in an amount exceeding $50.0 million , as well as in the event a judgment is entered against us in excess of $50.0 million that is not discharged, bonded or insured. The 6.625% notes may be redeemed on or after November 15, 2015, at our option, in whole or in part, at a premium declining from 103.313% (the current premium is 101.104% ). The 6.625% notes may be redeemed on or after November 15, 2018, at our option, in whole or in part, at par. The 6.625% notes also require that upon the occurrence of a change of control (as defined in the 2010 indenture), the holders of the notes have the right to require us to repurchase the notes at a price equal to 101% of the original aggregate principal amount, together with accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase. We expect to exercise our option to redeem the 6.625% notes in connection with the closing of the Vintage Merger. The 4.75% notes may be redeemed on or after May 1, 2016, at our option, in whole or in part, at a premium declining from 103.563% (the current premium is 101.188% ). The 4.75% notes may be redeemed on or after May 1, 2019, at our option, in whole or in part, at par. The 4.75% notes also require that upon the occurrence of a change of control (as defined in the 2013 indenture), the holders of the notes have the right to require us to repurchase the notes at a price equal to 101% of the original aggregate principal amount, together with accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase. We expect to exercise our option to redeem the 4.75% notes in connection with the closing of the Vintage Merger. Any mandatory repurchase of the 6.625% notes and/or the 4.75% notes would trigger an event of default under our Credit Agreement. We are not required to maintain any financial ratios under either of the indentures. Rent-A-Center and its subsidiary guarantors have fully, jointly and severally, and unconditionally guaranteed the obligations of Rent-A-Center with respect to the 6.625% notes and the 4.75% notes. Rent-A-Center has no independent assets or operations, and each subsidiary guarantor is 100% owned directly or indirectly by Rent-A-Center. The only direct or indirect subsidiaries of Rent-A-Center that are not guarantors are minor subsidiaries. There are no restrictions on the ability of any of the subsidiary guarantors to transfer funds to Rent-A-Center in the form of loans, advances or dividends, except as provided by applicable law.

Fair Value

Fair Value	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value	Fair Value We follow a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which classifies the inputs used in measuring fair values, in determining the fair value of our non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities, which consist primarily of goodwill. These tiers include: Level 1, defined as observable inputs such as quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets; Level 2, defined as inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are either directly or indirectly observable; and Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions. There were no changes in the methods and assumptions used in measuring fair value during the period. At September 30, 2018 , our financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, receivables, payables and senior notes. The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, receivables and payables approximates fair value at September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , because of the short maturities of these instruments. The fair value of our senior notes is based on Level 1 inputs and was as follows at September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017 : September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 (in thousands) Carrying Value Fair Value Difference Carrying Value Fair Value Difference 6.625% senior notes $ 292,740 $ 291,276 $ (1,464 ) $ 292,740 $ 278,835 $ (13,905 ) 4.75% senior notes 250,000 252,950 2,950 250,000 237,500 (12,500 ) Total senior notes $ 542,740 $ 544,226 $ 1,486 $ 542,740 $ 516,335 $ (26,405 )

Other Charges

Other Charges	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Restructuring Costs and Asset Impairment Charges [Abstract]
Other Charges	Other Charges 2018 Cost Savings Initiatives. During the first nine months of 2018, we began execution of multiple cost savings initiatives, including reductions in overhead and supply chain, resulting in pre-tax charges of $6.8 million in contract termination fees, $7.0 million in severance and other payroll-related costs, $1.9 million in legal and advisory fees, $1.1 million in other miscellaneous shutdown costs, $0.9 million in lease obligation costs, $0.4 million related to the write-down of capitalized software, and $0.1 million in disposal of fixed assets. Store Consolidation Plan. During the first nine months of 2018, we closed 129 Core U.S. stores and 9 locations in Mexico, resulting in pre-tax charges of $10.5 million , consisting of $7.9 million in lease obligation costs, $1.5 million in disposal of fixed assets, $0.9 million in other miscellaneous shutdown costs, and $0.2 million in severance and other payroll-related cost. Discontinuation of IT Software Projects. During the first half of 2018, we discontinued certain IT software projects and as a result incurred pre-tax charges of $1.9 million , related to the write-down of capitalized assets. Effects of 2018 Hurricane. During the third quarter of 2018, Hurricane Florence caused damage in North Carolina and South Carolina, resulting in pre-tax expenses of approximately $0.2 million for inventory losses, store repair costs, fixed asset write-offs, and employee assistance. At this time, we are unable to estimate the full extent of losses incurred due to the damage caused by Hurricane Florence, however, we do not ultimately expect the losses to be material to our financial statements. Acceptance Now Store Closures. During the first six months of 2017, we closed 319 Acceptance Now manned locations and 9 Acceptance Now direct locations, related to the hhgregg bankruptcy and liquidation plan and the Conn's referral contract termination. These closures resulted in pre-tax charges of $16.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, consisting primarily of rental merchandise losses, disposal of fixed assets, and other miscellaneous labor and shutdown costs. In addition, we recorded a pre-tax impairment charge of $3.9 million to our intangible assets, for our discontinued vendor relationship. Corporate Cost Rationalization. During the first nine months of 2017, we executed a head count reduction that impacted approximately 10% of our field support center workforce. This resulted in pre-tax charges for severance and other payroll-related costs of approximately $3.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. Effects of 2017 Hurricanes. During the third quarter of 2017, Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria caused significant damage in the continental United States and surrounding areas, including Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico, resulting in pre-tax expenses of approximately $1.9 million in the third quarter of 2017 for inventory losses, store repair costs, fixed asset write-offs, and employee assistance. Approximately $1.7 million of these pre-tax expenses related to Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, while the remaining $0.2 million related to employee assistance payments for Hurricane Maria. Activity with respect to other charges for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 is summarized in the below table: (in thousands) Accrued Charges at December 31, 2017 Charges & Adjustments Payments Accrued Charges at September 30, 2018 Cash charges: Labor reduction costs $ 1,674 $ 7,168 $ (6,411 ) $ 2,431 Lease obligation costs 2,105 9,303 (5,564 ) 5,844 Contract termination costs — 6,750 (6,750 ) — Other miscellaneous — 2,165 (2,165 ) — Total cash charges $ 3,779 25,386 $ (20,890 ) $ 8,275 Non-cash charges: Rental merchandise recoveries (484 ) Asset impairments 3,771 Other (1) 11,992 Total other charges $ 40,665 (1) Other primarily includes incremental legal and advisory fees related to our strategic review process and the Vintage Merger Agreement, partially offset by insurance claims recoveries related to 2017 hurricanes.

