MEMORANDUM

DISCUSSION:

Effective January 15, 2014, the use of Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards for Temporary Assistance (TA) transactions at Point of Sale (POS) terminals and identified Automated Teller Machines (ATM) are  blocked at liquor stores, casinos, gambling casinos or gaming establishments, retail establishments that provide adult-oriented entertainment, and in places primarily marketed to adults 18 or over and not in the best interest of the child or household.

Temporary Assistance transaction blocking in Missouri is based on the Merchant Category Code (MCC), a four-digit number that describes the type of business, and for businesses that provide multiple goods and services, it reflects the greater percentage of the business. The MCC is assigned by the bank or financial institution that processed the business' application to start accepting VISA, MasterCard, American Express, or other bankcard payments. FIS, the EBT contractor, reviews all EBT transactions and will deny transactions at identified ATMs and at POS terminals associated with certain MCCs.

If businesses contact the Family Support Division with issues related to their assigned MCC code, refer the businesses to their financial institution. The Department of Social Services, Family Support Division, and FIS are not able to change the MCC. Businesses who think they are classified incorrectly must work with the financial institutions that are responsible for the MCC.

NECESSARY ACTION:

• Review this memorandum with all staff.

AC/dbh