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The CMS-855B form is an essential document for clinics, group practices, and various suppliers seeking to enroll in the Medicare program. This form serves multiple purposes, including initial enrollment, changes to existing enrollment information, and revalidation of Medicare enrollment. It is vital for applicants to ensure they are using the most current version of the form, as outdated applications may lead to processing delays. The form requires specific supporting documentation, which must be submitted alongside the application to ensure compliance with Medicare regulations. To successfully complete the CMS-855B, applicants need to provide their National Provider Identifier (NPI) and ensure that their legal business name and tax identification number match those on their NPI application. This form not only facilitates the enrollment process but also allows for the reporting of significant changes, such as new tax identification numbers or practice locations. Understanding the requirements and instructions laid out in the CMS-855B is crucial for any healthcare provider or supplier aiming to bill Medicare for their services.

Sample - Cms 855B Form

MEDICARE ENROLLMENT APPLICATION

Clinics/Group Practices and Other Suppliers

CMS-855B

SEE PAGE 1–2 TO DETERMINE IF YOU ARE COMPLETING THE CORRECT APPLICATION. SEE PAGE 3 FOR INFORMATION ON WHERE TO MAIL THIS COMPLETED APPLICATION.

SEE SECTION 12 FOR A LIST OF SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION TO BE SUBMITTED WITH THIS APPLICATION.

TO VIEW YOUR CURRENT MEDICARE ENROLLMENT RECORD GO TO: HTTPS://PECOS.CMS.HHS.GOV

 

Form Approved

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

OMB No. 0938-1377

CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES

Expires: 03/2024

 

 

WHO SHOULD SUBMIT THIS APPLICATION

Clinics, group practices, and other suppliers must complete this application to enroll in the Medicare program and receive a Medicare billing number.

Clinics, group practices, and other suppliers can apply for enrollment in the Medicare program or make a change in their enrollment information using either:

The Internet-based Provider Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System (PECOS), or

The paper CMS-855B enrollment application. Be sure you are using the most current version.

For additional information regarding the Medicare enrollment process, including Internet-based PECOS and to get the current version of the CMS-855B, go to http://www.cms.gov/MedicareProviderSupEnroll.

NOTE: Applicants using this application require a Type 2 NPI. See below for more information.

NOTE: For the purposes of this application, the word “supplier” is used universally and includes any providers or suppliers who are required to complete the CMS-855B application.

Complete and submit this application if you are an organization/group or other supplier that plans to bill Medicare and you are:

Enrolling in the Medicare program for the first time with this Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) under this tax identification number.

Currently enrolled in Medicare but have a new tax identification number. If you are reporting a change to your current Medicare enrollment to your tax identification number, you must complete a new application.

Currently enrolled in Medicare and need to enroll in another Medicare Administrative Contractor’s (MAC’s) jurisdiction (e.g., you have opened a practice location in a geographic territory serviced by another MAC).

Revalidating your Medicare enrollment. CMS may require you to submit or update your enrollment information. The MAC will notify you when it is time for you to revalidate your enrollment information. Do not submit a revalidation application until you have been contacted by your MAC.

Previously enrolled in Medicare and you need to reactivate your Medicare billing number to resume billing. Prior to being reactivated, you must meet all current requirements for your supplier type before reactivation may occur.

Currently enrolled in Medicare and need to make changes to your enrollment information (e.g., you have added or changed a practice location). Changes must be reported in accordance with the timeframes established in 42 C.F.R. section 424.516. (IDTF changes of information must be reported in accordance with 42 C.F.R. section 410.33.)

A hospital, hospital department, or other medical practice or clinic that may bill for Medicare Part A services but will also bill for Medicare Part B practitioner services or provide purchased laboratory tests to other entities that will bill Medicare Part B.

A certified Medicare Part B provider (i.e. Ambulatory Surgery Center, Portable X-ray Supplier) intending to report a CHOW. A CHOW typically occurs when a Medicare provider has been purchased (or leased) by another organization. The CHOW results in the transfer of the old owner’s Medicare Identification Number and provider agreement (including any outstanding Medicare debt of the old owner) to the new owner. The regulatory citation for CHOWs can be found at 42 C.F.R. 489.18. If the purchaser (or lessee) elects not to accept a transfer of the provider agreement, then the old agreement should be terminated and the purchaser or lessee is considered a new applicant and must initially enroll in Medicare.

A medical practice, group/clinic or other supplier that will bill for Medicare Part B services (e.g., group practices, clinics, independent laboratories, portable x-ray suppliers).