Segment Information

Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Segment Information [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information The operating segments reported below are the segments for which separate financial information is available and for which segment results are evaluated by the chief operating decision makers. Our operating segments are organized based on factors including, but not limited to, type of business transactions, geographic location and store ownership. All operating segments offer merchandise from four basic product categories: consumer electronics, appliances, computers, furniture and accessories. Our Core U.S. and Franchising segments also offer smartphones. Segment information for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017 is as follows: Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, (in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Revenues Core U.S. $ 451,320 $ 442,763 $ 1,389,081 $ 1,390,687 Acceptance Now 173,438 184,293 549,435 622,160 Mexico 12,784 12,237 37,122 35,351 Franchising 7,400 4,672 23,077 15,388 Total revenues $ 644,942 $ 643,965 $ 1,998,715 $ 2,063,586 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, (in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Gross profit Core U.S. $ 313,771 $ 309,779 $ 975,231 $ 965,739 Acceptance Now 81,586 92,088 256,441 310,451 Mexico 8,885 8,466 25,756 24,668 Franchising 3,498 2,132 11,176 6,803 Total gross profit $ 407,740 $ 412,465 $ 1,268,604 $ 1,307,661 Beginning in 2018, we implemented an intercompany book value adjustment charge for all rental merchandise transfers from Acceptance Now locations to Core U.S. stores. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, book value adjustments on intercompany rental merchandise transfers were $2.9 million and $9.3 million , respectively, resulting in a corresponding increase in gross profit for the Core U.S. and decrease in gross profit for Acceptance Now. Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, (in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Operating profit (loss) Core U.S. $ 43,221 $ 23,859 $ 115,135 $ 79,241 Acceptance Now 26,278 10,379 70,865 49,595 Mexico 922 (242 ) 2,306 (122 ) Franchising 522 1,032 3,687 3,565 Total segments 70,943 35,028 191,993 132,279 Corporate (45,311 ) (43,473 ) (149,480 ) (140,445 ) Total operating profit (loss) $ 25,632 $ (8,445 ) $ 42,513 $ (8,166 ) Beginning in 2018, we implemented an intercompany book value adjustment charge for all rental merchandise transfers from Acceptance Now locations to Core U.S. stores. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, book value adjustments for inventory charge-offs related to intercompany rental merchandise transfers were $0.5 million and $1.7 million , respectively, resulting in a corresponding increase in operating profit for the Core U.S. and decrease in operating profit for Acceptance Now. Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, (in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangibles Core U.S. $ 6,216 $ 7,725 $ 19,482 $ 23,715 Acceptance Now 421 568 1,288 1,983 Mexico 222 496 839 1,549 Franchising 45 45 133 133 Total segments 6,904 8,834 21,742 27,380 Corporate 10,042 9,845 30,532 28,548 Total depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangibles $ 16,946 $ 18,679 $ 52,274 $ 55,928 We recorded an impairment of intangibles of $3.9 million in the Acceptance Now segment during the first quarter of 2017 that is not included in the table above. The impairment charge was recorded to Other Charges in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations. Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, (in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Capital expenditures Core U.S. $ 3,586 $ 6,625 $ 12,801 $ 21,333 Acceptance Now 76 430 156 1,525 Mexico 113 56 151 103 Total segments 3,775 7,111 13,108 22,961 Corporate 3,021 6,258 9,383 30,567 Total capital expenditures $ 6,796 $ 13,369 $ 22,491 $ 53,528 (in thousands) September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 On rent rental merchandise, net Core U.S. $ 378,221 $ 408,993 Acceptance Now 241,044 278,443 Mexico 15,653 14,367 Total on rent rental merchandise, net $ 634,918 $ 701,803 (in thousands) September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 Held for rent rental merchandise, net Core U.S. $ 134,759 $ 156,039 Acceptance Now 1,290 4,940 Mexico 5,330 6,209 Total held for rent rental merchandise, net $ 141,379 $ 167,188 (in thousands) September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 Assets by segment Core U.S. $ 709,074 $ 776,296 Acceptance Now 306,553 350,970 Mexico 30,747 33,529 Franchising 3,899 3,802 Total segments 1,050,273 1,164,597 Corporate 301,820 256,184 Total assets $ 1,352,093 $ 1,420,781

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation We recognized $1.5 million and $1.1 million in pre-tax compensation expense related to stock options and restricted stock units during the three months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, and $4.5 million and $2.2 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Stock compensation expense recognized during the nine months ended September 30, 2017 was impacted by the reversal of unvested stock compensation in the first quarter of 2017 for stock awards previously granted to former executives. During the nine months ended September 30, 2018 , we granted approximately 554,000 stock options, 673,000 market-based performance restricted stock units and 490,000 time-vesting restricted stock units. The stock options granted were valued using a Black-Scholes pricing model with the following assumptions: an expected volatility of 44.97% to 56.01% , a risk-free interest rate of 2.07% to 2.78% , no expected dividend yield, and an expected term of 3.50 to 5.75 years . The weighted-average exercise price of the options granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2018 was $9.06 and the weighted-average grant-date fair value was $3.97 . Performance-based restricted stock units are valued using a Monte Carlo simulation. Time-vesting restricted stock units are valued using the closing price on the trading day immediately preceding the day of the grant. The weighted-average grant date fair value of the market-based performance and time-vesting restricted stock units granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2018 was $9.03 and $8.58 , respectively.

