M20 | Missing/incomplete data

Industry

Healthcare

Canonical

/healthcare/error-codes/m20/

Last Updated

Feb 25, 2026

Summary

This code indicates that required data elements were missing or incomplete for Medicare claim processing.

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What This Code Means

M20 is applied when CMS identifies missing or incomplete information needed to adjudicate a claim. This is an administrative issue rather than a coverage determination. The service may still be eligible for payment once information is complete. The code supports other adjustment or denial codes.

Where Users Usually See This Code

Medicare remittance advice
Claim rejection notices
CMS claim status reports

Why This Code Appears

Required data fields were incomplete
Submission did not meet CMS specifications
Information errors in claim details

What Typically Happens Next

Claim processing is delayed
Reprocessing may be required
Payment is not finalized

What This Code Is Not

It is not a coverage denial
It is not a contractual adjustment
It is not a duplicate claim

Troubleshooting Checklist

□ Review CMS submission requirements
□ Verify completeness of claim data
□ Monitor claim status

Notes And Edge Cases

CMS data requirements are detailed and specific. Minor omissions can result in this code.

Related Codes

8 links

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