Regulatory
MATCH List
Definition
MATCH List mastercard's Member Alert to Control High-risk merchants - a database of merchants terminated for cause by acquirers. Also called TMF (Terminated Merchant File). Being on MATCH severely limits ability to obtain new merchant accounts. Listings remain for 5 years. Grounds include excessive chargebacks, fraud, collusion, and illegal activity. Erroneously listed merchants can appeal for removal.
Related Terms
High-Risk Merchant
A classification by acquirers for merchants perceived as having elevated risk of chargebacks, fraud, or regulatory issues. Common high-risk verticals: gambling, forex, adult, nutraceuticals, crypto, travel, and subscription billing. Consequences include higher rates (1-3% premium), rolling reserves, volume limits, and limited acquirer options. Classification is risk assessment, not legitimacy judgment.
Chargeback Ratio
The percentage of transactions that result in chargebacks, calculated as chargebacks divided by transactions over a period. Card networks monitor this ratio closely. Visa's threshold for monitoring is 0.9%; Mastercard's is 1.0%. Exceeding thresholds triggers monitoring programs with fines and potential termination. High-risk MCCs often face stricter benchmarks. Ratio calculated monthly, with some lag for dispute timing.
Merchant Account
A bank account that enables a business to accept card payments. The merchant account holds funds from card transactions before settlement to the merchant's business bank account. Obtaining a merchant account requires underwriting by an acquirer. High-risk merchants face more scrutiny and may require specialized acquirers. Terms include processing limits, reserve requirements, and fee structures.
Need help navigating payment terminology?
We speak fluent payments. Let us translate for your business.
Talk to Us