Understanding MCC Codes
Every time you use your credit card, the merchant is assigned a four-digit Merchant Category Code (MCC). This code tells the credit card network what type of business you're shopping at—and it directly affects how many rewards points, miles, or cashback you earn.
For Singapore credit card users, understanding MCC codes is the secret to maximizing rewards. By knowing which MCC codes earn bonus rates on your cards, you can ensure you're always using the optimal card for every purchase.
How MCC Codes Work
When a merchant sets up to accept credit cards, they are classified into an industry category and assigned a corresponding MCC code. This code is sent along with every transaction processed through their terminal.
Common MCC Code Examples
Credit card issuers use these MCC codes to determine bonus categories. For example, a card may offer 4 MPD on dining (MCC 5812, 5814) but only 1 MPD on other purchases. Some cards use whitelists (only specific MCCs earn bonuses) while others use blacklists (all MCCs earn bonuses except excluded ones).
Why MCC Codes Matter for Singapore Cardholders
In Singapore's competitive credit card market, many cards offer bonus rewards on specific MCC categories. Understanding these patterns can help you earn significantly more rewards on the same spending.
Pro Tip: Check Before You Spend
Before making a large purchase, check the merchant's MCC code on CheckMCC.sg to see which cards earn the most rewards. You might discover that a different card in your wallet offers bonus rates you didn't know about.
Popular MCC-Based Cards in Singapore
- UOB Visa Signature: 4 MPD on most MCCs (excludes some like insurance, utilities) - View Singapore MCC Guide
- UOB PPV: 4 MPD on online shopping (MCC 5399), dining (5812, 5814), and travel
- HSBC Revolution: 4 MPD on specific whitelisted MCCs including online shopping and dining
- OCBC Rewards: 4 MPD on whitelisted MCCs across multiple categories
📚 Learn more: Singapore MCC Guide • Regional MCC Differences
How to Find a Merchant's MCC Code
Finding a merchant's MCC code used to require calling your bank or digging through transaction statements. Now, you can look up any merchant instantly using CheckMCC.sg or browse the complete MCC reference.
- Visit CheckMCC.sg
- Enter the merchant name or website domain
- View their MCC code and eligible bonus cards
- Choose the right card before you pay
Common MCC Search Questions
Q: Does Shopee earn bonus rewards?
A: Yes! Shopee uses MCC 5399 (Miscellaneous General Merchandise), which earns 4 MPD on UOB PPV, UOB Visa Signature, and other cards.
Q: What MCC does GrabFood use?
A: GrabFood typically uses MCC 5814 (Fast Food Restaurants), making it eligible for dining bonus rewards on many cards.
MCC Code Tips & Tricks
- Same merchant, different MCC: A brand may have different MCC codes for online vs offline stores (e.g., online shopping vs retail store)
- Payment method matters: Some cards require contactless payment or mobile wallet to earn bonus rates
- Check monthly caps: Bonus rewards are often capped—track your spending to maximize rewards
- Foreign transactions: Some cards exclude foreign currency transactions from bonus categories
Ready to Maximize Your Rewards?
Now that you understand MCC codes, start using them to earn more rewards on every purchase. Look up merchants, compare cards, and make informed decisions about which card to use.