CARC 20: This injury/illness is covered by the liability carrier.
This injury/illness is covered by the liability carrier.
CARC 20 is the code your insurance company used to explain why your claim was reduced, denied, or paid less than expected. It appears on your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) — the statement your plan sends after a claim is processed. Here's what it means for you and what you can do about it.
What CARC 20 means
The official X12 description is: “This injury/illness is covered by the liability carrier.”
In plain language: This injury/illness is covered by the liability carrier.
What to do next 20
Appeal with documentation specific to this code. The provider's billing office can help clarify what the carrier wants.
DenialHelp helps organize a source-linked draft from the denial notice and confirmed case facts. The patient and treating clinician must verify the governing review rule, current payer policy, clinical sources, attachments, destination, and deadline.
CARC 20 group codes explained
On the 835 ERA, CARC 20 appears alongside a group code that signals who is financially responsible for the adjustment. CO (Contractual Obligation) — Contractual write-off. The provider agreed to the rate. Patient does NOT owe this amount.
Frequently asked questions
What does CARC 20 mean?
This injury/illness is covered by the liability carrier. In plain language: This injury/illness is covered by the liability carrier.
Is CARC 20 appealable?
Yes — CARC 20 is one of the codes that commonly supports an appeal. Appeal with documentation specific to this code. The provider's billing office can help clarify what the carrier wants.
Which group code does CARC 20 appear under?
CARC 20 most often appears under: CO (Contractual Obligation) — Contractual write-off. The provider agreed to the rate. Patient does NOT owe this amount.
How do I appeal a CARC 20 denial?
Appeal with documentation specific to this code. The provider's billing office can help clarify what the carrier wants.
Related resources
Sources
Appeal a CARC 20 denial
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