The terms establish a defined list of business categories that are categorically prohibited from using Checkout.com services, as well as a separate list of categories that require pre-approval before payment processing begins, including gambling, money transmission, virtual currencies, and internet pharmacies.
This analysis describes what Checkout.com's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
Merchants operating in or adjacent to prohibited or pre-approval-required categories risk service termination or non-eligibility if they initiate payment processing without confirming their category status, as the agreement conditions service access on compliance with these lists.
Under this provision, merchants in prohibited categories are ineligible for Checkout.com services, and merchants in pre-approval categories must obtain explicit authorization before processing payments. The terms do not specify the process or timeline for pre-approval decisions.
Cross-platform context
See how other platforms handle Declined Lines of Business and Pre-Approval Requirements and similar clauses.
Compare across platforms →"You may not use the Checkout.com service for activities that: Are inappropriate content, goods or services that promote, cause or further Hate/Violence/Racism/Religious persecution; Cannabis, Marijuana and Marijuana-Related Businesses; Calling cards; Cigarettes; Drug paraphernalia; Drugs / Illicit substances, steroids and certain controlled substances or other products that present a risk to consumer safety... Activities Requiring Approval Checkout Ltd requires pre-approval to accept payments for certain services as detailed below: Activities involving gambling, gaming and/or any other activity with an entry fee and a prize... Acting as a money transmitter or selling stored value cards... Virtual currencies including but not limited to Bitcoin and Bitcoin exchanges.Excerpt from Checkout.com's Terms
REGULATORY LANDSCAPE: The declined business list and pre-approval requirements reflect Checkout.com's obligations under the Money Laundering Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds Regulations 2017 and FCA authorization conditions, as well as card network rules for …
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Merchants operating in or adjacent to prohibited or pre-approval-required categories risk service termination or non-eligibility if they initiate payment processing without confirming their category status, as the agreement conditions service access on compliance with these lists.
Under this provision, merchants in prohibited categories are ineligible for Checkout.com services, and merchants in pre-approval categories must obtain explicit authorization before processing payments. The terms do not specify the process or timeline for pre-approval decisions.
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