Healthcare Error Code
Healthcare Insurance / Medical Billing
Remittance Advice Remark Codes (RARC)
N20 | Service not payable
Industry
Healthcare
Canonical
/healthcare/error-codes/n20/
Last Updated
Feb 25, 2026
Summary
This code indicates that the service is not payable under the payer’s reimbursement policies.
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What This Code Means
N20 is a remark code used to indicate that payment is not allowed for the billed service. It provides additional context but does not independently determine coverage. The code reflects payer policy rather than claim submission errors. It does not specify whether the service is excluded permanently or conditionally. N20 is typically paired with an adjustment reason code explaining the primary decision.
Where Users Usually See This Code
- Remittance advice remark sections
- EOB summaries
- Claim line detail explanations
Why This Code Appears
- The service does not meet payment criteria
- Coverage policies restrict reimbursement
- Plan rules exclude payment for the service
What Typically Happens Next
- The service remains unpaid
- Financial responsibility is assigned as indicated
- The claim line is closed
What This Code Is Not
- It is not a documentation error
- It is not a temporary hold
- It is not a system malfunction
Troubleshooting Checklist
- □ Review coverage policy criteria
- □ Confirm plan-specific rules
- □ Check for secondary coverage
Notes And Edge Cases
Some services may be payable under different circumstances or plans. Secondary insurance may affect final responsibility.
Related Codes
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