Code 51: Promotional Allowance Display/Fixture Allowance (PA)

What is Deduction Code 51?

A promotional allowance is given on certain products for a specified period of time or for all POs written with a supplier. A code 51 occurs when this allowance is listed on the supplier agreement but not included on an invoice. 

How to Prevent Valid Code 51s

• Code 51s would only be triggered when there is an allowance listed on your PO and it is not listed on the invoice. Because these are only triggered when an allowance is given on your PO, Walmart tends to be difficult about disputing them except for a specific scenario. You should review your allowances before shipping your PO.
• Check with your EDI provider to make sure applicable allowances are being included on invoices.

Can Code 51s be Disputed?

Code 51s can be disputed through the dispute portal if you can prove that the allowance was actually given on the invoice. 

The common scenario for invalid code 51s is that your Supplier Agreement states that an allowance is supposed to be given off-invoice, but your EDI provider is actually giving the allowance off-line-item. In this scenario, the correct dollar amount is being withheld from the invoice, just from the wrong place. Disputing through the dispute portal and showing that the correct amount was already withheld can often overturn the deduction.

How to Dispute Invalid Code 51s

Dispute portal

***Note
**Allowances are negotiated terms included in the supplier agreement or purchase order and will not be reviewed for repayment through the dispute portal. These deductions must be initiated with supporting documentation and approved by your buyer.