| Cover | Feb. 04, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 4, 2021 |
| Entity File Number | 001-38047 |
| Entity Registrant Name | RENT A CENTER INC DE |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000933036 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 45-0491516 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 5501 Headquarters Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Plano |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 75024 |
| City Area Code | 972 |
| Local Phone Number | 801-1100 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value |
| Trading Symbol | RCII |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