Terminating a Physician Assistant (PA) employer relationship.

Terminating an employer or individual relationship with an Independent Diagnostic Testing Facility (IDTF).

Voluntary terminating your Medicare billing privileges. A supplier should voluntarily terminate its Medicare enrollment when it:

Will no longer be rendering services to Medicare patients, or

Is planning to cease (or has ceased) operations.

NOTE: For the purposes of this section of this application, an entity is defined as a group/clinic, other supplier, or any organization to which you will reassign your Medicare benefits.

CMS-855B (Rev. 03/2021)

1

BILLING NUMBER AND NATIONAL PROVIDER IDENTIFIER INFORMATION

The Provider Transaction Access Number (PTAN), often referred to as a Medicare Supplier Number or Medicare Billing Number, is a generic term for any number other than the National Provider Identifier (NPI) that is used by a supplier bill the Medicare program.

The NPI is the standard unique health identifier for health care providers and suppliers and is assigned by the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES). To enroll in Medicare, you must obtain an NPI and furnish it on this application prior to enrolling in Medicare or when submitting a change to your existing Medicare enrollment information. Applying for the NPI is a process separate from Medicare enrollment.

As a supplier, it is your responsibility to determine if you have “subparts.” A subpart is a component of an organization (supplier) that furnishes healthcare and is not itself a legal entity. If you do have subparts, you must determine if they should obtain their own unique NPIs. Before you complete this enrollment application, you need to make those determinations and obtain NPI(s) accordingly. To obtain an NPI, you may apply online at https://NPPES.cms.hhs.gov. For more information about NPI enumeration, visit www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Administrative-Simplification/NationalProvIdentStand/enumeration.

NOTE: The Legal Business Name (LBN) and Tax Identification Number (TIN) that you furnish in section 2A must be the same LBN and TIN you used to obtain your NPI. Once this information is entered into PECOS from this application, your LBN, TIN and NPI must match exactly in both PECOS and NPPES.

Organizational Health Care Providers (Entity Type 2): Organizational health care providers are eligible for an Entity Type 2 NPI (Organizations). Organizational health care providers may have a single employee or thousands of employees. Examples of organizational providers include hospitals, home health agencies, groups/clinics, nursing homes, ambulance companies, health care provider corporations formed by groups/ individuals, and single member LLCs with an EIN, not individual health care providers.

Important: For NPI purposes, sole proprietors and sole proprietorships are considered to be “Type 1” providers. Organizations (e.g., corporations, partnerships) are treated as “Type 2” entities. When reporting the NPI of a sole proprietor on this application, therefore, the individual’s Type 1 NPI should be reported; for organizations, the Type 2 NPI should be furnished.

To obtain an NPI, you may apply online at https://NPPES.cms.hhs.gov.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING AND SUBMITTING THIS APPLICATION

All information on this form is required with the exception of those fields specifically marked as “optional.” Any field marked as optional is not required to be completed nor does it need to be updated or reported as a “change of information” as required in 42 C.F.R. section 424.516. However, it is highly recommended that if reported, these fields be kept up-to-date.

This form must be typed. It may not be handwritten. If portions of this form are handwritten, the application may be returned to you by your MAC.

When necessary to report additional information, copy and complete the applicable section as needed.

Attach all required supporting documentation.

Keep a copy of your completed Medicare enrollment package for your own records.

CMS-855B (Rev. 03/2021)

2

TIPS TO AVOID DELAYS IN YOUR ENROLLMENT

To avoid delays in the enrollment process, you should:

Complete all required sections, as shown in section 1.

Ensure that the legal business name shown in section 2 matches the name on the tax documents.

Ensure that the correspondence address shown in section 2 is the supplier’s address.

Enter your NPI(s) in the applicable section(s).

Include the Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) Authorization Agreement (when applicable) with your enrollment application with a voided check or bank letter.

Sign and date section 15.

Ensure all supporting documents are sent to your designated MAC.

The supplier pays the required application fee (via https://pecos.cms.hhs.gov/pecos/feePaymentWelcome.do) upon initial enrollment, the addition of a new business location, revalidation and, if requested, reactivation PRIOR to completing and submitting this application to the MAC.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

You may visit our website to learn more about the enrollment process via the Internet-Based Provider Enrollment Chain and Ownership System (PECOS) at: https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment- and-Certification/MedicareProviderSupEnroll/InternetbasedPECOS.html. Also, all of the CMS-855 applications are all located on the CMS webpage: https://www.cms.gov/medicare/cms-forms/cms-forms/ cms-forms-list.html. Simply enter “855” in the “Filter On:” box on this page and only the application forms will be displayed to choose from.

