DEFINITION
MCC 7299: Miscellaneous Personal Services
MCC Database / 7299: Miscellaneous Personal Services
Every merchant is assigned a merchant category code (MCC) — a four-digit number used by card networks to classify the primary business activity. MCCs determine how transactions are processed, how fees are structured, and how risk is assessed.
Let’s take a closer look at MCC 7299.
What is MCC 7299?
MCC 7299 applies to businesses offering a wide range of personal services that don’t fall under any more specific code. This includes services such as body piercing, tattoo parlors, animal grooming and boarding, virtual assistants, online coaching, and other unique one-off personal services. Essentially, it’s the catch‑all category for unique or less common personal service offerings.
Is MCC 7299 considered high risk?
MCC 7299 is generally not pre‑classified as high risk, but the actual risk can vary significantly depending on your specific service.
Since MCC 7299 spans multiple business types, chargeback and fraud exposure can differ dramatically — from low‑risk services like dog grooming to higher‑risk ones like online coaching services.
The lack of clarity in this category means some processors and acquirers may exercise additional due diligence, especially if history shows disputes or chargebacks tied to your service type.
To manage this:
- Monitor chargeback levels closely and watch for dispute patterns.
- Use detailed descriptors that clearly explain your business to customers.
- Implement fraud management tools, such as CVV, AVS, and 3D Secure.
- Implement chargeback management tools, such as prevention alerts and RDR.
Does MCC 7299 have special fees or pricing?
MCC 7299 generally encounters standard retail or service interchange rates, but pricing may vary:
- Higher-than-average chargeback history can lead to account reserves or surcharge tiers.
- Card‑not‑present models, such as booking online, can increase fraud risk and thus cost.
- Distinctive or high liability services may prompt stricter terms or higher fees.
Can I have multiple MCCs if I offer multiple services?
Yes, if your operations are truly separate — different brands, business locations, websites, or merchant accounts can justify unique MCCs.
All services under one DBA or single merchant account should use MCC 7299 — even if they include distinct offerings.
What are some similar MCCs?
Merchants in related personal or business service categories might fit better under these more-specific MCCs:
These help clarify classification if your services have a more defined focus.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What else do I need to know about MCCs?
Are MCCs the same across all card networks and acquirers?
Often yes, but it’s not guaranteed. Networks, acquirers, and processors may all interpret your primary business differently.
Who decides my MCC?
Your processor or acquiring bank makes the determination during onboarding, selecting the category most aligned with your principal business activity.
How do I know what my MCC is?
Your chosen MCC appears on your merchant account paperwork, VAR sheet, and often within processor reports or portals. If you’re unsure, request confirmation from your provider.
Does my MCC affect my interchange rate?
Absolutely. MCCs influence interchange categories, and therefore, the rates you pay. High-risk or specialized sectors often carry higher fees.
Can my MCC affect my ability to process payments?
Yes. Certain MCCs can trigger extra scrutiny, reserves, or even account denial, depending on acquirer or processor policies.
How often can my MCC change?
Your MCC generally remains the same unless your primary business shifts. Reclassification requires supporting documents such as marketing materials, websites, or processing history.
What happens if I’m misclassified with the wrong MCC?
Submit documentation showing your actual business activity so your processor, acquirer, or solution provider can request a change.
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.
