DEFINITION
MCC 7995: Betting, Wagering, Lottery, Gambling Transactions
MCC Database / 7995: Betting, Wagering, Lottery, Gambling Transactions
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 7995.
What is MCC 7995?
MCC 7995 covers businesses with gambling-related transactions including real-money wagering and gaming services.
- Websites that offer online slot machines, poker, roulette, blackjack, or a full-service casino platform
- Online sportsbooks where users place wagers on sports or other activities
- Websites for state lotteries and other licensed resellers of lottery tickets
- Online poker rooms hosting real-money tournaments and games
- Fantasy sports platforms that charge entry fees and provide payouts
Businesses would not use MCC 7995 if no real money is wagered — like free-to-play fantasy sports, educational poker sites, or social casinos.
Is MCC 7995 considered high risk?
Yes — this MCC is considered high risk.
Gambling transactions are heavily monitored by card networks (Mastercard, Visa, etc.). These transactions face increased fraud exposure, regulatory scrutiny, and may be subject to declines from issuing banks.
Metrics like dispute rates and approval patterns are closely tracked, and even seemingly low-risk operations may be placed in a monitoring program.
Does MCC 7995 require a license?
Absolutely — compliance is critical.
- You must be licensed in all operating jurisdictions (physical or online).
- Registering with card network programs is mandatory.
- AML/KYC rules are often stricter for gambling, requiring enhanced due diligence.
- Local regulations may mandate age verification, responsible gaming tools, and user protections.
Processors and acquirers will need proof of licensing and compliance adherence as part of onboarding.
Does MCC 7995 have special fees or pricing?
Yes. If you operate a business with MCC 7995, expect the following:
- Higher interchange fees
- Mandatory High Risk Registration Fee (paid to the card schemes by the acquirer on your behalf)
- Manual underwriting or monthly review fees
These elevated fees reflect the increased processing risk and regulatory overhead.
Can I have multiple MCCs if I offer multiple services?
Yes, but only if services operate under completely separate brands and merchant accounts.
Any gambling-related transaction processed online or in-person must use MCC 7995 — regardless of your other business lines. Mixing gambling with other services under the same merchant account forces the use of this MCC for all transactions.
What are some similar MCCs?
The following are some related categories that are similar to MCC 7995.
Depending on the solutions you provide, your business may be considered for one of the above MCCs instead of 7995.
Ready to Handle Gambling Transactions with Compliance and Flexibility?
AltoPay offers flexible, cost-effective, and compliant payment solutions tailored for gambling and wagering businesses — supporting online entities with full risk controls.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What else do I need to know about MCCs?
Does this MCC apply to online lottery or charity raffles?
Yes. Any form of monetary chance-based transaction qualifies under 7995, regardless of the channel.
Are peer-to-peer betting platforms included?
Yes. Platforms facilitating bets between users still fall under this MCC due to the wagering nature.
Are MCCs the same across all card networks and acquirers?
Each card network has its own list of MCCs; however, the definitions are pretty standard. What differs is processor and acquirer interpretation. So a business with an MCC at one acquirer might have a different MCC with another acquirer.
Who decides my MCC?
Your acquiring bank or payment processor will choose and assign a code while onboarding your new merchant account. Codes reflect your primary business activity.
How do I know what my MCC is?
Check the documents provided by your processor or acquirer when your account was approved. Look for a VAR sheet, registration form, onboarding sheet, or MID credential form. You can also check your payment processing portal.
If you can’t locate your MCC, reach out to your acquirer or processor for assistance.
Does my MCC affect my interchange rate?
Absolutely — especially with high-risk codes like 7995. MCCs can influence all processing fees, including interchange.
Can my MCC affect my ability to process payments?
Yes — especially high-risk codes like 7995. Processors and acquirers might decline all merchants with certain MCCs. Businesses that are approved will likely have volume restrictions, compliance expectations, and reserve accounts.
How often can my MCC change?
Your MCC stays the same until your primary business activity changes significantly. If your business needs to be reclassified, you’ll have to submit a formal request — along with supporting documentation — to your processor or acquirer.
What happens if I’m misclassified with the wrong MCC?
Misclassification can cause unexpected fees, denied transactions, and compliance issues. So it’s important to make sure your business is classified correctly. If you think the wrong MCC has been assigned, ask your processor or acquirer to reconsider.
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.