The MAC may request additional documentation to support and validate information reported on this application. You are responsible for providing this documentation within 30 days of the request per 42 C.F.R. section 424.525(a)(1).

The information you provide on this form is protected under 5 U.S.C. section 552(b)(4) and/or (b)(6), respectively. For more information, see the last page of this application to read the Privacy Act Statement.

ACRONYMS COMMONLY USED IN THIS APPLICATION

C.F.R.: Code of Federal Regulations

EFT: Electronic Funds Transfer

EIN: Employer Identification Number

IHS: Indian Health Service

IRS: Internal Revenue Service

LBN: Legal Business Name

LLC: Limited Liability Corporation

MAC: Medicare Administrative Contractor

NPI: National Provider Identifier

NPPES: National Plan and Provider Enumeration System

OTP: Opioid Treatment Program

PTAN: Provider Transaction Access Number also referred to as the Medicare Identification Number

SSN: Social Security Number

TIN: Tax Identification Number

DEFINITIONS

NOTE: For the purposes of this CMS-855B application, the following definitions apply:

Add: You are adding additional enrollment information to your existing information (e.g. practice locations).

Change: You are replacing existing information with new information (e.g. billing agency, managing employee) or updating existing information (e.g. change in suite #, telephone #).

Remove: You are removing existing enrollment information.

WHERE TO MAIL YOUR APPLICATION

Send this completed application with original signatures and all required documentation to your designated MAC. The MAC that services your State is responsible for processing your enrollment application. To locate the mailing address for your designated MAC, go to www.cms.gov/MedicareProviderSupEnroll.

CMS-855B (Rev. 03/2021)

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SECTION 1: BASIC INFORMATION

ALL APPLICANTS MUST COMPLETE THIS SECTION

A. REASON FOR SUBMITTING THIS APPLICATION

Check one box and complete the required sections of this application as indicated.

 

You are a new enrollee in Medicare

Complete all applicable sections

 

 

 

Ambulance suppliers must complete

 

 

 

Attachment 1

 

 

 

IDTF suppliers must complete Attachment 2

 

 

 

OTPs must complete Attachment 3

 

 

 

 

 

You are enrolling with another Medicare Administrative

Complete all applicable sections

 

Contractor (MAC)

Ambulance suppliers must complete

 

 

 

 

 

 

Attachment 1

 

 

 

IDTF suppliers must complete Attachment 2

 

 

 

OTPs must complete Attachment 3

 

 

 

 

 

You are revalidating your Medicare enrollment

Complete all applicable sections

 

 

 

Ambulance suppliers must complete

 

 

 

Attachment 1

 

 

 

IDTF suppliers must complete Attachment 2

 

 

 

OTPs must complete Attachment 3

 

 

 

 

 

You are reactivating your Medicare enrollment

Complete all applicable sections

 

 

 

Ambulance suppliers must complete

 

 

 

Attachment 1

 

 

 

IDTF suppliers must complete Attachment 2

 

 

 

OTPs must complete Attachment 3

 

 

 

 

 

You are reporting a change to your Medicare enrollment

Go to section 1B below

 

information

 

 

 

 

 

 

You are voluntarily terminating your Medicare enrollment

Section 1, 2A1, 13 (optional), and 15

 

Effective date of termination (mm/dd/yyyy):

Employers terminating Physician Assistants

 

 

 

must complete sections 1, 2A1, 2F, 13

 

 

 

(optional), and 15

 

Medicare Identification Number:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CMS-855B (Rev. 03/2021)

4

SECTION 1: BASIC INFORMATION (Continued)

B. WHAT INFORMATION IS CHANGING?

Check all that apply and complete the required sections.

Please note: When reporting ANY information, sections 1, 2A1, 3, and 15 MUST always be completed in addition to the information that is changing within the required section.

