MCC 8042: Optometrists and Ophthalmologists
MCC 8042 is the merchant category code for optometrists and ophthalmologists. Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express assign it to businesses such as eye doctors, optometry practices, and LASIK centers.
- Code
- 8042
- Category group
- Professional Services and Membership Organizations
- Risk rating
- Standard risk
Which businesses use MCC 8042?
Acquiring banks assign MCC 8042 to merchants whose primary line of business is optometrists and ophthalmologists. Common examples include:
- Eye doctors
- Optometry practices
- LASIK centers
Is MCC 8042 considered high risk?
Most acquirers approve this MCC with standard underwriting, no rolling reserve, and access to the lowest interchange categories.
How does MCC 8042 affect processing fees?
MCC 8042 determines which interchange category Visa and Mastercard apply to each transaction. Codes in the professional services and membership organizations range share interchange programs, so two merchants with the same card mix but different MCCs can pay different wholesale rates.
Payment processing for MCC 8042 merchants
Niche Payments runs a dedicated healthcare payment processing program for businesses classified under MCC 8042. Patient payments that fit how your practice actually runs.
- HIPAA-aware card storage and patient payment plans
- HSA and FSA card acceptance at the front desk and online
- Text-to-pay and patient portal invoicing
Frequently asked questions
What does MCC 8042 mean?
MCC 8042 is the merchant category code for Optometrists and Ophthalmologists. Card networks use it to classify transactions from businesses such as eye doctors, optometry practices, and LASIK centers.
Is MCC 8042 high risk?
MCC 8042 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 8042?
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 8042 does not describe the primary line of business.