What MATCH/TMF means
MATCH is a Mastercard-managed terminated merchant screening database used by acquiring banks and processors during underwriting. TMF is often used as another term for terminated merchant file screening.
MATCH / TMF
MATCH and TMF prevention for high-risk merchants
A careful explanation of the terminated merchant screening risk high-risk merchants should understand before chargebacks, fraud, or processor violations escalate.
Why merchants get exposed
Common risk areas include excessive chargebacks, excessive fraud, laundering or processing for another business, identity issues, standards violations, illegal activity, or unresolved processor losses.
How to reduce risk
Monitor chargeback and fraud ratios, keep compliance current, do not process for another business, respond to processor reviews quickly, and close accounts cleanly when exiting a processor relationship.
Operating checklist
What to check before the processor asks.
Keep chargeback and fraud metrics below processor and network review levels.
Never process transactions for another business through your account.
Respond to processor remediation requests with written evidence.
Keep PCI and business information current.
Formally close old accounts and resolve pending refunds or disputes.
Next step