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Timely filing depends on proofDenial Code CARC 29: The time limit for filing the claim has expired
CARC 29 means: the time limit for filing the claim has expired. Here's what it means in plain English, why it happens, and how it's worked toward payment.
CARC 29 — The time limit for filing the claim has expired. Denial family:
Timely filing.
Why you get a CARC 29 denial
- The claim was submitted after the payer's filing deadline.
- The original timely submission wasn't recognized by the payer.
- A qualifying exception (e.g., retroactive eligibility) applies.
How to fix or appeal CARC 29
- Pull the original submission/acknowledgment date from your clearinghouse.
- If filed on time, submit clearinghouse proof and request reprocessing.
- If an exception applies, file with exception documentation and a narrative.
Frequently overturned when you can prove timely original submission through clearinghouse records.
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CARC 29 — FAQ
How do I appeal a timely filing denial?
Provide proof of the original on-time submission — your clearinghouse acknowledgment/report is the strongest evidence. Many timely-filing denials reverse with that proof.
What if the claim really was late?
If there's no qualifying exception and no proof of timely filing, it's generally unrecoverable — the practice is notified and the workflow gap is fixed going forward.