Claim adjustment reason code
Denial code CO-189 meaning
CARC 189, usually seen as CO-189: A not-otherwise-classified or unlisted code was billed when a specific code exists.
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- Reason code
- CARC 189
- Short name
- Unlisted code used when a specific code exists
- Plain meaning
- A not-otherwise-classified or unlisted code was billed when a specific code exists.
- Group codes
- CO-189: 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
- An unlisted or NOC code was used for a service that has its own code.
What to check before resubmitting
- Find the specific code and resubmit.
Remark codes that often come with it
Related reason codes
Related pages
Questions
What does denial code CO-189 mean?
A not-otherwise-classified or unlisted code was billed when a specific code exists. This is Rivvi's plain-English summary of CARC 189. X12's exact wording is on x12.org.
How do I fix CO-189?
Find the specific code and resubmit.
Can I bill the patient for CO-189?
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 189?
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.