CMS 2026 Alert: Quarterly ICD-10-CM & NCCI updates active.
CO-33 - Denial Journal
CARC CO — Contractual Obligation

CO-33

Insured has no dependent coverage

What This Code Means

The subscriber’s plan doesn’t include dependent coverage at all.

Common Causes

  • Patient assumed dependent coverage existed when the plan doesn't offer it
  • Wrong plan/policy billed

How to Resolve or Appeal

  1. Confirm the plan's coverage tiers with the payer
  2. Bill the patient directly if dependent coverage genuinely doesn't exist

Educational reference only — not medical or legal advice. Always confirm code usage and appeal rights with the specific payer.

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