Glossary/Retail Media & Commerce/Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA)
Retail Media & Commerce
Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA)
An approval and tracking number a retailer issues before a customer sends back a product for refund, exchange, or repair.
By Brandon Mina·CEO, BrandPilot AI·Updated November 2026
Short answer
A return merchandise authorization (RMA) is an approval and tracking number a retailer or manufacturer issues before a customer sends back a product. It confirms the return is accepted and links the item to a refund, exchange, or repair. RMAs help businesses control returns, track reasons, and process them efficiently.