An RMA, short for 'Return Merchandise Authorization', is a reference number often used by online, or other retailers, better track to return. Typically, once items have been approaved for a return, an RMA # will be generated, and will accompany the goods being returned to enable the receiver to efficient process the incoming returns. Typically, this process implemented to streamline the ease of returns, in order to save time, and to improve the overall quality of customer service.