Birmingham, AL (WIAT) - The credit crunch is impacting retail sales... And that's forcing retailers to bring back layaway programs to get those dollars rolling in.

Dr. Darin White is an Associate Professor of Marketing at Samford Universities Brock School of Business.

Dr. White explains that credit card use is declining. "It's become much harder to get credit from banks. Stores have realized that a very large part of their market needs that service again."

For the first time in five years Walmart is offering a limited layaway program through December 16th.

Walmart spokeswoman Tara Raddohl says, “Customers can put any toy, bike, or electronic item on layaway... They just have to have a layaway basket total of $50 and each item has to be at least $15."

And customers like Mike Erskin are excited to have a way to ease their holiday shopping pain.

"It's easier to spread the payment out... Spread it out over three or four months verses trying to do it all at one time."

But layaway is more than just a way to pay as you go... Dr. White says it's also a way to ensure your child doesn't miss out.

"It also allows them to purchase those items now before those items are sold out where as when they finally have the money to purchase them. Those items may be gone. Something they may really want for their children."

For a list of retailers and their layaway policies click here.