CARC 289: Services considered under the dental and medical plans, benefits not available.
Services considered under the dental and medical plans, benefits not available.
CARC 289 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 289 means
The official X12 description is: “Services considered under the dental and medical plans, benefits not available.”
In plain language: Services considered under the dental and medical plans, benefits not available.
What to do next 289
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 289 group codes explained
On the 835 ERA, CARC 289 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 289 mean?
Services considered under the dental and medical plans, benefits not available. In plain language: Services considered under the dental and medical plans, benefits not available.
Is CARC 289 appealable?
Yes — CARC 289 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 289 appear under?
CARC 289 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 289 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 289 denial
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