Where Can My Chipper Card Not Work? (MCC Restrictions)
To ensure compliance with financial regulations and security policies, Chipper cards (NGN, USD, UGX, GHS) cannot be used at certain merchant categories. Transactions to these types of merchants will be declined automatically.
1. What Are Merchant Category Codes (MCCs)?
Merchant Category Codes (MCCs) are four-digit codes assigned by card networks (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) to categorize businesses based on the type of goods or services they provide. Certain MCCs are restricted on Chipper cards for regulatory and operational reasons.
2. Restricted Merchant Categories
Transactions will be declined for the following merchant types:
Forex, CFD, and spread betting merchants
Financial institutions (loan payments, credit-related activities)
Money/wire transfers
Account funding, prepaid/stored value card purchases/funding
Drug stores and pharmacies
Pawn shops
Tobacco, cigarettes, cigars, vape/e-cigarette stores
Precious stones, metals, watches, and jewelry
Chemicals and allied products (not elsewhere classified)
Wrecking and salvage yards
Petroleum and petroleum products
Dating and escort services
Non-financial institutions – Foreign currency, money orders (not wire transfers), and traveler’s cheques
Betting & Gambling: Lottery tickets, casino gaming chips, off-track betting, race track wagers
Money Transfer Apps: Platforms classified under restricted financial transactions
3. Alternative Payment Options
If you need to make payments to any of the above merchants, consider the following options:
Using an alternative payment method such as bank transfers, other debit/credit cards, or digital wallets, where applicable.
Checking with the merchant if they accept alternative payment platforms.
4. Need Help?
If you have any questions about a declined transaction, please reach out to Chipper Support for further assistance.
Do you need further assistance?