Contingencies

Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies	Contingencies From time to time, the Company, along with our subsidiaries, is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. We reserve for loss contingencies that are both probable and reasonably estimable. We regularly monitor developments related to these legal proceedings, and review the adequacy of our legal reserves on a quarterly basis. We do not expect these losses to have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements if and when such losses are incurred. We are subject to unclaimed property audits by states in the ordinary course of business. The property subject to review in this audit process included unclaimed wages, vendor payments and customer refunds. State escheat laws generally require entities to report and remit abandoned and unclaimed property to the state. Failure to timely report and remit the property can result in assessments that could include interest and penalties, in addition to the payment of the escheat liability itself. We routinely remit escheat payments to states in compliance with applicable escheat laws. Assuming completion of the Vintage Merger, we expect to pay estimated financial advisory fees of approximately $15 million . Alan Hall, et. al. v. Rent-A-Center, Inc., et. al.; James DePalma, et. al. v. Rent-A-Center, Inc., et. al. On December 23, 2016, a putative class action was filed against us and certain of our former officers by Alan Hall in Federal court in Sherman, Texas. The complaint alleges that the defendants violated Section 10(b) and/or Section 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder by issuing false and misleading statements and omitting material facts regarding our business, including implementation of our point-of-sale system, operations and prospects during the period covered by the complaint. The complaint purports to be brought on behalf of all purchasers of our common stock from July 27, 2015 through October 10, 2016, and seeks damages in unspecified amounts and costs, fees, and expenses. A complaint filed by James DePalma also in Sherman, Texas alleging similar claims was consolidated by the court into the Hall matter. On October 19, 2017, the magistrate judge entered a recommendation to deny our motion to dismiss the complaint to the district judge who will decide the issue. We filed our objections to the magistrate's recommendation on November 2, 2017. On December 14, 2017, the district judge issued an order adopting the magistrate's report and denying our motion to dismiss the complaint. The parties have subsequently agreed to settle this matter for $11 million pursuant to a Settlement Term Sheet dated October 8, 2018. The settlement is in the documentation process and is subject to approval by the court. The settlement will be fully funded by insurance.

Loss Per Common Share

Loss Per Common Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Loss Per Common Share	Loss Per Common Share Summarized basic and diluted earnings per common share were calculated as follows: Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, (in thousands, except per share data) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Numerator: Net earnings (loss) $ 12,918 $ (12,599 ) $ 6,828 $ (28,171 ) Denominator: Weighted-average shares outstanding 53,508 53,306 53,455 53,272 Effect of dilutive stock awards (1) 1,404 — 946 — Weighted-average dilutive shares 54,912 53,306 54,401 53,272 Basic earnings (loss) per common share $ 0.24 $ (0.24 ) $ 0.13 $ (0.53 ) Diluted earnings (loss) per common share $ 0.24 $ (0.24 ) $ 0.13 $ (0.53 ) Anti-dilutive securities excluded from diluted loss per common share: Anti-dilutive restricted share units — 635 — 635 Anti-dilutive performance share units 211 784 211 784 Anti-dilutive stock options 1,417 3,103 1,672 3,103 (1) There was no dilutive effect to the loss per common share for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 due to the net loss incurred for respective periods.

Basis of Presentation (Policies

Basis of Presentation (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation	These financial statements include the accounts of Rent-A-Center, Inc. and its direct and indirect subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Newly Adopted Accounting Pronouncements [Policy Text Block]	Newly Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) , which clarifies existing accounting literature relating to how and when a company recognizes revenue. We adopted ASU 2014-09 and all related amendments beginning January 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective adoption method. We recognized the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. The comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under the accounting standards in effect for those periods. Under Topic 606, initial franchise fees charged to franchisees for new stores are recognized over the term of the franchise agreement, rather than when they are paid by the franchisee, upon the opening of a new location. Furthermore, franchise advertising fees are presented on a gross basis, as revenue, in the consolidated statement of operations, rather than net of operating expenses in the consolidated statement of operations. Impacts resulting from adoption were not material to the consolidated statement of operations. See descriptions of the revenues in Note 2 . The cumulative effect of the changes made to our condensed consolidated balance sheets for the adoption of Topic 606 were as follows: January 1, 2018 Adjustments due to Topic 606 December 31, 2017 (In thousands) Unaudited LIABILITIES Accrued liabilities $ 299,683 $ (1,665 ) $ 298,018 Deferred tax liability 86,727 354 87,081 Total liabilities 1,149,649 (1,311 ) 1,148,338 STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Retained earnings $ 797,432 $ 1,311 $ 798,743 Total stockholders' equity 271,132 1,311 272,443 In accordance with Topic 606, the disclosure of the impact of adoption on our condensed consolidated statements of operations and condensed consolidated balance sheets for the periods ended September 30, 2018 is as follows: Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations Three Months Ended September 30, 2018 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2018 As Reported Adjustments due to Topic 606 Balances without Adoption of Topic 606 As Reported Adjustments due to Topic 606 Balances without Adoption of Topic 606 (In thousands) Unaudited Unaudited Royalty income and fees 3,265 (1,129 ) 2,136 10,428 (2,171 ) 8,257 Total revenues 644,942 (1,129 ) 643,813 1,998,715 (2,171 ) 1,996,544 Gross profit 407,740 (1,129 ) 406,611 1,268,604 (2,171 ) 1,266,433 Other store expenses 149,326 (1,068 ) 148,258 492,129 (3,047 ) 489,082 Total operating expenses 382,108 (1,068 ) 381,040 1,226,091 (3,047 ) 1,223,044 Operating profit 25,632 (61 ) 25,571 42,513 876 43,389 Earnings before income taxes 15,481 (61 ) 15,420 10,607 876 11,483 Income tax expense 2,563 (10 ) 2,553 3,779 53 3,832 Net earnings 12,918 (51 ) 12,867 6,828 823 7,651 Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets September 30, 2018 As Reported Adjustments due to Topic 606 Balances without Adoption of Topic 606 (In thousands) Unaudited LIABILITIES Accrued liabilities $ 311,277 $ (2,541 ) $ 308,736 Deferred tax liability 119,288 407 119,695 Total liabilities 1,068,347 (2,134 ) 1,066,213 STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Retained earnings $ 804,260 $ 2,134 $ 806,394 Total stockholders' equity 283,746 2,134 285,880 In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments , which provides guidance on the treatment of cash receipts and cash payments for certain types of cash transactions, to eliminate diversity in practice in the presentation of the cash flow statement. Rent-A-Center adopted ASU 2016-15 beginning January 1, 2018, on a retrospective basis. The adoption of ASU 2016-15 had no impact to the financial statements as of September 30, 2018. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business, which introduces amendments that are intended to make the guidance in ASC 805 on the definition of a business more consistent and cost-efficient. The amendments narrow the definition of a business and provide a framework that gives entities a basis for making reasonable judgments about whether a transaction involves an asset or a business. Rent-A-Center adopted ASU 2017-01 beginning January 1, 2018, using the prospective approach. The adoption of ASU 2017-01 had an immaterial impact to the financial statements as of September 30, 2018. In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting , which clarifies which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting. Under the new guidance, modification accounting is required if the fair value, vesting conditions or classification (equity or liability) of the new award are different from the original award immediately before the original award is modified. Rent-A-Center adopted ASU 2017-09 beginning January 1, 2018, on a prospective basis. The adoption of ASU 2017-09 had no impact to the financial statements as of September 30, 2018.

