Claim adjustment reason code
Denial code CO-174 meaning
CARC 174, usually seen as CO-174: The service was not prescribed before it was given.
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- Reason code
- CARC 174
- Short name
- Not prescribed before delivery
- Plain meaning
- The service was not prescribed before it was given.
- Group codes
- CO-174: Contractual obligation. The provider absorbs the amount under its contract or the payer's rules. Do not bill the patient for it.
Plain-English summary written by Rivvi. X12 owns the CARC list and its exact wording, which is not reproduced here. Read it on the X12 CARC list (list dated November 1, 2025, checked October 23, 2026). This page does not decide how a claim is paid.
Common causes
- The order is dated after the delivery date.
What to check before resubmitting
- Get a written order before delivery for future claims.
- Check the order date on file.
Related reason codes
Related pages
Questions
What does denial code CO-174 mean?
The service was not prescribed before it was given. This is Rivvi's plain-English summary of CARC 174. X12's exact wording is on x12.org.
How do I fix CO-174?
Get a written order before delivery for future claims. Check the order date on file.
Can I bill the patient for CO-174?
With group code CO, no. CO means the provider absorbs the amount under its contract or the payer's rules.
Which group codes come with CARC 174?
Most often CO (contractual obligation). The group code, not the reason code, says who owes the amount.
What is the difference between a CARC and a RARC?
A claim adjustment reason code (CARC) says why a claim line was paid differently than billed. A remittance advice remark code (RARC) adds detail, such as which field is missing.