Merchant category codes (MCCs) are four-digit codes assigned to businesses based on their industry or type of service.
Here are some examples of MCCS:
- 5815 – Digital Goods Media – Books, Movies, Digital Artwork/Images, Music
- 7392 – Management, Consulting, and Publish Relations Services
- 7997 – Membership Clubs (Sports, Recreation, Athletic), Country Clubs, and Private Golf Courses
Card networks use MCCs to determine interchange fees, fraud risk levels, and eligibility for certain card programs. Each MCC is linked to a broader category like retail, travel, or education. Incorrect MCC assignment can affect your fees and fraud profile.
Your MCC impacts how transactions are evaluated by issuers and networks. AltoPay ensures your MCC matches your actual business model so you receive the correct pricing and risk classification. If your business changes focus, you may need to request a code update.
NOTE: We’ve created a database that lists all available MCCs. To learn more about your business’s code, check our MCC database.
For more than a decade, Jessica Velasco has been a thought leader in the payments industry. She aims to provide readers with valuable, easy-to-understand resources.
