Big Lots’ bankruptcy could close 64 stores across Pa.
From staff reports
BURNHAM — With the fate of one of the Juniata River Valley’s newest box stores looming, Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry is advising consumers to make their final purchases with a credit card so they can dispute purchases, if the need arises.
In a news release from Henry’s office regarding one of the nation’s largest closeout retailers, she noted that Pennsylvania could see 64 stores close as a result of Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings.
Henry offered the following guidance to consumers who could be making their final purchases at the retailer in coming week:
• Check the store’s return and refund policies
• Check the store’s gift card and rewards policies
• Prior to purchase, confirm inventory if making a “buy-online-pickup-in-store”
A federal bankruptcy court previously authorized Big Lots to conduct going-out-of-business sales at all of its remaining stores, which commenced Dec. 20, 2024.
The bankruptcy court has established an amended deadline of Friday, Jan. 31 for consumers, who may have claims against Big Lots, to file a proof of claim.
Consumers can file a Proof of Claim electronically by going to the Delaware Bankruptcy Court’s website at https://www.deb.uscourts.gov/claims-information or by going to the bankruptcy administrator’s website at https://cases.ra.kroll.com/biglots/EPOC-Index.
Consumers should consult with a private attorney to ensure that their rights are preserved in the bankruptcy proceeding or if they have additional questions about their rights under the bankruptcy proceeding.
Consumers who have been impacted by the closure of Big Lots should submit a complaint to the Bureau of Consumer Protection online or they may call our Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-441-2555. Our office will update consumers who have filed a complaint on the status of the bankruptcy matter.