MCC 5942

What MCC Code Does Barnes & Noble Use?

Plus: the best credit cards to use at Barnes & Noble for maximum rewards in 2026.

By PointsPick Team, Credit Card Research Team  ·  Updated April 2026

Quick Answer

Barnes & Noble uses MCC code 5942 (Book Stores). The best credit card is the Signify Business Cash, earning 2x rewards on this category.

Best Credit Cards at Barnes & Noble

Barnes & Noble transactions are processed under MCC 5942 (Book Stores, category: bookstore). These cards earn the highest rewards:

Card Earning Rate Annual Fee Issuer
Signify Business Cash 2x No annual fee Wells Fargo Apply Now
Active Cash 2x No annual fee Wells Fargo Apply Now
Freedom Unlimited 2x No annual fee Chase Apply Now

Rates and fees as of April 2026. Verify with issuer before applying.

Quick Reference

All cards for MCC 5942 Barnes & Noble merchant page MCC lookup tool Best credit cards

Frequently Asked Questions

What MCC code does Barnes & Noble use?

Barnes & Noble uses MCC code 5942, which is classified as "Book Stores". This determines which credit card bonus categories apply to purchases at Barnes & Noble.

What is the best credit card to use at Barnes & Noble?

The best credit card at Barnes & Noble is the Signify Business Cash, which earns 2x points/miles on purchases coded as MCC 5942 (Book Stores).

Does Barnes & Noble qualify for grocery credit card bonuses?

Barnes & Noble uses MCC 5942 (Book Stores). This means purchases at Barnes & Noble do NOT qualify for grocery credit card bonuses, which require MCC 5411 (Grocery Stores and Supermarkets).