What Is an RA Number?

A return authorization number is a number that companies issue to authorize you to return an item. If you've received a defective or nonworking item in the mail and want to return it, you'll often have to call the company and ask for an RA number before the company will accept the return.

Significance

A company will want to make sure that you are returning the exact item you purchased. In a regular store, a customer service clerk can inspect the item and verify that it was sold in that store. However, if you are returning an item via mail, a customer service representative can't physically see what you are returning. Therefore, companies often require you to call and speak to a customer service representative to obtain an RA number for your item.

Synonyms

An RA number is also known as an RAN (return authorization number).

Obtaining an RA Number

When you call a company and ask to return an item, the customer service representative may bring up an RA number on his computer screen. The representative will want to verify that the item you are returning is the one that you initially purchased.

Returns Facility

When the item you send back is received, receiving staff will verify the RA number and use it to track the return. If you send an item without an RA number, the receiving staff may reject your package and send it back to you.

Accounting

When your returned item is accepted, the accounting staff may create a credit in their computer system for the returned item. The amount is then offset against the accounts receivable entry. The computer system may automatically create credits for returned items with RA numbers.

References

• "Wiley: IFRS Policies and Procedures"; Barry J. Epstein and Eva K. Jermakowicz; 2008
• "Wiley: GAAP Policies and Procedures"; Steven M. Bragg; 2007