Allocation workflow

  • Release version: Australia
  • Updated March 12, 2026
  • 1 minute to read

    • The allocation workflow lets the acquirer initiate pre-arbitration and arbitration for fraud and authorization disputes.

    Infographic that highlights the pre-arbitration and arbitration process in allocation workflow, which is described in the text following this image.

    1. The issuer creates a dispute for a transaction. The acquirer accepts the dispute on behalf of the merchant and closes the dispute.
    2. If the acquirer doesn't accept the dispute, they can file a pre-arbitration with the issuer. The issuer can accept the pre-arbitration and end the dispute.
    3. The issuer can reject the pre-arbitration and contest the charge by filling in a pre-arbitration response questionnaire.
    4. The acquirer can end the flow without proceeding to arbitration. Or, the acquirer can proceed with arbitration and create a case filing with Visa. Visa then receives the case, adjudicates it, and provides the final ruling.
    5. Visa provides the final ruling. The issuer or acquirer accepts the ruling and the case is closed.
    6. Either party can appeal the decision if they disagree with the ruling, provided they meet the appeal guidelines from Visa.