How To Fix Denial Code 29 | Common Reasons, Next Steps & How To Avoid It

Denial Code 29 means that the time limit for filing a claim has expired. Below you can find the description, common reasons for denial code 29, next steps, how to avoid it, and examples.

2. Description

Denial Code 29 is a Claim Adjustment Reason Code (CARC) and is described as ‘The time limit for filing has expired’. This denial code indicates that the insurance company will not process the claim because it was submitted after the specified time frame for filing has passed. Insurance companies typically have specific deadlines for claim submission, and if a claim is not filed within that timeframe, it will be denied under Code 29.

2. Common Reasons

The most common reasons for denial code 29 are:

1. Missed Filing Deadline: Providers may fail to submit claims within the required timeframe due to administrative errors, delays in gathering necessary documentation, or other factors. This can result in denials under Code 29.
2. Lack of Awareness: Providers may be unaware of the specific filing deadlines set by different insurance companies or fail to stay updated on any changes to these deadlines. This lack of awareness can lead to claims being submitted after the expiration of the filing time limit.
3. Incomplete or Inaccurate Documentation: Claims that are missing required documentation or contain errors can be rejected by the insurance company. If providers do not ensure that all necessary information is included and accurate, the claim may be denied under Code 29.
4. Failure to Follow Up: In some cases, providers may be aware of the filing deadline but fail to prioritize claim submission or follow up on pending claims. This can result in missed deadlines and subsequent denials under Code 29.

3. Next Steps

You can address denial code 29 as follows:

1. Review Filing Deadlines: Familiarize yourself with the specific filing deadlines set by each insurance company you work with. Make sure to stay updated on any changes to these deadlines and communicate them to your billing and administrative staff.
2. Implement Reminder Systems: Set up internal systems or use software that sends reminders to ensure that claims are submitted within the required timeframe. This can help prevent missed deadlines and denials under Code 29.
3. Streamline Documentation Processes: Establish efficient processes for gathering and organizing the necessary documentation for claim submission. This can help ensure that all required information is included and accurate, reducing the risk of denials due to incomplete or inaccurate documentation.
4. Monitor Claim Status: Regularly track the status of submitted claims and follow up on any pending or rejected claims. This proactive approach can help identify and address any potential issues before the filing deadline expires.
5. Appeal Denied Claims: If a claim is denied under Code 29 due to missed filing deadlines, evaluate whether there are valid reasons for the delay. If so, gather supporting documentation and submit an appeal to the insurance company, explaining the circumstances and requesting reconsideration.

4. How To Avoid It

You can prevent denial code 29 in the future by following these steps:

1. Stay Informed: Stay updated on the filing deadlines set by each insurance company you work with. Regularly check for any changes or updates to these deadlines and communicate them to your team.
2. Establish Internal Deadlines: Set internal deadlines for claim submission that are well in advance of the insurance company’s filing deadline. This allows for ample time to gather necessary documentation and address any potential issues before the actual deadline.
3. Implement Quality Control Measures: Establish processes to review claims for completeness and accuracy before submission. This includes verifying that all required documentation is included and accurate, reducing the risk of denials due to incomplete or inaccurate information.
4. Utilize Technology: Explore the use of claim management software or electronic health record systems that can help automate and streamline the claim submission process. These tools can provide reminders, track claim status, and help ensure timely filing.

5. Example Cases

Below are two examples of denial code 29:

• Example 1: A provider fails to submit a claim for a patient’s medical procedure within the insurance company’s specified filing deadline of 90 days. As a result, the claim is denied under Code 29.
• Example 2: Due to an administrative oversight, a provider mistakenly submits a claim for a patient’s visit six months after the insurance company’s filing deadline of 180 days. The claim is denied under Code 29 due to the expired time limit for filing.

Source: Claim Adjustment Reason Codes