TMF/MATCH List Merchant Accounts

The Visa TMF (Terminated Merchant File) match list, also known as the MATCH list, is a database maintained by Visa that includes information about merchants who have been terminated or flagged for violating Visa's rules and regulations. When a merchant is added to the MATCH list, it signifies that they have had their merchant account terminated by a Visa acquirer due to specific reasons such as fraud, excessive chargebacks, or violation of Visa's operating regulations.

Being listed on the TMF match list can have significant consequences for a merchant. It can make it difficult for them to obtain new merchant accounts or payment processing services, as most acquiring banks and processors consult the list during their underwriting process. If a merchant is listed on the TMF match list, it's generally an indication to other financial institutions that there may be increased risks associated with processing transactions for that merchant. It's important to note that the MATCH list is specific to Visa, and other payment networks may have similar lists with their own criteria and databases for terminated merchants.

The Visa TMF (Terminated Merchant File) match list is a database maintained by Visa that contains information about merchants who have been terminated or flagged for violating Visa's rules and regulations. Being listed on the TMF match list can make it difficult for merchants to obtain new merchant accounts or payment processing services, as it signals to other financial institutions that there may be increased risks associated with processing transactions for that merchant.

When a merchant is placed on the MATCH (Member Alert to Control High-Risk Merchants) list or TMF (Terminated Merchant File), it can have significant implications for their ability to obtain merchant accounts and payment processing services. Here's what happens:

• Difficulty in Obtaining Merchant Accounts: Being listed on the MATCH or TMF list can make it challenging for a merchant to obtain new merchant accounts. Most acquiring banks and payment processors consult these lists during their underwriting process. If a merchant's name appears on the list, it raises red flags and indicates a higher risk associated with processing transactions for that merchant. Consequently, many financial institutions may be hesitant to provide them with payment processing services.
• Limited Processing Options: Merchants on the MATCH or TMF list may find their payment processing options severely restricted. It becomes challenging to find a reputable provider willing to take on the perceived risk associated with the merchant's business. This limitation can impact their ability to accept credit card payments, potentially leading to loss of sales and negatively affecting their business.

It's important to note that being placed on the MATCH or TMF list typically occurs due to serious violations or breaches of the payment network's rules and regulations. These violations can include fraud, excessive chargebacks, unauthorized or illegal activities, or repeated non-compliance with the network's operating guidelines.

If a merchant believes they have been erroneously listed or wishes to dispute their placement on the list, they should contact the acquiring bank or payment processor responsible for reporting the information to the MATCH or TMF database and follow their specific dispute resolution process.

Merchants are placed on the MATCH (Member Alert to Control High-Risk Merchants) list for various reasons. The primary reasons for a merchant to be listed on the MATCH list include:

• Violation of Card Network Rules: Merchants may be added to the MATCH list if they are found to be in violation of the rules and regulations set by the card networks, such as Visa or Mastercard. These violations can include engaging in fraudulent activities, processing unauthorized transactions, or failing to comply with the network's operating guidelines.
• Excessive Chargebacks: Chargebacks occur when a customer disputes a transaction and requests a refund from their issuing bank. Merchants who have a high volume of chargebacks, indicating dissatisfaction or potential issues with their products, services, or customer service, can be placed on the MATCH list. Excessive chargebacks are seen as a risk indicator for financial institutions.
• Unpaid Debt or Obligations: Merchants who have outstanding debts or obligations to acquiring banks or payment processors may be added to the MATCH list. This could include situations where a merchant fails to pay processing fees or other financial liabilities related to their merchant account.
• Unauthorized or Illegal Activities: Engaging in unauthorized or illegal activities, such as processing transactions for prohibited goods or services, can lead to a merchant being listed on the MATCH list. This includes activities like illegal gambling, illegal substances, or other illegal transactions.

It's important to note that being placed on the MATCH list is a serious matter and can have significant implications for a merchant's ability to obtain payment processing services in the future. Acquiring banks and payment processors refer to the MATCH list to assess the risk associated with a merchant's business before approving or denying their application for a merchant account.

• Account Data Compromise
• Common Point of Purchase
• Laundering
• Excessive Chargebacks
• Excessive Fraud
• Unused
• Fraud Conviction
• Mastercard Questionable Merchant Audit Program
• Bankruptcy/Liquidation/Insolvency
• Violation of Standards
• Merchant Collusion
• PCI-DSS Non-compliance
• Illegal Transactions
• Identity Theft