What is a merchant category code? MCCs explained, and why they matter
By SendPay Business · · 2 min read
A merchant category code, or MCC, is a four-digit number that says what kind of business took a card payment. For example, 5411 is grocery stores and supermarkets. The code is set when the business's card account is opened and travels with every payment it takes.
What MCCs are used for
- Deciding some fees: certain categories pay different card rates.
- Card rewards: cashback or points for spending in certain categories.
- Card controls: blocking or allowing spending at certain kinds of business.
- Spending reports: sorting a customer's spending into groups like food or travel.
- Risk checks: some categories, such as gambling, carry extra rules.
Why it matters for a money app
If you issue cards, MCCs let you give customers spending categories, controls such as blocking gambling payments, and rewards for spending where you choose. They're one of the simplest ways to make your cards more useful than a basic debit card.
Why it matters for a business
The wrong code can mean higher fees or declined payments. If your card statements show an odd category, ask your payment provider to check the MCC on your account.
Build it
Create your own financial platform.
Pick a template, name it, brand it, preview every page before you pay. Your brand, your users, your fees.
Build my platform →Questions people ask
How do I compare card pricing quotes?
Compare a blended rate with an interchange++ quote, side by side.
Interchange++ vs blended pricing calculator →What is an interchange fee?
The part of each card payment that goes to the card issuer.
What is an interchange fee? →What is a BIN sponsor?
The licensed firm that lets a brand issue its own cards.
What is a BIN sponsor? →Can I issue my own branded cards?
Yes. SendPay card platforms, powered by licensed partners, are free to design and preview; you only pay when you publish.
Branded Visa cards →Read next
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. SendPay Business is a technology company, not a bank, and does not take deposits; regulated services on the platforms are provided by licensed partners. PayPal, Patreon and Substack are named as reference points only and are not affiliated with SendPay Business.