Basis of Presentation Basis of

Basis of Presentation Basis of Presentation (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block]	The cumulative effect of the changes made to our condensed consolidated balance sheets for the adoption of Topic 606 were as follows: January 1, 2018 Adjustments due to Topic 606 December 31, 2017 (In thousands) Unaudited LIABILITIES Accrued liabilities $ 299,683 $ (1,665 ) $ 298,018 Deferred tax liability 86,727 354 87,081 Total liabilities 1,149,649 (1,311 ) 1,148,338 STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Retained earnings $ 797,432 $ 1,311 $ 798,743 Total stockholders' equity 271,132 1,311 272,443 In accordance with Topic 606, the disclosure of the impact of adoption on our condensed consolidated statements of operations and condensed consolidated balance sheets for the periods ended September 30, 2018 is as follows: Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations Three Months Ended September 30, 2018 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2018 As Reported Adjustments due to Topic 606 Balances without Adoption of Topic 606 As Reported Adjustments due to Topic 606 Balances without Adoption of Topic 606 (In thousands) Unaudited Unaudited Royalty income and fees 3,265 (1,129 ) 2,136 10,428 (2,171 ) 8,257 Total revenues 644,942 (1,129 ) 643,813 1,998,715 (2,171 ) 1,996,544 Gross profit 407,740 (1,129 ) 406,611 1,268,604 (2,171 ) 1,266,433 Other store expenses 149,326 (1,068 ) 148,258 492,129 (3,047 ) 489,082 Total operating expenses 382,108 (1,068 ) 381,040 1,226,091 (3,047 ) 1,223,044 Operating profit 25,632 (61 ) 25,571 42,513 876 43,389 Earnings before income taxes 15,481 (61 ) 15,420 10,607 876 11,483 Income tax expense 2,563 (10 ) 2,553 3,779 53 3,832 Net earnings 12,918 (51 ) 12,867 6,828 823 7,651 Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets September 30, 2018 As Reported Adjustments due to Topic 606 Balances without Adoption of Topic 606 (In thousands) Unaudited LIABILITIES Accrued liabilities $ 311,277 $ (2,541 ) $ 308,736 Deferred tax liability 119,288 407 119,695 Total liabilities 1,068,347 (2,134 ) 1,066,213 STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Retained earnings $ 804,260 $ 2,134 $ 806,394 Total stockholders' equity 283,746 2,134 285,880

Revenues Revenues (Tables)

Revenues Revenues (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Revenues [Abstract]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]	The following table disaggregates our revenue for the periods ended September 30, 2018 : Three Months Ended September 30, 2018 Core U.S. Acceptance Now Mexico Franchising Consolidated (In thousands) Unaudited Store Rentals and fees $ 403,483 $ 137,061 $ 12,036 $ — $ 552,580 Merchandise sales 30,135 36,264 742 — 67,141 Installment sales 15,681 — — — 15,681 Other 2,021 113 6 — 2,140 Total store revenues 451,320 173,438 12,784 — 637,542 Franchise Merchandise sales — — — 4,135 4,135 Royalty income and fees — — — 3,265 3,265 Total revenues $ 451,320 $ 173,438 $ 12,784 $ 7,400 $ 644,942 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2018 Core U.S. Acceptance Now Mexico Franchising Consolidated (In thousands) Unaudited Store Rentals and fees $ 1,226,233 $ 418,684 $ 34,780 $ — $ 1,679,697 Merchandise sales 106,828 130,347 2,312 — 239,487 Installment sales 49,459 — — — 49,459 Other 6,561 404 30 — 6,995 Total store revenues 1,389,081 549,435 37,122 — 1,975,638 Franchise Merchandise sales — — — 12,649 12,649 Royalty income and fees — — — 10,428 10,428 Total revenues $ 1,389,081 $ 549,435 $ 37,122 $ 23,077 $ 1,998,715

Receivables and Allowance for_2

Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Abstract]
Receivables [Table Text Block]	Receivables consist of the following: (In thousands) September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 Installment sales receivable $ 51,477 $ 55,516 Trade and notes receivables 17,967 18,474 Total receivables 69,444 73,990 Less allowance for doubtful accounts (4,247 ) (4,167 ) Total receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts $ 65,197 $ 69,823
Changes in allowance for doubtful accounts [Table Text Block]	Changes in our allowance for doubtful accounts are as follows: (In thousands) September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 Beginning allowance for doubtful accounts $ 4,167 $ 3,593 Bad debt expense 10,372 15,702 Accounts written off (10,740 ) (15,791 ) Recoveries 448 663 Ending allowance for doubtful accounts $ 4,247 $ 4,167

Senior Debt (Tables)

Senior Debt (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Senior Debt [Abstract]
Financial Covenants Ratios	The table below shows the required and actual ratios under the Credit Agreement calculated as of September 30, 2018 : Required Ratio Actual Ratio Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio No less than 1.10:1 2.03:1

Fair Value Fair Value (Tables)

