Does Fast Food Count as a Restaurant for Credit Card Rewards?

Generally, yes, fast food restaurants typically do count as restaurants for credit card rewards. However, the devil, as always, is in the details. While the vast majority of credit card issuers categorize fast food establishments under the Merchant Category Code (MCC) for “Restaurants,” there can be exceptions. This article will delve into the nuances of how credit card companies define “restaurant” for rewards purposes, explore potential pitfalls, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure you maximize your rewards earnings when grabbing a quick bite.

Understanding Merchant Category Codes (MCCs)

MCCs are four-digit codes used by credit card networks (like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover) to classify businesses. When a transaction is processed, the merchant’s MCC is sent along with the transaction data. Credit card issuers use these codes to determine which bonus rewards to apply.

The Key MCC for Restaurants: 5814 & 5812

The most common MCCs associated with restaurants are:

• 5814 – Fast Food Restaurants: This code is specifically for establishments primarily serving quick-service meals. Think McDonald’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, and the like.
• 5812 – Eating Places, Restaurants: This broader category covers a wide range of dining establishments, from casual sit-down restaurants to fine dining experiences.

Because fast food restaurants are assigned the 5814 MCC, credit card companies will recognize that purchase as dining. Therefore, if your credit card offers bonus rewards for restaurant spending, then you will typically get bonus rewards at fast food restaurants.

Why MCCs Matter for Rewards

Your credit card issuer doesn’t know if you enjoyed a leisurely three-course meal or grabbed a burger on the go. They only see the MCC associated with the transaction. If your credit card offers 3x points on “dining” and the merchant is coded as “fast food restaurants”, you’ll likely earn the bonus rewards. However, errors can occur, or a business might be misclassified. This is where understanding MCCs becomes critical.

Potential Pitfalls: When Fast Food Might Not Count

Despite the general rule, some situations might prevent you from earning restaurant rewards at fast food locations:

• Third-Party Delivery Services: Ordering through platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Grubhub can sometimes code differently than direct purchases. While many credit cards now explicitly include these services in their “dining” category, it’s essential to check your card’s terms and conditions. The transaction may be coded as a “delivery service” or even “online retail,” potentially missing out on bonus rewards.
• Standalone Gas Stations/Convenience Stores: If a fast food chain is located inside a gas station or convenience store, the entire purchase might be coded under the gas station’s or convenience store’s MCC (e.g., “Gas Stations,” “Convenience Stores”). In this case, even the fast food portion of your bill wouldn’t qualify for restaurant rewards.
• Merchant Processing Errors: Occasionally, a business might inadvertently use an incorrect MCC. This is rare, but it can happen. If you suspect an error, contact your credit card issuer to inquire about reclassification. Be ready to provide proof of purchase (receipt) and be patient.
• Restaurant Cards with Specific Definitions: Some credit cards offering high rewards on restaurant spending might have a more restrictive definition of “restaurant.” Always read the fine print to understand exactly which types of establishments qualify.

How to Verify the MCC of a Transaction

Unfortunately, MCCs are generally not displayed on your credit card statement. However, there are a few ways to find the MCC associated with a past transaction:

• Use Online MCC Lookup Tools: Several websites and apps allow you to search for a transaction’s MCC using the merchant name and transaction date. These tools are often populated by user data, so their accuracy can vary.
• Contact Your Credit Card Issuer: The most reliable method is to contact your credit card issuer directly. They can access the MCC associated with any transaction on your account.
• Card Benefit Guides: Some premium credit cards provide comprehensive guides to their benefits, which may include a list of eligible MCCs for specific bonus categories.

Maximizing Rewards at Fast Food Restaurants

Here are some tips to ensure you earn the maximum rewards possible when dining at fast food establishments:

• Use the Right Credit Card: Choose a credit card that offers bonus rewards on dining or restaurant spending. If you have multiple cards, select the one with the highest rewards rate for this category.
• Pay Directly: Avoid using third-party delivery services unless your credit card explicitly includes them in its dining bonus category. Paying directly at the restaurant or through the restaurant’s app is usually the safest bet.
• Check Your Statement: Review your credit card statement regularly to ensure transactions are correctly categorized and you’re receiving the expected rewards.
• If in Doubt, Ask: If you are concerned if an establishment qualifies for a bonus category, call the credit card issuer to confirm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do all fast food restaurants code as MCC 5814?

While most fast food restaurants are coded as MCC 5814, there can be exceptions, particularly if they are located within another type of business.

2. What if my fast food purchase doesn’t earn bonus rewards?

First, verify that the transaction was indeed coded under MCC 5814 or 5812. If it wasn’t, contact your credit card issuer with proof of purchase and request a reclassification.

3. Does ordering through a fast food restaurant’s app count as a restaurant purchase?

Generally, yes. Transactions made directly through a restaurant’s app usually code as restaurant spending.

4. Will buying groceries at a fast food restaurant (e.g., milk or bread) qualify for restaurant rewards?

No. Only the portion of your purchase that clearly falls under the restaurant category will likely qualify. If the merchant is coded as a grocery store because you bought milk and bread, none of the transaction will count for restaurant rewards.

5. Are food trucks considered restaurants for credit card rewards?

Typically, yes. Most food trucks are coded with a restaurant MCC, but it’s always best to double-check, especially for newer or less established vendors.

6. What if I use a mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay) at a fast food restaurant?

Using a mobile wallet shouldn’t affect whether or not you earn restaurant rewards, as the MCC is still transmitted through the transaction. The MCC is determined by the merchant, not the payment method.

7. Does buying a gift card at a fast food restaurant count as a restaurant purchase?

Potentially. It depends on how the transaction is coded. Some gift card purchases are coded differently, potentially as a general retail purchase. However, if it codes as a restaurant purchase, it should qualify for the bonus rewards.

8. What if I’m not sure whether a particular establishment is coded as a restaurant?

The easiest way to find out is to make a small purchase at the establishment using your credit card and then check the transaction details online or contact your credit card issuer.

9. Can a credit card company change the MCC after a transaction?

Yes, credit card companies can reclassify a transaction’s MCC, especially if you provide evidence that the original coding was incorrect. This is most often done if you contact customer service about the transaction.

10. If a restaurant codes as “miscellaneous retail,” is there anything I can do?

Contact your credit card issuer with proof of purchase (receipt) and explain the situation. They may be willing to reclassify the transaction, but there’s no guarantee.

11. Do all credit cards define “restaurant” the same way for bonus rewards?

No. Different credit cards may have slightly different definitions of what qualifies as a “restaurant.” Always read the terms and conditions of your specific credit card to understand its definition.

12. Is it possible for a fast food restaurant to change its MCC?

Yes. Businesses can request a change to their MCC from their payment processor. This might happen if the business significantly changes its offerings or business model.