What is a merchant category code (MCC)?
A Merchant Category Code (MCC) is a 4-digit code assigned to businesses by credit card networks to classify the type of goods or services they sell. MCCs are used for everything from interchange fees to rewards programs. If you ever wondered why some purchases earn more cashback or points than others, it’s probably because of the MCC attached to the transaction.
For reference, a restaurant and a gas station will have different MCCs. The different codes are how credit card companies know to offer higher rewards for dining rather than for fueling up. These codes also impact tax reporting, chargeback management, regulatory compliance, and other parts of the business. When businesses understand and confirm their MCC, they can avoid unnecessary fees and make the most of their payment processing setup.
Key Points
- Merchant Category Codes (MCCs) are 4-digit codes credit card networks use to classify businesses by industry. These codes affect how transactions are processed, fees are calculated, and rewards are applied.
- MCCs impact everything from credit card rewards to tax reporting and processing fees.
How to find a merchant category code
Finding your MCC isn’t always easy, but there are a few ways to check:
- Credit Card Statements – Some credit card companies list MCCs on transaction details. If you look at past purchases, you might see the corresponding code.
- Processor or Bank – If you’re a business owner, your payment processor or bank can give you your assigned MCC. This is important because an incorrect MCC could mean higher processing fees or lost rewards opportunities.
- Visa & Mastercard MCC Lists – Both Visa and Mastercard publish MCC lists that categorize businesses by industry. Searching these lists can help you find the code for different types of merchants.
- IRS Guidelines – Some MCCs are used for tax purposes, and the IRS has information on certain codes for business expenses and deductions.
Contact your payment processor if you’re a business owner and think your MCC is wrong. An incorrect MCC could mean paying too much in fees or missing out on industry-specific benefits.
Popular merchant category codes
Different industries have specific MCCs assigned to them. Here are some commonly used ones:
Restaurants & Food Services
- MCC 5812 – Restaurants and eating places
- MCC 5814 – Fast food restaurants
- MCC 5815 – Digital games and software (includes online food ordering)
- MCC 5816 – Digital goods (music, books, videos)
- MCC 5818 – Digital content subscriptions
Retail & General Merchandise
- MCC 5399 – General merchandise stores
- MCC 5411 – Grocery stores and supermarkets
- MCC 5999 – Miscellaneous retail stores
Financial & Money Services
- MCC 4829 – Wire transfers and money orders
- MCC 6051 – Crypto transactions
Gas & Transportation
- MCC 5542 – Fuel stations with convenience stores
Telecommunications & Digital Services
- MCC 4814 – Telecommunication services (phone, internet, and cable)
- MCC 4899 – Cable, satellite, and streaming services
Business & Professional Services
- MCC 7399 – Business services (miscellaneous)
Healthcare & Medical
- MCC 8099 – Medical services (miscellaneous)
Marketing & Subscriptions
- MCC 5968 – Direct marketing (continuity/subscription merchants)
Merchant Category Codess can help businesses optimize payment processing costs and help cardholders maximize their benefits. Whether you’re running a restaurant, a medical practice, or an online store, understanding how your business will be classified in the eyes of the credit card networks is important to know.
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