Changing Information

Required Sections

 

 

Business Identifying Information

1, 2A1, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for

 

the signer if that authorized or delegated

 

official has not been established for this

 

supplier

 

 

Final Adverse Legal Actions

1, 2A1, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for

 

the signer if that authorized or delegated

 

official has not been established for this

 

supplier

 

 

Medical Specialty Information

1, 2A, 2B, 3, 4, 12, 13 (optional), and 15 and 6

 

for the signer if that authorized or delegated

 

official has not been established for this

 

supplier

 

 

Supplier Specific Information

1, 2A1, 2A2-2A4, 2B–2F (as applicable), 3,

 

12,13 (optional), and 15 and 6 for the signer if

 

that authorized or delegated official has not

 

been established for this supplier

 

 

Physician Assistant Employment Terminations

1, 2A1, 2F, 3, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for

 

the signer if that authorized or delegated

 

official has not been established for this

 

supplier

 

 

Private Practice Business Information

1, 2A, 3, 4A, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6

 

for the signer if that authorized or delegated

 

official has not been established for this

 

supplier

 

 

Change of Ownership (Hospitals, Hospital Departments,

Complete all sections and provide a copy of

Portable X-Ray Suppliers and Ambulatory Surgical Centers

the sales agreement

Only)

 

 

 

Ownership Interest and/or Managing Control Information

1, 2A1, 3, 5, 13, and 15, and 6 for the signer if

(Organizations)

that authorized or delegated official has not

 

been established for this supplier

 

 

Ownership Interest and/or Managing Control Information

1, 2A1, 3, 6, 13, and 15, and another 6 for the

(Individuals)

signer if that authorized or delegated official

 

has not been established for this supplier

 

 

Managing Employee Information

1, 2A1, 3, 6, 12, 13 (optional), and 15 and 6

 

for the signer if that authorized or delegated

 

official has not been established for this

 

supplier

 

 

CMS-855B (Rev. 03/2021)

5

SECTION 1: BASIC INFORMATION (Continued)

Changing Information

Required Sections

 

 

Address Information

1, 2A, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 AND sections

Correspondence Mailing Address

2A3, 2A4, 4A, 4B, 4C, and/or 4E as applicable

for the address that is being changed and 6

Medicare Beneficiary Medical Records Storage Address

for the signer if that authorized or delegated

Practice Location Address

official has not been established for this

 

Remittance Notices/Special Payment Mailing Address

supplier

Base of Operations Address for Mobile or Portable

 

Suppliers (location of Business Office or Dispatcher/

 

Scheduler)

 

 

 

Billing Agency Information

1, 2A1, 3, 8, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for the

 

signer if that authorized or delegated official

 

has not been established for this supplier

 

 

Authorized Official(s) and/or Delegated Official(s)

1, 2A1, 3, 13, 15A1 (if you are an Authorized

 

Official) or 15B1 (if you are a delegated

 

official), and another 6 for the signer if that

 

authorized or delegated official has not been

 

established for this supplier

 

 

Any other information not specified above

1, 2A1, 3, 12 (if applicable), 13 (optional) and

 

15 and the applicable section or sub-section

 

that is changing and 6 for the signer if that

 

authorized or delegated official has not been

 

established for this supplier

 

 

ATTACHMENT 1: AMBULANCE SERVICE SUPPLIERS (ONLY)

 

 

 

Changing Information

Required Sections

 

 

Ambulance Supplier Transport Type

1, 2A, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for the

 

signer if that authorized or delegated official

 

has not been established for this supplier

 

Attachment 1(A)

 

 

Geographic Area

1, 2A, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for the

 

signer if that authorized or delegated official

 

has not been established for this supplier

 

Attachment 1(B)

 

 

State License Information

1, 2A, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for the

 

signer if that authorized or delegated official

 

has not been established for this supplier

 

Attachment 1(C)

 

 

Vehicle Information

1, 2A, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for the

 

signer if that authorized or delegated official

 

has not been established for this supplier

 

Attachment 1(D)

 

 

CMS-855B (Rev. 03/2021)

6

SECTION 1: BASIC INFORMATION (Continued)

ATTACHMENT 2: INDEPENDENT DIAGNOSTIC TESTING FACILITIES (ONLY)

Changing Information

Required Sections

 

 

CPT-4 and HCPCS Codes

1, 2A, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for the

 

signer if that authorized or delegated official

 

has not been established for this supplier

 

Attachment 2(B)

 

 

Interpreting Physician Information

1, 2A, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for the

 

signer if that authorized or delegated official

 

has not been established for this supplier

 

Attachment 2(C)

 

 

Personnel (Technicians) Who Perform Tests

1, 2A, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for the

 

signer if that authorized or delegated official

 

has not been established for this supplier

 

Attachment 2(D)

 

 

Supervising Physicians

1, 2A, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for the

 

signer if that authorized or delegated official

 

has not been established for this supplier

 

Attachment 2(E)

 

 

