Understanding MCCs in Singapore: The Key to Unlocking Credit Card Rewards

Merchant Category Codes (MCCs) are a crucial-yet often overlooked-factor in how Singaporeans can maximise their credit card rewards. Whether you’re chasing cashback, air miles, or reward points, knowing how MCCs work can mean the difference between earning bonus perks or missing out entirely.

What Are Merchant Category Codes (MCCs)?

MCCs are four-digit numbers assigned by payment networks like Visa and Mastercard to classify businesses according to the type of goods or services they provide.

For example, a supermarket is assigned a different MCC than a restaurant or an online marketplace. Every time you make a purchase, the MCC attached to the merchant determines how your transaction is categorised-and, importantly, how your credit card issuer decides to award rewards.

How to Instantly Check MCCs with the HeyMax App

One of the easiest ways to check a merchant’s MCC in Singapore is by using the HeyMax app. Simply search for any merchant within the app, and HeyMax will display the relevant MCC, along with recommendations for the best credit card to use for that transaction.

It even helps you track the rewards you earn and monitor bonus caps across your cards, so you’ll always know which card to use for maximum rewards whilst earning additional rewards called “Max Miles” through their Shopping (both online & offline) and Dining features.

This makes HeyMax especially useful for avoiding missed opportunities due to misclassified transactions or confusing MCC assignments.

Why MCCs Matter for Credit Card Rewards

Credit cards in Singapore often offer bonus rewards for specific categories-such as dining, groceries, or online shopping. These categories are defined by MCCs, not by the merchant’s brand or what you think you’re buying. If a transaction’s MCC doesn’t match the category your credit card rewards, you may not get the expected cashback or miles.

For example:

• Buying groceries at a supermarket (MCC 5411) may earn you bonus points.
  
  
• Buying the same item at a convenience store (different MCC) might not qualify for those rewards.
  
  

Banks in Singapore do not provide a centralised public database for MCCs, so consumers often learn about MCCs through experience, bank-issued lists, or by checking their transaction statements after a purchase.

Common MCCs for Singapore Merchants

Here are some of the most frequently encountered MCCs in Singapore, especially relevant for maximising credit card rewards:

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Note: Some merchants may be classified under different MCCs depending on how their payment system is set up. For example, Lazada is classified as a department store (5311), while Shopee falls under general merchandise (5399). Always check your transaction details or bank’s MCC list for confirmation.

How MCCs Affect Your Rewards

• Bonus Categories: Many cards offer higher rewards for specific MCCs (e.g., 4% cashback at MCC 5411 for groceries). If your transaction’s MCC doesn’t match, you’ll only earn the base rate.
  
  
• Exclusions: Some cards exclude certain MCCs from earning rewards (e.g., government services, utilities, or insurance payments).
  
  
• Misclassification: Sometimes, a merchant may not be classified as you expect. For example, buying groceries from a convenience store may not qualify for supermarket bonuses if the MCC is different.
  
  
• Payment Platforms: Transactions made through third-party platforms (e.g., PayPal, ShopeePay) may not always pass the correct MCC, potentially affecting your rewards eligibility.
  
  

Tips to Maximise Rewards Using MCCs

• Check Bank Lists: Refer to your bank’s official MCC lists or credit card T&Cs to see which MCCs qualify for bonus rewards.
  
  
• Test with Small Purchases: Unsure of a merchant’s MCC? Try a small transaction and check your statement to see how it’s classified.
  
  
• Ask the Merchant: Some merchants can tell you their registered MCC, but not all frontline staff may know this.
  
  
• Monitor for Changes: MCCs can change if a merchant updates their payment system or switches acquiring banks. Regularly review your statements.
  
  

Conclusion

Understanding MCCs is essential for any savvy Singaporean looking to optimise credit card rewards. Since MCCs-not merchant names-determine your rewards, always verify how your favourite stores are classified. With this knowledge, you can make smarter spending decisions and avoid missing out on valuable cashback, miles, or points.

By staying informed and checking your statements, you’ll ensure that every swipe counts towards your financial goals.

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