Fair Value Fair Value (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring	The fair value of our senior notes is based on Level 1 inputs and was as follows at September 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017 : September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 (in thousands) Carrying Value Fair Value Difference Carrying Value Fair Value Difference 6.625% senior notes $ 292,740 $ 291,276 $ (1,464 ) $ 292,740 $ 278,835 $ (13,905 ) 4.75% senior notes 250,000 252,950 2,950 250,000 237,500 (12,500 ) Total senior notes $ 542,740 $ 544,226 $ 1,486 $ 542,740 $ 516,335 $ (26,405 )

Other Charges (Tables)

Other Charges (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Restructuring Costs and Asset Impairment Charges [Abstract]
Other Charges [Table Text Block]	Activity with respect to other charges for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 is summarized in the below table: (in thousands) Accrued Charges at December 31, 2017 Charges & Adjustments Payments Accrued Charges at September 30, 2018 Cash charges: Labor reduction costs $ 1,674 $ 7,168 $ (6,411 ) $ 2,431 Lease obligation costs 2,105 9,303 (5,564 ) 5,844 Contract termination costs — 6,750 (6,750 ) — Other miscellaneous — 2,165 (2,165 ) — Total cash charges $ 3,779 25,386 $ (20,890 ) $ 8,275 Non-cash charges: Rental merchandise recoveries (484 ) Asset impairments 3,771 Other (1) 11,992 Total other charges $ 40,665 (1) Other primarily includes incremental legal and advisory fees related to our strategic review process and the Vintage Merger Agreement, partially offset by insurance claims recoveries related to 2017 hurricanes.

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Segment Information [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment information for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017 is as follows: Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, (in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Revenues Core U.S. $ 451,320 $ 442,763 $ 1,389,081 $ 1,390,687 Acceptance Now 173,438 184,293 549,435 622,160 Mexico 12,784 12,237 37,122 35,351 Franchising 7,400 4,672 23,077 15,388 Total revenues $ 644,942 $ 643,965 $ 1,998,715 $ 2,063,586 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, (in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Gross profit Core U.S. $ 313,771 $ 309,779 $ 975,231 $ 965,739 Acceptance Now 81,586 92,088 256,441 310,451 Mexico 8,885 8,466 25,756 24,668 Franchising 3,498 2,132 11,176 6,803 Total gross profit $ 407,740 $ 412,465 $ 1,268,604 $ 1,307,661 Beginning in 2018, we implemented an intercompany book value adjustment charge for all rental merchandise transfers from Acceptance Now locations to Core U.S. stores. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, book value adjustments on intercompany rental merchandise transfers were $2.9 million and $9.3 million , respectively, resulting in a corresponding increase in gross profit for the Core U.S. and decrease in gross profit for Acceptance Now. Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, (in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Operating profit (loss) Core U.S. $ 43,221 $ 23,859 $ 115,135 $ 79,241 Acceptance Now 26,278 10,379 70,865 49,595 Mexico 922 (242 ) 2,306 (122 ) Franchising 522 1,032 3,687 3,565 Total segments 70,943 35,028 191,993 132,279 Corporate (45,311 ) (43,473 ) (149,480 ) (140,445 ) Total operating profit (loss) $ 25,632 $ (8,445 ) $ 42,513 $ (8,166 ) Beginning in 2018, we implemented an intercompany book value adjustment charge for all rental merchandise transfers from Acceptance Now locations to Core U.S. stores. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, book value adjustments for inventory charge-offs related to intercompany rental merchandise transfers were $0.5 million and $1.7 million , respectively, resulting in a corresponding increase in operating profit for the Core U.S. and decrease in operating profit for Acceptance Now. Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, (in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangibles Core U.S. $ 6,216 $ 7,725 $ 19,482 $ 23,715 Acceptance Now 421 568 1,288 1,983 Mexico 222 496 839 1,549 Franchising 45 45 133 133 Total segments 6,904 8,834 21,742 27,380 Corporate 10,042 9,845 30,532 28,548 Total depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangibles $ 16,946 $ 18,679 $ 52,274 $ 55,928 We recorded an impairment of intangibles of $3.9 million in the Acceptance Now segment during the first quarter of 2017 that is not included in the table above. The impairment charge was recorded to Other Charges in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations. Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, (in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Capital expenditures Core U.S. $ 3,586 $ 6,625 $ 12,801 $ 21,333 Acceptance Now 76 430 156 1,525 Mexico 113 56 151 103 Total segments 3,775 7,111 13,108 22,961 Corporate 3,021 6,258 9,383 30,567 Total capital expenditures $ 6,796 $ 13,369 $ 22,491 $ 53,528 (in thousands) September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 On rent rental merchandise, net Core U.S. $ 378,221 $ 408,993 Acceptance Now 241,044 278,443 Mexico 15,653 14,367 Total on rent rental merchandise, net $ 634,918 $ 701,803 (in thousands) September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 Held for rent rental merchandise, net Core U.S. $ 134,759 $ 156,039 Acceptance Now 1,290 4,940 Mexico 5,330 6,209 Total held for rent rental merchandise, net $ 141,379 $ 167,188 (in thousands) September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 Assets by segment Core U.S. $ 709,074 $ 776,296 Acceptance Now 306,553 350,970 Mexico 30,747 33,529 Franchising 3,899 3,802 Total segments 1,050,273 1,164,597 Corporate 301,820 256,184 Total assets $ 1,352,093 $ 1,420,781

Loss Per Common Share (Tables)

Loss Per Common Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Loss Per Common Share	Summarized basic and diluted earnings per common share were calculated as follows: Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, (in thousands, except per share data) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Numerator: Net earnings (loss) $ 12,918 $ (12,599 ) $ 6,828 $ (28,171 ) Denominator: Weighted-average shares outstanding 53,508 53,306 53,455 53,272 Effect of dilutive stock awards (1) 1,404 — 946 — Weighted-average dilutive shares 54,912 53,306 54,401 53,272 Basic earnings (loss) per common share $ 0.24 $ (0.24 ) $ 0.13 $ (0.53 ) Diluted earnings (loss) per common share $ 0.24 $ (0.24 ) $ 0.13 $ (0.53 ) Anti-dilutive securities excluded from diluted loss per common share: Anti-dilutive restricted share units — 635 — 635 Anti-dilutive performance share units 211 784 211 784 Anti-dilutive stock options 1,417 3,103 1,672 3,103 (1) There was no dilutive effect to the loss per common share for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 due to the net loss incurred for respective periods.

