How to Avoid the MATCH List as a Kratom Vendor
Getting MATCH listed is one of the fastest ways to lose your ability to accept credit card payments. Here’s what puts kratom businesses on the list — and how to protect yourself in 2025.
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What Is the MATCH List?
The MATCH list is a shared blacklist used by acquiring banks to identify risky merchants. It’s managed by Mastercard and stands for “Member Alert to Control High-Risk.”
Once you’re on it, processors will deny your applications automatically. It’s extremely difficult to get removed.
How Kratom Merchants Get MATCH Listed
- Using Stripe, PayPal, or Square to sell kratom (against their rules)
- Selling banned extracts like 7-hydroxymitragynine (7OH)
- Hiding your kratom products during underwriting
- Submitting fake or outdated documentation
- Getting hit with excessive chargebacks
Most MATCH listings happen when a merchant either lies during onboarding, breaks card brand rules, or works with a processor that does.
How to Avoid the MATCH List
- Use a processor that openly supports kratom and gets you underwritten properly
- Disclose your business type honestly — don’t label it as a supplement site if it’s not
- Stay away from 7OH or any synthetic banned by card brands
- Keep chargebacks low by using accurate product descriptions and good support
If you’re not sure whether your processor is putting you at risk, ask if they use a registered acquiring bank that underwrites kratom directly. If they don’t answer clearly, it’s time to switch.
What to Do If You’re Already Listed
If you’ve already been MATCH listed, you’re not out of options — but it gets harder. Some high-risk processors can still approve you by isolating the risk with special bank programs or custom boarding setups. Expect higher rates and tighter compliance checks.
You’ll also need to explain exactly what caused the MATCH listing and show you’ve corrected it. This might mean removing banned products, rebranding, or starting a new legal entity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I get MATCH listed?
You’ll be rejected by almost every payment processor and acquiring bank until you’re removed — which usually takes 5 years.
How do I know if I’m on the MATCH list?
You’ll get notified by your processor when your account is terminated. You can also request confirmation from a new processor if they deny your application and cite MATCH reason codes.
Does High Wire Payments board MATCH-listed merchants?
In some cases, yes. It depends on the MATCH code and your business history. If you’re not sure, apply and include the reason code you received.
Protect Your Merchant Account
If you’re selling kratom, don’t risk getting MATCH listed. High Wire Payments gives you access to legal banking that supports your industry — no mislabeling, no shady workarounds.
No Risky Workarounds
We board kratom the right way — no rebranding or hiding products.
Transparent Compliance
Everything is disclosed to the bank. You won’t get caught off guard.
Real Bank Approvals
Our solutions are backed by fully registered acquiring banks that support high-risk verticals.
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