EXHIBIT 23.1

               CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS


We have issued our report dated February 11, 2002, accompanying the consolidated
financial statements and included in the Annual Report of Rent-A-Center, Inc.
and Subsidiaries on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001. We hereby
consent to the incorporation by reference of said report in the Registration
Statement of Rent-A-Center, Inc. and Subsidiaries on post effective Amendment
No. 2 to Form S-3 (333-77985).


/s/ Grant Thornton LLP


Dallas, Texas

January 22, 2003