How the program reaches a merchant
Mastercard works through acquiring banks when it investigates potential violations. An acquirer may request information, impose conditions or close an account based on network requirements and its own policies.
What to ask a payments partner
- Does an acquiring bank currently accept my exact products and business model?
- What documents and ongoing reporting does it require?
- What restrictions apply to buyers, claims and sales channels?
- What happens if the bank changes its acceptance policy?
Keep disclosure consistent
The application, merchant category code, website and labels should accurately describe the business. Do not conceal the seller or evade monitoring requirements.
Check the current rulesUse Mastercard’s official rules and the acquirer’s written terms. No intermediary can guarantee approval or continued processing.