Mastercard's MATCH Pro system supports acquirer screening through records of specified merchant risk events. An account closure or repeated application declines do not, by themselves, establish a listing. Start by requesting direct confirmation from the acquirer that handled the terminated account.
Get the facts before making another application
Ask the acquirer for a written response that identifies:
- Whether a MATCH record exists and which business or individual it concerns
- The listing reason code, relevant dates, and reporting acquirer
- The records or activity on which the decision was based
- How to submit a correction request and supporting documents
How Long Does MATCH Listing Last?
Mastercard's rules state that MATCH Pro merchant records remain in the system for five years and are then automatically purged. Ask the acquirer to confirm the dates associated with the actual record. Removal does not itself approve a new merchant account.
Prepare a correction or underwriting file
- Preserve the termination notice, merchant agreement, statements, and correspondence
- Organize the evidence relevant to the stated reason instead of guessing from the decline
- Document changes to fulfillment, security, refunds, or other affected operations
- Disclose the listing and prior processing history accurately to a prospective provider
- Request its written decision, fees, reserve conditions, and activation requirements
"A listing review and a new processing application are separate decisions. Neither has a guaranteed outcome or timetable."