How to Get Off MATCH List: Your Path to Business Success

If you're running a business in the payment processing industry, being placed on the MATCH list can feel like a major setback. However, with the right approach, you can navigate your way off this list and get back to business as usual. Understanding how to get off the MATCH list and taking the necessary steps will save your business from long-term consequences and open up better opportunities for payment processing.

What Is the MATCH List?
The Member Alert to Control High-Risk (MATCH) list, maintained by Mastercard, is essentially a blacklist for businesses involved in high-risk payment processing activities. If your business lands on this list, it means acquiring banks view you as a potential risk, making it challenging to get approved for a new merchant account.

Typically, businesses end up on the MATCH list due to reasons like high chargeback ratios, fraud, or violating terms of service. While it may seem overwhelming, getting off the MATCH list is not impossible—you just need a clear strategy and persistence.

Steps to Get Off the MATCH List
Understand Why You Were Listed
The first step in getting off the MATCH list is understanding why your business was placed on it. Mastercard assigns specific reason codes, and understanding which one applies to your situation will allow you to tailor your approach effectively.

Common reasons include excessive chargebacks, fraud, non-compliance with PCI standards, or merchant agreement violations. Once you've identified the reason, you can begin to address the underlying issue.

Work with Your Acquirer
If you’re wondering how to get off the MATCH list, the most important step is working closely with the acquiring bank that placed you on the list. They are the ones who have the power to request removal from the list if you resolve the issue that caused your placement.

Communicate openly with your acquirer and show that you are taking action to address the problem. Whether it's implementing better fraud prevention measures, reducing chargebacks, or improving PCI compliance, demonstrating your commitment to correcting the situation is essential.

Fix the Underlying Problem
Once you’ve identified the reason for your listing, focus on solving the core issue. For example, if chargebacks are the problem, you should implement better customer service practices and educate your clients about the process to avoid misunderstandings.
If you need help navigating how to get off the MATCH list, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist in clearing your business's name and securing your payment processing future!