What is Popular's MCC Code?
Popular uses MCC 5942 (Book Stores). This Merchant Category Code is used by credit card networks to classify transactions at Popular.
When you use your credit card at Popular, the transaction is tagged with MCC 5942. Your credit card issuer uses this code to determine what rewards you earn—whether it's bonus miles, cashback, or base points.
Best Credit Cards for Popular
HSBC Revolution
4 MPDIncluded in whitelist
Cap: Cap at $1,500 a month
UOB Preferred Platinum Visa
4 MPDIncluded in whitelist and not excluded
Cap: Cap at $600 a month per spend type
Citibank Rewards MasterCard
4 MPDNot excluded
Cap: Cap at $1,000 a month
Note: Online spend only - excludes travel-related MCCs (3000-3999 range)
Woman's World MasterCard
4 MPDNot excluded
Cap: Cap at $1,000 a month
Note: Online spend only
UOB Visa Signature
4 MPDNot excluded
Cap: Must spend between $1,000 to $1,200 via contactless and $1,000 to $1,200 for FCY
Note: On Site: Local contactless spend between $1,000-$1,200 | FCY: Foreign currency transactions between $1,000-$1,200
Cards That Don't Earn Bonus
These cards earn base rewards (1 MPD) at Popular:
✗OCBC Rewards
✗UOB Lady's Card
✗UOB Lady's Solitaire
Tips for Maximizing Rewards at Popular
- Use the card with the highest bonus rate for MCC 5942
- Track monthly caps to avoid missing out on bonus rewards
- Check if contactless vs inserted card affects your rewards rate
- Verify the MCC before making large purchases to ensure bonus eligibility
- Consider having multiple cards to maximize rewards across different spending categories