If you’re trying to open a new merchant account and keep running into vague rejections, you’ve probably asked yourself, “How can I check if my company is in the MATCH list?”
It’s not a fun place to be. The MATCH list (Member Alert to Control High-Risk Merchants) is a private database maintained by Mastercard. It flags businesses and owners with a risky history, like excessive chargebacks or fraud concerns.
This guide breaks down what the MATCH list is, how to check if you’re on it, and what to do if you find yourself stuck there.
What Is the MATCH List?
The MATCH list is used by payment processors and acquiring banks. It helps them avoid onboarding businesses that pose financial or legal risks.
Once you're added, you're effectively red-flagged across the payment ecosystem. The reasons vary, but they usually relate to:
- Fraud
- Excessive chargebacks
- Account violations
- Identity theft
The information stays on the list for five years. During that time, getting approved for a regular merchant account was extremely difficult.
Why the MATCH List Matters
Being on the MATCH list doesn’t mean you’re banned from processing payments. But it does mean you’ll face:
- Higher scrutiny from banks
- Rejections from most processors
- Limited access to third-party platforms
- Higher processing fees
Most businesses end up needing a specialized high-risk merchant account to keep operations going.
How to Check If Your Company Is on the MATCH List
You can’t just search for your name online. There’s no public tool where you can search for your business name.
But, there are proven ways to check if your company is in the MATCH list:
1. Ask Your Payment Processor
If your merchant account was terminated, ask your provider directly if you were added to MATCH. In many cases, they’ll tell you. In others, you’ll need to push for clarification.
2. Apply for a New Merchant Account
If you're rejected and told it’s due to a “third-party data source,” that’s often code for MATCH. Ask if the rejection was related to Mastercard MATCH.
3. Speak to a High-Risk Expert
Professionals who work in the high-risk space can often help confirm your status. Some have relationships with processors and access to databases that can indirectly reveal whether you’re listed.
What To Do If You're on the MATCH List
Step 1: Confirm the Reason Code
The MATCH list uses specific reason codes, each linked to a type of risk. Some common ones include:
- 04: Excessive chargebacks
- 05: Fraud
- 07: Program violations
- 14: Identity theft
Knowing the code helps you understand what needs fixing. For example, if chargebacks are the problem, you may need a serious chargeback prevention overhaul.
Step 2: Fix the Root Cause
Whether it’s fraud or refund abuse, start tightening your risk controls. If you’ve struggled with friendly fraud, improve how you handle returns, descriptors, and dispute responses.
Step 3: Request Removal
Only the processor that placed you on the list can remove you. If the issue is resolved—or was added in error—you can send documentation to request delisting. Keep in mind: they’re not required to remove you.
Step 4: Use a High-Risk Provider
While waiting for removal (or if removal is denied), work with a provider who accepts MATCH-listed merchants. It’s not ideal, but it keeps your business alive while you rebuild your standing.
Frequently Asked Questions About MATCH List
Can I see the MATCH list directly?
No. It’s not public. Only acquiring banks and processors can access it.
Does being on the MATCH list affect my credit?
No. It’s not tied to your personal or business credit score.
Can I still take payments while listed?
Yes, but not through most mainstream providers. You'll likely need a high-risk account with higher fees.
How long do listings last?
Five years, unless the original processor agrees to remove you earlier.
Final Thoughts
The MATCH list can be a major roadblock, but it's not a death sentence for your business. Start by confirming whether you're listed, then understand the reason code and take action. If you need to work with high-risk providers for a while, that’s okay. What matters is staying in control.
Don’t wait for more rejections to realize you’re on the list. Check now, and start resolving it before it starts costing you even more.
Seeing a Spike in Returns or Chargebacks?
That might be your early warning sign. If you’re losing revenue to disputes, fees, or chargeback fraud, it’s time to level up. Chargeblast helps you detect risk earlier, respond faster, and prevent losses before they happen. We support everything from alerts to representment, and we’re built for businesses that want to stay off lists like MATCH for good.
Want to make chargebacks a thing of the past? Book a demo below or start your Chargeblast journey today.
