Adult Content

Adult Content Merchant Accounts

Reliable, compliant merchant accounts for adult content platforms, subscription sites, and creator marketplaces. BoazPay works with banks that specifically support the adult industry with full regulatory compliance.

No application fee · No setup fee · Decisions in 48–72 hours

The Challenge

Why Adult Content is Considered High-Risk

Industry Stigma

Most acquiring banks refuse adult content as a matter of policy, regardless of the merchant's compliance, traffic volume, or chargeback history.

2257 Compliance Complexity

US-based adult content businesses must maintain detailed performer records under 18 U.S.C. § 2257. Banks require evidence of compliance before approving processing.

Chargeback Patterns

Adult content subscribers frequently use chargebacks as a cancellation mechanism, particularly for subscription sites with difficult cancel flows.

Card Network Policy Updates

Visa and Mastercard updated their adult content policies in 2020–2021 to require enhanced content moderation and performer verification, which most processors cannot support.

Accepted Sub-Verticals

  • Adult content subscription platforms (fan sites, creator marketplaces)
  • Licensed adult video-on-demand
  • Webcam and live streaming platforms
  • Adult digital download stores
  • Adult print magazines and e-books
  • Adult toy and novelty e-commerce
  • Adult dating subscription platforms (compliant)
  • Sexual wellness product retailers

Currently Not Supported

  • Any platform without robust performer age verification and consent documentation
  • Content involving minors (absolutely prohibited)
  • Content that is illegal under the laws of the merchant's jurisdiction
  • Non-consensual or revenge content platforms

Typical MCC Codes for Adult Content

MCCDescription
5967Direct Marketing – Inbound Teleservices Merchant (commonly used for adult subscription)
7273Dating and Escort Services
5999Miscellaneous Retail Stores (for adult novelty/toy retail)

MCC assignment is at the acquiring bank's discretion. Your BoazPay account manager will confirm your MCC during underwriting.

Chargeback Rates in Adult Content

Typical industry rate: 2.0% – 3.5%

Adult content platforms see elevated chargebacks from subscription confusion, card-sharing (family members discovering charges), and 'embarrassment chargebacks.' Clear billing descriptors and easy cancellation are the most important controls.

How to Keep Your Rate Low:

  • Use a billing descriptor that is identifiable to the subscriber but discreet
  • Implement prominent, easy one-click cancellation in the member area
  • Pre-dispute alert services are essential for adult content platforms
  • 2257 record-keeping is required and also provides strong evidence in chargeback disputes

Required Documents

  • Business registration
  • Government ID for all principals (25%+)
  • 2257 Compliance Documentation (performer records template and custodian designation)
  • Age Verification Policy documentation
  • Content Moderation Policy
  • Website with terms of service, cancellation policy, billing descriptor disclosure
  • Processing history or bank statements
  • Sample performer consent agreement

Approval Timeline

5–10 business days due to enhanced compliance review of 2257 records and content moderation policy. Businesses with clean processing history and complete compliance documentation may be expedited.

Indicative Rate Range

4.0% – 6.5% discount rate + $0.30–$0.50 per transaction. Creator marketplaces with robust performer verification and low chargeback history qualify for the lower end of the range.

Your custom quote depends on your industry, volume, and history — get a free assessment in 60 seconds.

Relevant Integrations

NMICustom API with tokenizationEpoch payment platformCCBillSegpay

Adult Content Payment Processing FAQs

Ready to Apply for a Adult Content Merchant Account?

No application fee · No setup fee · No long-term contract

Questions? Call +1 (602) 812-0363 or email info@boazpay.com

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