How to Get Off the Terminated Merchant File (TMF) Match List

If your business has been placed on the Terminated Merchant File (TMF) Match List, it can feel like an insurmountable obstacle. This industry blacklist, commonly referred to as the Match List, prevents businesses from securing a new merchant account, which is essential for accepting credit card payments. But don't lose hope — understanding how to get off the Match List is the first step to recovering your business.

What is the TMF Match List?

The Terminated Merchant File (TMF) Match List, maintained by credit card companies such as Mastercard, is a record of merchants who have had their accounts terminated due to fraud, excessive chargebacks, or other violations of payment processing rules. When a business is added to this list, it's essentially flagged as high-risk. Most banks and processors avoid offering merchant accounts to these businesses, leaving them unable to accept credit card payments.

Unfortunately, being on the Match List can last up to five years, making it difficult for affected merchants to conduct business during this time. But the good news is that with the right approach, it’s possible to be removed from this list.

How Can You Get Off the Match List?

While it may seem daunting, getting off the Terminated Merchant File Match List is possible with careful action and professional help. Here are a few steps that can guide you through the process:

Understand the Reason for Listing
The first step is to identify why your business was placed on the Match List. Common reasons include excessive chargebacks, fraud, or violations of merchant processing agreements. Reaching out to your previous payment processor and reviewing any correspondence can give you a clear understanding of the issue.

Address the Problem
Once you’ve identified the issue, it’s crucial to address it. If your business was flagged for excessive chargebacks, implementing a solid chargeback management system can help. Fraudulent activities should be handled swiftly, and you may need to prove that any issues have been resolved or that your business practices have improved since the termination.

Contact Your Previous Payment Processor
In some cases, getting off the Match List may involve negotiating with the payment processor that placed you there. If you can prove that the issue leading to your termination has been resolved, the processor may agree to request your removal from the list. This process can be time-consuming but is one of the most direct ways to clear your name.

Work with a High-Risk Payment Processor
While you work to get off the Match List, your business still needs to function. Consider working with a high-risk payment processor who is willing to provide merchant services despite your listing. These processors specialize in assisting businesses that are on the Match List, offering solutions while you address the underlying issues.

How Long Does it Take to Be Removed?

Typically, a business can remain on the Match List for up to five years, but with the right steps, it is possible to shorten this duration. If you successfully address the issues and negotiate with your payment processor, you could be removed from the list much sooner.

Call Us Now
If you’ve been placed on the TMF Match List and need assistance, don’t wait. Contact us now for expert guidance on how to resolve the issue and get your business off the list. Our team specializes in helping businesses overcome these obstacles, so you can get back to growing your business.

Take control of your business’s future today — reach out and let us help you with a clear path forward!