Which of the following is not a general authorization?

The selection of sales manager's authorization for a return as the answer highlights a critical distinction between types of authorizations in the context of internal control systems. General authorizations refer to predetermined policies or rules that do not require specific individual approval for every occurrence; they are broad in nature and allow for routine transactions to be executed without the necessity for constant oversight.

In contrast, the sales manager's authorization for a return involves specific approval that must be obtained from a designated individual for each return transaction. This implies a level of oversight and control that is not characteristic of general authorizations, which typically apply to routine operations where thresholds and criteria are established in advance.

Automatic reorder points for inventory, credit limits for transactions, and a sales price list for merchandise all embody general authorizations. They are established to guide routine activities and decisions without the need for specific case-by-case approvals, thus eliminating delays and enhancing operational efficiency. These mechanisms allow transactions to proceed based on predetermined criteria, contributing to effective and efficient business operations.

This understanding highlights the importance of distinguishing between the types of authorizations used within organizations to maintain a strong internal control framework.