A tax refund is money the government returns to taxpayers when they overpay their taxes (1). Since tax refunds are seasonal, they influence how people spend—some use them to shop more, while others save or cover essential expenses (2). In this article, we’ll explore how customer shopping trends shift in response to tax refunds and other economic factors. We’ll also look at how lease-to-own can help you serve customers through these changes, providing a lease-renewal payment option when spending habits and needs fluctuate. 

Historical Tax Refund and Similar Customer Shopping Trends

Tax refunds vary each year, and recent data shows a decline (2). In the past, people have used their refunds for saving, home improvements, and other expenses (3). The timing of refunds affects retail sales, especially in home goods and technology. Many customers use their refunds for big transactions (4). Customer spending habits shift throughout the year based on economic conditions and disposable income, influencing how and when they choose to shop (5) (6). 

Seasonal Peaks in Retail and Customer Shopping Trends 

Retailers experience multiple shifts throughout the year. For example, tax refunds influence how and when customers shop.

Here are a few other examples: 

1. Macroeconomic factors: Customer shopping patterns fluctuate in response to income stability, inflation, and broader economic conditions, which may affect how customers shop (6). 

2. Back-to-School Shopping: Parents and students prepare for the school year, prioritizing a range of products, including furnishing for new apartments (7). 

3. Holiday Shopping Season: Peak spending occurs from November to December, as customers actively shop and take advantage of seasonal discounts (8). 

The Role of Lease-to-Own in Seasonal Shopping 

A great shopping experience attracts new customers. Lease-to-own helps by providing access to essential products for those with less-than-perfect credit. Nearly half of U.S. consumers are considered non-prime and often look for an alternative to financing (9). As you look for a transaction solution that caters to a wider range of budgets and life situations, consider lease-to-own. With lease-renewal payments, you can offer your customers a budget-friendly shopping option.  

Preparing for Seasonal Shopping Trends 

Aligning with seasonal shopping trends and offering solutions like Acima Leasing can help you better serve a diverse customer base. By providing lease-to-own, you can engage more customers (10) while enhancing your retail growth and customer experience strategies. Discover how lease-to-own can support your business and explore Acima Leasing solutions today. 

FAQ: How Acima Leasing Supports Retailers 

How can Acima Leasing help retailers attract more customers? 

Retailers can reach more customers by offering lease-to-own as an alternative to financing. This allows shoppers to get the products they need with lease-renewal payments. 

What makes Acima Leasing a trusted partner for retailers? 

Acima Leasing is a sub-brand of Rent-A-Center, Inc., a company with a strong history of business growth. Retailers benefit from working with an established and stable lease-to-own provider. 

How does Acima Leasing improve the customer experience? 

Acima Leasing offers a simple lease-to-own process from application to completion. Customers can easily shop, complete their lease, and return for future transactions. 

Does Acima Leasing provide educational resources for retailers? 

Yes, Acima Leasing provides materials to help retailers educate employees and customers. This ensures clear communication and a better understanding of lease-to-own. 

How does Acima Leasing support eCommerce retailers? 

Acima Leasing offers API integrations and shopping cart plug-ins for online retailers. This creates a smoother checkout experience for lease-to-own customers. 

Sources: 

1. Tax Foundation. (n.d.). Tax refund.

2. CNBC. (2025, February 25). Average IRS tax refund.

3. National Retail Federation (NRF). (n.d.). Holiday data and trends: Tax returns.

4. Greer, G., & Zdinak, M. (2024, April 17). Tax refunds released: US retail sales may get a boost.

5. Chatterjee, D. (2024, August 28). Consumer spending trends and what it means for your brand.

6. McNamara, M., Stanwick, K., & Raman, M. (2024, June 18). 8 reasons why consumer spending patterns change.

7. Davies, K. (2025, February 13). Consumer spending events by expected spend in the U.S..

8. National Retail Federation (NRF). (2025, January 16). NRF says holiday season was a notable success as customers came out to spend.

9. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). (2021). Consumer credit card market report.

10. PYMNTS. (2022). Rent-A-Center sparks rethink of rent-to-own model.