Code 52

How to Fix Walmart Deduction Code 52: Volume Allowance

Code 52, or Volume Allowance (VA), is issued when a volume allowance, agreed upon when Walmart purchases large quantities of merchandise, is listed on the supplier agreement but not reflected on the invoice. A common scenario for invalid Code 52s is when the Supplier Agreement specifies an off-invoice allowance, but the EDI provider applies it off-...

Root Causes of Code 52
  • •Code 52, or Volume Allowance (VA), is issued when a volume allowance, agreed upon when Walmart purchases large quantities of merchandise, is listed on the supplier agreement but not reflected on the invoice
  • •A common scenario for invalid Code 52s is when the Supplier Agreement specifies an off-invoice allowance, but the EDI provider applies it off-line-item, leading to the correct amount being withheld but from the wrong source
  • •Valid root causes include: Purchase Order Inaccuracy, where incorrect PO information leads to discrepancies if shipped without correction; Unlisted Allowances, where allowances on the purchase order are missing from the invoice; Implicit Shipping Confirmation, where shipping on an inaccurate PO is interpreted as verification, potentially hindering future dispute attempts; Incorrect EDI Allowance Codes, which can trigger further deductions; and Allowance Calculations on Net Instead of Gross Amount, leading to unexpected deductions if allowances are not calculated on the gross amount
Required Documents for Dispute
  • Supplier Agreement
  • Invoice
  • Purchase Order
Step-by-Step Dispute Process
  1. 11. Allowance disputes can technically be submitted through APDP. However, Walmart has indicated that codes 50-59, 150, and 151 are unlikely to be approved via APDP.
  2. 22. The alternative is to attempt the dispute directly with your buyer.
  3. 33. All disputes must be initiated with supporting documentation and approved by your buyer.
How to Prevent Code 52 in the Future
  • Review POs before shipping to catch discrepancies early
  • Maintain detailed records of all buyer communications
  • Implement automated PO validation
  • Keep dispute logs to identify recurring issues
Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take Walmart to process a Code 52 dispute?

Walmart typically reviews Code 52 disputes within 30-45 days through the Accounts Payable Disputes Portal. If denied, escalate to your buyer immediately with supporting documentation.

Can I prevent Code 52 deductions before they happen?

Yes. Implement pre-shipment PO validation, maintain detailed records of buyer communications, and work with your EDI provider to ensure correct processing. Keep a dispute log to identify recurring issues.

What's the success rate for Code 52 disputes?

Code 52 disputes have varying success rates (40-70%) depending on documentation quality. Disputes succeed when you provide complete proof that the deduction was invalid.

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