Basis of Presentation Basis o_2

Basis of Presentation Basis of Presentation (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Jan. 01, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Estimated cash to be received by shareholders, per share	$ 15		$ 15
Accrued Liabilities	$ (311,277)		$ (311,277)		$ (299,683)	$ (298,018)
Deferred tax liability	119,288		119,288		86,727	87,081
Total Liabilities	(1,068,347)		(1,068,347)		(1,149,649)	(1,148,338)
Retained earnings	804,260		804,260		797,432	798,743
Total Stockholders' Equity	283,746		283,746		271,132	$ 272,443
Royalty income and fees	3,265	$ 1,996	10,428	$ 6,177
Total revenues	644,942	643,965	1,998,715	2,063,586
Gross profit	407,740	412,465	1,268,604	1,307,661
Other store expenses	149,326	171,995	492,129	546,485
Total operating expenses	382,108	420,910	1,226,091	1,315,827
Operating profit (loss)	25,632	(8,445)	42,513	(8,166)
Earnings (loss) before income taxes	15,481	(19,721)	10,607	(43,956)
Income tax expense (benefit)	2,563	(7,122)	3,779	(15,785)
Net earnings (loss)	12,918	$ (12,599)	6,828	$ (28,171)
Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Accrued Liabilities	(2,541)		(2,541)		(1,665)
Deferred tax liability	407		407		354
Total Liabilities	(2,134)		(2,134)		(1,311)
Retained earnings	2,134		2,134		1,311
Total Stockholders' Equity	2,134		2,134		$ 1,311
Royalty income and fees	(1,129)		(2,171)
Total revenues	(1,129)		(2,171)
Gross profit	(1,129)		(2,171)
Other store expenses	(1,068)		(3,047)
Total operating expenses	(1,068)		(3,047)
Operating profit (loss)	(61)		876
Earnings (loss) before income taxes	(61)		876
Income tax expense (benefit)	(10)		53
Net earnings (loss)	(51)		823
Calculated under Revenue Guidance in Effect before Topic 606 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Accrued Liabilities	(308,736)		(308,736)
Deferred tax liability	119,695		119,695
Total Liabilities	(1,066,213)		(1,066,213)
Retained earnings	806,394		806,394
Total Stockholders' Equity	285,880		285,880
Royalty income and fees	2,136		8,257
Total revenues	643,813		1,996,544
Gross profit	406,611		1,266,433
Other store expenses	148,258		489,082
Total operating expenses	381,040		1,223,044
Operating profit (loss)	25,571		43,389
Earnings (loss) before income taxes	15,420		11,483
Income tax expense (benefit)	2,553		3,832
Net earnings (loss)	$ 12,867		$ 7,651

Revenues Revenues (Details)

Revenues Revenues (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Rentals and fees	$ 552,580	$ 552,194	$ 1,679,697	$ 1,723,019
Merchandise sales	67,141	67,566	239,487	266,061
Installment sales	15,681	17,276	49,459	51,690
Other	2,140	2,257	6,995	7,428
Total store revenues	637,542	639,293	1,975,638	2,048,198
Merchandise sales	4,135	2,676	12,649	9,211
Royalty income and fees	3,265	1,996	10,428	6,177
Total revenues	644,942	643,965	1,998,715	2,063,586
Rental purchase agreements [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Deferred revenue	39,400		39,400		$ 41,100
Other product plans [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Deferred revenue	2,800		2,800		3,000
Franchise fees [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Deferred revenue	2,700		2,700		$ 1,700
Core Us [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Rentals and fees	403,483		1,226,233
Merchandise sales	30,135		106,828
Installment sales	15,681		49,459
Other	2,021		6,561
Total store revenues	451,320		1,389,081
Merchandise sales	0		0
Royalty income and fees	0		0
Total revenues	451,320	442,763	1,389,081	1,390,687
Acceptance Now [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Rentals and fees	137,061		418,684
Merchandise sales	36,264		130,347
Installment sales	0		0
Other	113		404
Total store revenues	173,438		549,435
Merchandise sales	0		0
Royalty income and fees	0		0
Total revenues	173,438	184,293	549,435	622,160
Mexico [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Rentals and fees	12,036		34,780
Merchandise sales	742		2,312
Installment sales	0		0
Other	6		30
Total store revenues	12,784		37,122
Merchandise sales	0		0
Royalty income and fees	0		0
Total revenues	12,784	12,237	37,122	35,351
Franchising [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Rentals and fees	0		0
Merchandise sales	0		0
Installment sales	0		0
Other	0		0
Total store revenues	0		0
Merchandise sales	4,135		12,649
Royalty income and fees	3,265		10,428
Total revenues	$ 7,400	$ 4,672	$ 23,077	$ 15,388

Receivables and Allowance for_3

Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Receivables [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable, Gross	$ 69,444		$ 73,990
Receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $4,247 and $4,167 in 2018 and 2017, respectively	65,197		69,823
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Bad debt expense	10,372	$ 11,051	15,702
Accounts written off	(10,740)		(15,791)
Recoveries	448		663
Allowance for doubtful accounts	4,247		4,167	$ 3,593
Installment sales receivable [Member]
Receivables [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable, Gross	51,477		55,516
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Allowance for doubtful accounts	3,000		3,600
Trade and notes receivables [Member]
Receivables [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable, Gross	17,967		18,474
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 1,200		$ 600

Senior Debt (Details)

