Denial code · Contractual Obligation (CO)
CO-96 denial code
The payer does not cover this charge.
What the code means
Official meaning: Non-covered charge(s). At least one Remark Code must be provided (may be comprised of either the NCPDP Reject Reason Code, or Remittance Advice Remark Code that is not an ALERT.)
In plain words: The payer does not cover this charge.
The usual fix
Read the note codes on the reply to see why it is not covered, check if the charge belongs on another line or with another payer, and fix it or appeal where the payer allows.
This is general information, not advice on a specific claim.
Learn on the job
Learn on the job with real denied claims.
Working denied claims is the medical claims desk's daily work. Read a code, find what is missing, fix the claim, or write the appeal.