Short answer. MATCH (Member Alert to Control High-risk Merchants) is a Mastercard database of merchants whose accounts were terminated for specific reasons, such as excessive chargebacks or fraud. Acquirers check it when you apply. A listing usually remains for five years, but some merchants can still get processing from acquirers who accept higher risk, with honest disclosure.
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Why merchants are added
- Excessive chargebacks
- Fraud or suspected fraud
- Card network rule violations
- Bankruptcy or financial problems in some cases
- PCI data compromise
How to find out
You cannot search the list yourself. Ask the terminating processor or bank which reason code was used, in writing.
Removing a listing
Listings can be removed when the acquirer that added you made an error or agrees to remove it. Removal for accurate listings is rare.
Options while listed
Some acquirers work with MATCH-listed merchants under reserves and closer monitoring. Never hide a listing on an application.
FAQs
Can Stripe or PayPal add me to MATCH?
The acquiring bank behind the processor can report terminations to MATCH.
How long does MATCH last?
Generally five years from listing.
Can I open an account under a new company?
If the same owners are behind it, applications usually ask about principals, and hiding them is misrepresentation.
Official sources