ATTACHMENT 3: OPIOID TREATMENT PROGRAMS (ONLY)

 

 

 

Changing Information

Required Sections

 

 

Opioid Treatment Program Personnel – Ordering Personnel

1, 2A1, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for

Identification

the signer if that authorized or delegated

 

official has not been established for this

 

supplier

 

Attachment 3A

 

 

Opioid Treatment Program Personnel – Dispensing

1, 2A1, 3, 12, 13 (optional) and 15 and 6 for

Personnel Identification

the signer if that authorized or delegated

 

official has not been established for this

 

supplier

 

Attachment 3B

 

 

CMS-855B (Rev. 03/2021)

7

SECTION 2: IDENTIFYING INFORMATION

A. SUPPLIER IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

1. BUSINESS INFORMATION

Legal Business Name as Reported to the Internal Revenue Service

Tax Identification Number (TIN)

Medicare Identification Number (PTAN) (if issued)

National Provider Identifier (NPI)

Other Name (if applicable)

Type of Other Name (if applicable). Check box indicating Type of Other Name:

Former Legal Business Name

Doing Business As Name

Other (Describe):

Business Structure information

Identify how your business is registered with the IRS. (NOTE: If your business is a Federal and/or State government supplier, indicate “Non-Profit” below. In addition, government-owned entities do not need to provide an IRS Form 501(c)(3)).

Proprietary

Non-Profit (Submit IRS Form 501(c)(3)

Disregarded Entity (Submit IRS Form 8832)

NOTE: If a checkbox identifying how the business is registered with the IRS is not completed, the supplier will be defaulted to “Proprietary.”

Identify the type of organizational structure of this supplier: (Check one)

Corporation

Limited Liability Company

Partnership

Sole Proprietor

Other (Specify):

Is this supplier an Indian Health Service (IHS) Facility? .....................................................................

Yes

No

2. LICENSE/CERTIFICATION/REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Complete the appropriate subsection(s) below for your supplier type as you will report in section 2B. If no subsection is associated with your supplier type, check the box stating the information is not applicable.

a. Active License Information

License Not Applicable

License Number

Effective Date (mm/dd/yyyy)

State Where Issued

CMS-855B (Rev. 03/2021)

8

SECTION 2: IDENTIFYING INFORMATION (Continued)

b. Active Certification Information

Complete the appropriate subsection(s) below for your supplier type as you will report in section 2B. If no subsection is associated with your supplier type, check the box stating the information is not applicable. *If

you are certified by a national entity, put the word “all” in the “State Where Issued” data field.

Certification Not Applicable

Certification Number

Effective Date (mm/dd/yyyy)

State Where Issued*

Certifying Entity (Specialty Board, State, Other)

3. CORRESPONDENCE MAILING ADDRESS

This is the address where correspondence will be sent to the supplier listed in section 2A1 by your designated MAC. This address cannot be a billing agent or agency’s address or a medical management company address.

If you are reporting a change to your Correspondence Mailing Address, check the box below. This will replace any current Correspondence Mailing Address on file.

Change

Effective Date (mm/dd/yyyy):

Attention (optional)

Correspondence Mailing Address Line 1 (P.O. Box or Street Name and Number)

Correspondence Mailing Address Line 2 (Suite, Room, Apt. #, etc.)

City/Town

State

ZIP Code + 4

Telephone Number (if applicable)

Fax Number (if applicable)

E-mail Address (if applicable)

4. MEDICAL RECORD CORRESPONDENCE ADDRESS

This is the address where the medical record correspondence will be sent to the supplier listed in section 2A1 by your designated MAC. This information would be used for any medical record review requests.

Check here if your Medical Record Correspondence Address should be mailed to your Correspondence Address in section 2A3 (above) and skip this section.

If you are reporting a change to your Medical Record Correspondence Address, check the box below. This will replace any current Medical Record Correspondence Address on file.

