Coordination of benefits (COB) / redirect usually a redirect fix

Denial Code CARC 22: This care may be covered by another payer per coordination of benefits

CARC 22 means: this care may be covered by another payer per coordination of benefits. Here's what it means in plain English, why it happens, and how it's worked toward payment.

CARC 22 — This care may be covered by another payer per coordination of benefits. Denial family: Coordination of benefits (COB) / redirect.

Why you get a CARC 22 denial

Another insurer is primary and should be billed first.
The patient's COB information is out of date with the payer.
Primary EOB wasn't attached to the secondary claim.

How to fix or appeal CARC 22

Verify the correct payer order (primary vs. secondary).
Bill the primary payer first, then submit the secondary with the primary's EOB.
If COB is simply outdated, have the patient/payer update it and rebill.

Usually recovered by billing the correct payer in the right order — not an appeal.

Have a stack of CARC 22 (or other) denials piling up? Get a free forensic A/R audit →

CARC 22 — FAQ

What is a COB denial?

Coordination-of-benefits: the payer thinks another insurer is responsible first. Establish the correct primary/secondary order and bill accordingly.

How do I fix CARC 22?

Confirm which plan is primary, bill it first, then send the secondary claim with the primary EOB attached. If COB data is stale, get it updated and resubmit.