Merchant Category Code (MCC) Lookup
A free MCC code lookup: search the standard four-digit merchant category codes by number, by official category title, or by the words you would normally use to describe your business. The list shown is the same one used in our own onboarding form.
Search the code list
Showing the first 40 of 981 codes. Start typing to narrow the list.
How to use the code you find
An MCC describes what a business sells. It is assigned by the acquirer during underwriting, based on the goods or services you actually deliver, and it follows your merchant account rather than being something you choose freely. This lookup helps you find the code that best describes your activity so you can discuss it accurately.
The entries above show only what the published code list contains: the four-digit code, its official title and its broader grouping. We deliberately do not attach risk labels, acceptance signals or approval likelihoods to codes here; those are set per acquirer and per scheme programme, and vary by country and licence.
If more than one code could plausibly fit, that itself is worth raising early: the code affects interchange, scheme rules and monitoring, so an inaccurate one causes problems later. The MCC codes guide explains how codes are assigned and why they matter, the MCC 7995 guide covers the betting and gambling code, and the merchant account guide covers where the code fits into an application.
Common questions
What is an MCC code?
A merchant category code (MCC) is a four-digit number that classifies the type of goods or services a business sells. Card schemes and acquirers use it for interchange, scheme rules, monitoring and reporting. The codes follow the ISO 18245 standard.
How do I find my MCC code?
If you already take card payments, your code is set on your merchant account. It often appears on your processing statements or in your provider's dashboard, and your provider can confirm it. If you are applying for the first time, use this MCC code lookup to find the code that best describes what you sell, then confirm it with the acquirer during onboarding.
Can I choose my own MCC?
No. The acquirer assigns the code during underwriting, based on what you actually sell. You can suggest the code you think fits, but a code that does not match your real business can lead to problems later, including a closed merchant account.
Is an MCC the same as a SIC or NAICS code?
No. SIC and NAICS codes classify industries for government statistics and company registration. MCCs are used in card payments. Some numbers look similar, but the lists are separate and a company registration code does not tell you your MCC.
Want to see which payment routes may fit your full business profile?
Your category code is one part of an application. The assessment looks at it together with your industry, company country, target markets, volume and history before we compare providers.
Check my payment optionsNothing is shared with a provider until you submit your onboarding pack. Approval is always the provider's decision.