R52

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High-Priority Return Code

This ACH return code applies specifically to RCK (Represented Check Entry) transactions when attempting to electronically re-present a bounced check. R52 occurs when the customer has proactively requested their bank to place a stop payment order on the original check that is now being electronically re-presented. This indicates the customer has intentionally blocked the check from being processed.

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Error message: "The RDFI determines that a stop payment order has been placed on the item to which the RCK entry relates."

What Causes ACH Return Code R52?

The R52 ACH return code means "Stop Payment on Item Related to RCK Entry" and indicates that a customer has placed a stop payment order on the original paper check that is being electronically re-presented through a Represented Check Entry (RCK). When a customer places a stop payment order with their bank, they are requesting that the financial institution prevent a specific check from being processed, regardless of whether it's presented physically or electronically.

This return occurs when a merchant attempts to use RCK to electronically re-present a bounced check, but the customer has already instructed their bank to stop payment on that specific check. Customers may request stop payments for various reasons including fraud concerns, disputes about goods or services, insufficient funds to cover the payment, or simply changing their mind about the transaction. Unlike other RCK return codes that relate to eligibility or technical issues, R52 represents a deliberate customer action to block the payment.

Can You Retry R52 Payments?

You cannot retry R52 payments using the same RCK method because the customer has specifically instructed their bank to prevent this check from being processed. The stop payment order remains in effect and will block any future attempts to process the same check electronically. You must contact the customer to understand why they placed the stop payment and arrange alternative payment methods if they still wish to complete the transaction.

Common Causes

Customer disputes the goods or services received and stopped payment

Customer placed stop payment due to insufficient funds to avoid overdraft fees

Fraud concerns prompted customer to stop payment on all outstanding checks

Customer changed their mind about the purchase after writing the check

Payment was made in error and customer wants to prevent processing

Key Information

Return timeframe: Must be available to ODFI by opening of business on banking day following 60th calendar day after settlement

Only applies to RCK (Represented Check Entry) transactions

Cannot be resolved by retrying same payment method

Requires customer communication and alternative payment arrangements

Indicates intentional customer action to block payment

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How to Respond to an R52 Code

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An R52 return requires direct communication with the customer since they have intentionally blocked the check payment and may need to resolve underlying issues before proceeding.

When Your Customer's Payment Fails

Contact Customer Immediately
Reach out to understand why they placed a stop payment on the check and whether they still intend to complete the purchase.
Investigate the Reason
Determine if the stop payment was due to a dispute, fraud concern, insufficient funds, or change of mind about the transaction.
Resolve Any Disputes
If the stop payment was due to issues with goods or services, address those concerns before requesting new payment.
Arrange Alternative Payment
If the customer still wants to complete the transaction, request payment via standard ACH authorization, credit card, wire transfer, or new check.

Email Template

Subject: Payment Issue - Your Check Stop Payment

Hi [Customer Name],

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We attempted to process your returned check electronically but received an R52 return code, indicating you've placed a stop payment order on the original check with your bank.

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We'd like to understand the reason for the stop payment and work with you to resolve any concerns. If there are issues with your order or our service, please let us know so we can address them.

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If you'd still like to complete your purchase, we can arrange payment through:

Standard ACH bank transfer authorization
Credit card payment
Wire transfer
New check

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Please contact us at your earliest convenience to discuss how we can move forward.

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Best regards,

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[Your Company Name]

When Your Payment to Vendors Fails

An R52 return on vendor payments indicates the vendor has placed a stop payment order on a check you're trying to re-present electronically. This requires direct communication to understand their concerns and arrange alternative payment methods.

Contact the vendor immediately to understand why they stopped payment on the check
Address any disputes or concerns they may have about goods, services, or payment amounts
Resolve underlying issues before requesting alternative payment methods
Arrange new payment via standard ACH authorization, wire transfer, or new physical check once issues are resolved