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Infrastructure · Glossary

MCC

Also called: Merchant Category Code

An MCC (Merchant Category Code) is a 4-digit number assigned by the acquirer that classifies a merchant's business type. The MCC governs interchange rates, reserve requirements, surcharge eligibility, and whether the merchant qualifies for certain card programs (e.g. Visa Business).

Why this matters to merchants

MCCsits inside the broader system of U.S. payment processing economics that determine a merchant’s effective rate. Most operators encounter this term on their merchant statement without understanding what it controls, which is how the four hidden fees covered by our methodology slip past unnoticed.

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