What Is the MATCH List?
The MATCH list, or MasterCard Alert to Control High-Risk Merchants, is a shared database that payment processors use to flag and blacklist merchants. Once listed, you’ll have a hard time opening a new merchant account with any major acquiring bank.
Mastercard maintains the list, but all major card networks acknowledge it. Visa, for example, maintains a similar list (called VMAS), but MATCH is the industry’s most common reference.
You're usually added by your acquiring bank for violations like excessive chargebacks, suspected fraud, or failure to comply with regulations. There are 14 possible reason codes, and your code affects what kind of removal is possible.
Step 1: Confirm You’re Actually on the MATCH List
Most merchants only find out after being declined by another processor. But don’t rely on indirect signs. Here’s how to check if your company is in the MATCH list:
- Ask your acquiring bank or payment processor directly if you've been placed on MATCH.
- New processors may tell you during onboarding due diligence, especially if your business was previously flagged.
You can't self-check MATCH status through Mastercard as it’s only visible to acquiring banks and registered service providers.
Step 2: Identify the MATCH List Reason Code
This is key. The removal path depends entirely on the reason code tied to your listing. Here are a few examples:
- Reason Code 04: Excessive chargebacks
- Reason Code 07: Fraud
- Reason Code 12: PCI non-compliance
- Reason Code 14: Identity theft (possibly falsified merchant application)
Ask your original acquiring bank for your exact code. You are entitled to know why you were placed on the list.
Step 3: Contact Your Acquiring Bank
Once you know the code, your first action is to reach out to the bank that placed you on the list. Only they can initiate your removal.
If you’re not sure who added you, trace back your most recent processor relationship, especially the one that terminated your account.
Use a message like this when reaching out:
“I’ve confirmed I’ve been placed on the MATCH list. Can you please confirm the reason code and let me know what steps are available to appeal or resolve this listing?”
Keep your tone respectful. Escalation rarely works. Ask to speak to the risk or compliance department directly if the first rep isn’t helpful.
Step 4: Resolve the Reason (If Possible)
Some MATCH codes are removable. Others are permanent unless the bank agrees to delist you.
Codes that may be resolved:
- Code 12 (PCI Non-compliance): Provide proof of PCI compliance.
- Code 04 (Excessive Chargebacks): If it was a temporary spike and your business is stable now, the bank may agree to remove the listing.
- Code 03 (Account data compromise): If you’ve since fixed your systems, documentation may help.
Codes that are difficult to remove:
- Code 07 (Fraud) or Code 14 (Identity theft/falsified info) are much harder to challenge. You'll need to provide documentation disproving the allegation or demonstrating that it was inaccurate or resolved.
Important: Banks are not required to remove a listing even after the issue is fixed. Removal is at their discretion.
Step 5: Ask for Formal Removal (If Justified)
Once you've addressed the core issue, request a formal MATCH removal submission.
There’s no universal form. Each acquiring bank has its own process. Request it in writing:
“I’d like to request that [Bank Name] submit a removal request to Mastercard to delist my business from the MATCH database, given that [issue] has been resolved. Please let me know what documentation is required to move forward.”
Keep a dated record of all communication.
Step 6: Be Patient And Proactive
After submission, it may take 30–60 days for Mastercard to process the removal. Mastercard doesn't notify you directly. You’ll need to follow up with the bank that submitted the request.
In the meantime:
- Avoid applying for new merchant accounts under the same name or business entity. Doing so can trigger additional red flags.
- Make sure all compliance issues, chargebacks, or outstanding bank issues are fully resolved to avoid being listed again.
What If the Bank Refuses to Remove You?
If the bank doesn’t respond or declines your request:
- You can escalate to the bank’s compliance or legal team.
- Consult a merchant law attorney to help push the issue.
- Some merchants have succeeded by filing formal complaints with regulatory bodies, but this is rare and slow.
There is no time-based expiration for most MATCH codes. Unless it’s Code 12 (which may auto-expire after a year), your listing is indefinite.
Conclusion
Getting off the MATCH list isn’t easy, but it’s possible. The key is knowing the exact reason code, contacting the right people at your bank, and providing concrete proof that the issue has been fixed. Avoid the temptation to apply under a new name or processor until you're officially delisted. That can make things worse.
If chargebacks or fraud were the reason for your listing, prevention needs to be your top priority going forward.
FAQ: How to Get Off the MATCH List
What is the MATCH list?
The MATCH list is a database maintained by Mastercard that flags high-risk merchants. Acquiring banks use it to identify businesses previously terminated for risk-related reasons like fraud or excessive chargebacks.
Can I check the MATCH list myself?
No. Only acquiring banks and registered service providers have access. You’ll need to contact your bank or processor to confirm if you’ve been listed.
How long does a MATCH listing last?
Most listings are indefinite. Some, like PCI non-compliance (Code 12), may expire after 12 months. But others, such as fraud-related codes, will remain until the original bank requests removal.
Can I apply for a new merchant account while on the MATCH list?
You can try, but most processors will deny your application once they detect the MATCH listing. High-risk processors may accept you, but expect higher fees and stricter rules.
Is there a legal way to get off the MATCH list?
Yes. If you can prove the listing was a mistake or that the underlying issue has been resolved, the bank may agree to request removal. However, this is discretionary and not guaranteed.
What happens if I ignore my MATCH status?
You’ll likely keep getting denied by processors and may fall into using non-compliant or offshore services. That could create legal issues or financial instability for your business.
Get Ahead of Risk Before It Ends Your Merchant Account
Chargebacks, fraud, and risk flags can put you right back on the MATCH list—or keep you stuck there. Chargeblast helps businesses monitor chargeback ratios, prevent false claims, and resolve disputes before they spiral. If you’ve already been flagged once, don’t wait for it to happen again.
