MCC 5251: Hardware Stores
MCC 5251 is the merchant category code for hardware stores. Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express assign it to businesses such as hardware stores, tool shops, and lumber yards.
- Code
- 5251
- Category group
- Retail Outlet Services
- Risk rating
- Standard risk
Which businesses use MCC 5251?
Acquiring banks assign MCC 5251 to merchants whose primary line of business is hardware stores. Common examples include:
- Hardware stores
- Tool shops
- Lumber yards
Is MCC 5251 considered high risk?
Most acquirers approve this MCC with standard underwriting, no rolling reserve, and access to the lowest interchange categories.
How does MCC 5251 affect processing fees?
MCC 5251 determines which interchange category Visa and Mastercard apply to each transaction. Codes in the retail outlet services range share interchange programs, so two merchants with the same card mix but different MCCs can pay different wholesale rates.
Frequently asked questions
What does MCC 5251 mean?
MCC 5251 is the merchant category code for Hardware Stores. Card networks use it to classify transactions from businesses such as hardware stores, tool shops, and lumber yards.
Is MCC 5251 high risk?
MCC 5251 is generally rated standard risk. Most acquirers approve this MCC with standard underwriting, no rolling reserve, and access to the lowest interchange categories.
Can a business change its MCC from 5251?
A business can request a different MCC through its acquiring bank. The acquirer reviews what the business actually sells and reassigns the code only if 5251 does not describe the primary line of business.