ISO 8583 Parser
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What Is an MCC?

MCC (Merchant Category Code) = a 4-digit code for what kind of business a merchant is (grocery, dining, fuel, airline…). It sits in DE18. It's not just a label — it drives fees, rewards, risk rules and spend controls.

A few common MCCs

MCCCategory
5411Grocery stores / supermarkets
5814Fast food restaurants
5541Service stations (fuel)
4111Transportation / commuter
3000–3299Airlines
6011ATM cash withdrawal
Remember: the MCC is a merchant's "industry ID" (DE18). The same $100 charge can carry different fees, rewards eligibility and risk treatment depending on the MCC.

👉 Related: four-party model (where fees come from), field reference (DE18).