CARC 276: Services denied by the prior payer(s) are not covered by this payer.
Services denied by the prior payer(s) are not covered by this payer.
CARC 276 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 276 means
The official X12 description is: “Services denied by the prior payer(s) are not covered by this payer.”
In plain language: Services denied by the prior payer(s) are not covered by this payer.
What to do next 276
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 276 group codes explained
On the 835 ERA, CARC 276 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 276 mean?
Services denied by the prior payer(s) are not covered by this payer. In plain language: Services denied by the prior payer(s) are not covered by this payer.
Is CARC 276 appealable?
Yes — CARC 276 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 276 appear under?
CARC 276 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 276 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 276 denial
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