Senior Debt (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense	$ 2,100			$ 2,100		$ 2,100	$ 5,200
Letters of credit, amount outstanding	92,200			92,200		92,200
Line of credit commitment fee				$ 1,100
Line of credit commitment fee percentage				0.50%
Senior credit facilities, additional amount allowed	100,000			$ 100,000		$ 100,000
Debt refinancing charges	$ 0	$ 0	$ 1,900	$ 0	$ 1,936
Debt arrangement and amendment fees			$ 5,300
Financial Covenants Ratios (Table Details) [Abstract]
Required consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio, minimum	1.10			1.10		1.10
Actual consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio	2.03			2.03		2.03
Covenants [Abstract]
Adjusted consolidated EBITDA						$ 92,500
Consolidated fixed charges						$ 45,500
Event of default-3rd party ownership % of our voting stock	35.00%			35.00%		35.00%
Event of default-not satisfied or bonded judgment in excess of	$ 50,000			$ 50,000		$ 50,000
Maximum period allowed for pending judgment to satisfy or bond (in days)	30			30		30
Minimum [Member]
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Line of credit commitment fee percentage				0.30%
Maximum [Member]
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Line of credit commitment fee percentage				0.50%
Eurodollar [Member]
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Description of variable rate basis				Eurodollar rate
Prime Rate [Member]
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Description of variable rate basis				prime
Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Debt, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$ 225,000			$ 225,000		$ 225,000
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Term loan, amount outstanding	0			0		0	48,600
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Senior credit facility, maximum amount	350,000			350,000		350,000
Revolving facility, amount outstanding	0			$ 0		0	85,000
Maturity date				Mar. 19, 2019
Covenants [Abstract]
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	$ 247,300			$ 247,300		$ 247,300
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Eurodollar [Member]
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Margin on Eurodollar rate, actual	2.75%			2.75%		2.75%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Eurodollar [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Basis margin on variable rate				1.50%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Eurodollar [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Basis margin on variable rate				3.00%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Prime Rate [Member]
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Margin on Prime Rate, actual	1.75%			1.75%		1.75%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Prime Rate [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Basis margin on variable rate				0.50%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Prime Rate [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Senior Debt (Table Details) [Abstract]
Basis margin on variable rate				2.00%
Line of Credit [Member]
Covenants [Abstract]
Unsecured line of credit, maximum facility	$ 12,500			$ 12,500		$ 12,500
Unsecured line of credit, amount outstanding	$ 0			$ 0		$ 0	$ 5,700

Senior Notes (Details)

Senior Notes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Senior Notes [Line Items]
Carrying value of senior notes	$ 542,740	$ 542,740
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense	2,100	5,200
Covenant for Debt Basket Available Under Senior Notes	20,000
Event of default for senior notes - failure of other debt payment at maturity in excess of this amount	50,000
Event of default for senior notes - not discharged, bonded or insured judgment in excess of this amount	$ 50,000
Our ownership percentage of subsidiary guarantors of senior notes	100.00%
Senior Notes Due 2020 [Member]
Senior Notes [Line Items]
Initial Borrowing in Senior Notes	$ 300,000
Portion of proceeds from senior notes used to repay outstanding term debt	200,000
Carrying value of senior notes	292,740	292,740
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense	$ 1,300	1,800
Senior notes, redemption price, percentage	101.104%
Percentage of original aggregate principle amount of senior notes included in repurchase price at change of control	101.00%
Senior Notes Due 2020 [Member] | Senior Notes, Redemption, Period One [Member]
Senior Notes [Line Items]
Senior notes, redemption price, percentage	103.313%
Senior Notes Due 2021 [Member]
Senior Notes [Line Items]
Initial Borrowing in Senior Notes	$ 250,000
Portion of proceeds from senior notes used to repay outstanding term debt	200,000
Carrying value of senior notes	250,000	250,000
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense	$ 1,700	$ 2,100
Senior notes, redemption price, percentage	101.188%
Percentage of original aggregate principle amount of senior notes included in repurchase price at change of control	101.00%
Senior Notes Due 2021 [Member] | Senior Notes, Redemption, Period One [Member]
Senior Notes [Line Items]
Senior notes, redemption price, percentage	103.563%

Fair Value (Details)

Fair Value (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Carrying value of senior notes	$ 542,740	$ 542,740
Amount of difference between fair value and carrying value	1,486	(26,405)
Senior Notes Due 2020 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Carrying value of senior notes	292,740	292,740
Amount of difference between fair value and carrying value	(1,464)	(13,905)
Senior Notes Due 2021 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Carrying value of senior notes	250,000	250,000
Amount of difference between fair value and carrying value	2,950	(12,500)
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of senior notes	544,226	516,335
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Senior Notes Due 2020 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of senior notes	291,276	278,835
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Senior Notes Due 2021 [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of senior notes	$ 252,950	$ 237,500

Other Charges (Details)

Other Charges (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended			6 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017store	Sep. 30, 2018USD ($)store	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Other Charges [Line Items]
Write-down of capitalized assets				$ 1,900
Impairment of intangible asset			$ 3,900
Total other charges	$ 6,721	$ 6,825				$ 40,665	$ 31,580
Labor reduction costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Accrued restructuring charges	2,431					2,431		$ 1,674
Lease obligation costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Accrued restructuring charges	5,844					5,844		2,105
Contract termination costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Accrued restructuring charges	0					0		0
Other miscellaneous
Other Charges [Line Items]
Accrued restructuring charges	0					0		0
2018 Cost Savings Initiatives [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Legal and advisory fees						1,900
Write-down of capitalized assets						400
Asset impairments						100
Other						1,100
2018 Cost Savings Initiatives [Member] | Labor reduction costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring cash charges						7,000
2018 Cost Savings Initiatives [Member] | Lease obligation costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring cash charges						900
2018 Cost Savings Initiatives [Member] | Contract termination costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring cash charges						6,800
2018 Store Consolidation Plan [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Pretax other charges						10,500
Asset impairments						1,500
Other						900
2018 Store Consolidation Plan [Member] | Labor reduction costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring cash charges						200
2018 Store Consolidation Plan [Member] | Lease obligation costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring cash charges						$ 7,900
2018 Store Consolidation Plan [Member] | Core Us [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Number of Stores Closed | store						129
2018 Store Consolidation Plan [Member] | Mexico [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Number of Stores Closed | store						9
2017 Acceptance Now Consolidation Plan [Member] | Acceptance Now [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Pretax other charges							16,400
Impairment of intangible asset							$ 3,900
2017 Field Support Center Restructuring Plan [Member] | Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Head count reduction as percent of total workforce							10.00%
2017 Field Support Center Restructuring Plan [Member] | Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] | Labor reduction costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring cash charges							$ 3,400
Charges and adjustments [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring cash charges						$ 25,386
Charges and adjustments [Member] | Labor reduction costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring cash charges						7,168
Charges and adjustments [Member] | Lease obligation costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring cash charges						9,303
Charges and adjustments [Member] | Contract termination costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring cash charges						6,750
Charges and adjustments [Member] | Other miscellaneous
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring cash charges						2,165
Payments [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring payments						(20,890)
Payments [Member] | Labor reduction costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring payments						(6,411)
Payments [Member] | Lease obligation costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring payments						(5,564)
Payments [Member] | Contract termination costs
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring payments						(6,750)
Payments [Member] | Other miscellaneous
Other Charges [Line Items]
Restructuring payments						(2,165)
Restructuring Charges-Total [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Accrued restructuring charges	8,275					8,275		$ 3,779
Non-Cash Charges [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Rental merchandise recoveries						(484)
Asset impairments						3,771
Other						$ 11,992
Non-Cash Charges [Member] | 2018 Hurricanes [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Other	$ 200
Non-Cash Charges [Member] | 2017 Hurricanes [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Other		1,900
Non-Cash Charges [Member] | Hurricane Harvey and Irma [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Other		1,700
Non-Cash Charges [Member] | Hurricane Maria [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Other		$ 200
Manned Location [Member] | 2017 Acceptance Now Consolidation Plan [Member] | Acceptance Now [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Number of Stores Closed | store					319
Direct Location [Member] | 2017 Acceptance Now Consolidation Plan [Member] | Acceptance Now [Member]
Other Charges [Line Items]
Number of Stores Closed | store					9

Segment Information (Details)

Segment Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 644,942	$ 643,965		$ 1,998,715	$ 2,063,586
Gross profit	407,740	412,465		1,268,604	1,307,661
Product transfer fee	2,900			9,300
Operating profit (loss)	25,632	(8,445)		42,513	(8,166)
Product transfer charge-off	500			1,700
Depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangibles	16,946	18,679		52,274	55,928
Impairment of intangible asset			$ 3,900
Capital expenditures	6,796	13,369		22,491	53,528
Rental merchandise on rent, net	634,918			634,918		$ 701,803
Rental merchandise held for rent, net	141,379			141,379		167,188
Assets	1,352,093			1,352,093		1,420,781
Core U.S. [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	451,320	442,763		1,389,081	1,390,687
Gross profit	313,771	309,779		975,231	965,739
Operating profit (loss)	43,221	23,859		115,135	79,241
Depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangibles	6,216	7,725		19,482	23,715
Capital expenditures	3,586	6,625		12,801	21,333
Rental merchandise on rent, net	378,221			378,221		408,993
Rental merchandise held for rent, net	134,759			134,759		156,039
Assets	709,074			709,074		776,296
Acceptance Now [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	173,438	184,293		549,435	622,160
Gross profit	81,586	92,088		256,441	310,451
Operating profit (loss)	26,278	10,379		70,865	49,595
Depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangibles	421	568		1,288	1,983
Capital expenditures	76	430		156	1,525
Rental merchandise on rent, net	241,044			241,044		278,443
Rental merchandise held for rent, net	1,290			1,290		4,940
Assets	306,553			306,553		350,970
Mexico [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	12,784	12,237		37,122	35,351
Gross profit	8,885	8,466		25,756	24,668
Operating profit (loss)	922	(242)		2,306	(122)
Depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangibles	222	496		839	1,549
Capital expenditures	113	56		151	103
Rental merchandise on rent, net	15,653			15,653		14,367
Rental merchandise held for rent, net	5,330			5,330		6,209
Assets	30,747			30,747		33,529
Franchising [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	7,400	4,672		23,077	15,388
Gross profit	3,498	2,132		11,176	6,803
Operating profit (loss)	522	1,032		3,687	3,565
Depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangibles	45	45		133	133
Assets	3,899			3,899		3,802
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating profit (loss)	70,943	35,028		191,993	132,279
Depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangibles	6,904	8,834		21,742	27,380
Capital expenditures	3,775	7,111		13,108	22,961
Assets	1,050,273			1,050,273		1,164,597
Corporate, Non-Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating profit (loss)	(45,311)	(43,473)		(149,480)	(140,445)
Depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangibles	10,042	9,845		30,532	28,548
Capital expenditures	3,021	$ 6,258		9,383	$ 30,567
Assets	$ 301,820			$ 301,820		$ 256,184

Stock-Based Compensation (Detai

Stock-Based Compensation (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 1,500	$ 1,100	$ 4,493	$ 2,198
Stock options granted			554,000
Performance-based restricted stock units granted			673,000
Time-vesting restricted stock units granted			490,000
Expected volatility rate, minimum			44.97%
Expected volatility rate, maximum			56.01%
Risk free interest rate, minimum			2.07%
Risk free interest rate, maximum			2.78%
Expected dividend yield			0.00%
Expected life, minimum			3 years 6 months
Expected life, maximum			5 years 9 months
Weighted average exercise price of options granted			$ 9.06
Weighted average grant date fair value of options granted			3.97
Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock units granted			8.58
Performance-based restricted stock units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock units granted			$ 9.03

Contingencies Contingencies (De

Contingencies Contingencies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018
Contingencies [Abstract]
Estimated merger professional fees		$ 15
Litigation settlement	$ 11

Loss Per Common Share (Details)

Loss Per Common Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Net earnings (loss)	$ 12,918	$ (12,599)	$ 6,828	$ (28,171)
Weighted average shares outstanding	53,508	53,306	53,455	53,272
Effect of dilutive stock awards	1,404	0	946	0
Weighted-average dilutive shares	54,912	53,306	54,401	53,272
Basic earnings (loss) per common share	$ 0.24	$ (0.24)	$ 0.13	$ (0.53)
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share	$ 0.24	$ (0.24)	$ 0.13	$ (0.53)
Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Anti-dilutive stock options	0	635	0	635
Performance-based restricted stock units [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Anti-dilutive stock options	211	784	211	784
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Anti-dilutive stock options	1,417	3,103	1,672	3,103