Change

Effective Date (mm/dd/yyyy):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Attention (optional)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Medical Record Correspondence Mailing Address Line 1

(P.O. Box or Street Name and Number)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Medical Record Correspondence Mailing Address Line 2

(Suite, Room, Apt. #, etc.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City/Town

 

 

 

 

State

 

 

ZIP Code + 4

 

 

 

 

 

 

Telephone Number (if applicable)

Fax Number (if applicable)

 

E-mail Address (if applicable)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CMS-855B (Rev. 03/2021)

9

File Specs

Fact Name Description
Purpose of CMS-855B This form is used by clinics, group practices, and other suppliers to enroll in the Medicare program and obtain a Medicare billing number.
Eligibility Requirements To submit the CMS-855B, applicants must have a Type 2 National Provider Identifier (NPI).
Submission Methods Applicants can enroll using the Internet-based PECOS system or by submitting a paper CMS-855B application.
Supporting Documentation Section 12 of the form lists the required supporting documents that must be included with the application.
Revalidation Process Medicare may require suppliers to revalidate their enrollment information periodically, as notified by their Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC).
Termination of Enrollment Suppliers may voluntarily terminate their Medicare enrollment when they no longer provide services to Medicare patients or cease operations.
Application Fee An application fee is required upon initial enrollment, addition of a new location, revalidation, or reactivation of billing privileges.
State-Specific Forms State-specific forms may be required based on local regulations. Refer to the governing laws of each state for details.

Cms 855B - Usage Guidelines

Filling out the CMS 855B form is a crucial step for clinics, group practices, and other suppliers looking to enroll in the Medicare program. After completing the form, you will need to submit it to your designated Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) along with any required supporting documentation. This ensures that your application is processed efficiently.

  1. Obtain the most current version of the CMS 855B form from the CMS website.
  2. Ensure you have a Type 2 National Provider Identifier (NPI) before starting the application.
  3. Type all information into the form; handwritten applications may be returned.
  4. In Section 1, select the appropriate reason for submitting the application by checking the relevant box.
  5. Complete all required sections as indicated based on your selection in Section 1.
  6. In Section 2A, provide your Legal Business Name (LBN) and Tax Identification Number (TIN). Ensure these match your NPI information.
  7. Fill out Section 2 with your correspondence address and other relevant information.
  8. If applicable, include the Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) Authorization Agreement along with a voided check or bank letter.
  9. Attach all required supporting documentation as listed in Section 12 of the form.
  10. Review the form for completeness and accuracy, ensuring all required fields are filled out.
  11. Sign and date Section 15 to certify the information provided is accurate.
  12. Keep a copy of your completed application for your records.
  13. Mail the completed application and supporting documents to your designated MAC. Check the MAC's mailing address on the CMS website.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the CMS 855B form?

The CMS 855B form is the Medicare Enrollment Application specifically designed for clinics, group practices, and other suppliers. This form is essential for those who want to enroll in the Medicare program and obtain a Medicare billing number. It can be completed either online through the PECOS system or as a paper application.

Who needs to fill out the CMS 855B form?

Clinics, group practices, and other suppliers that plan to bill Medicare must complete this form. This includes organizations enrolling for the first time, those with a new tax identification number, and those needing to update their enrollment information. It is also necessary for revalidating or reactivating Medicare billing privileges.

What information do I need to provide on the CMS 855B form?

You will need to provide various details, including your legal business name, tax identification number, and National Provider Identifier (NPI). It’s crucial that the information you submit matches what is on your tax documents and NPI records. You will also need to indicate the reason for your application, whether it's for enrollment, revalidation, or a change in information.

How do I obtain a National Provider Identifier (NPI)?

You can apply for an NPI online at the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES) website. The NPI is a unique identifier required for all healthcare providers and suppliers participating in Medicare. Make sure to obtain your NPI before completing the CMS 855B form.

What are some common reasons for submitting the CMS 855B form?

Common reasons include enrolling in Medicare for the first time, changing your tax identification number, enrolling with a different Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC), or revalidating your existing Medicare enrollment. Additionally, if you need to make changes to your practice location or voluntarily terminate your Medicare billing privileges, this form is required.

What supporting documentation do I need to submit with the CMS 855B form?

You must include all required supporting documentation as specified in Section 12 of the form. This may include proof of your legal business name, tax identification number, and any other documents that validate the information provided in your application.

Where should I send my completed CMS 855B form?

After completing the form, you should mail it, along with all required documentation, to your designated Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC). You can find the mailing address for your MAC by visiting the CMS website.

What should I do if I make a mistake on the CMS 855B form?

If you realize you've made a mistake, it's best to correct it before submitting the form. If the application has already been submitted, contact your MAC for guidance on how to proceed with corrections. It's important to ensure that all information is accurate to avoid delays in the enrollment process.

How can I avoid delays in my enrollment process?

To minimize delays, ensure that all required sections of the form are completed, and that the legal business name matches your tax documents. Provide accurate NPI information and include any necessary supporting documents. Finally, remember to sign and date the application before submission.

Common mistakes

  1. Using an outdated form: Always ensure that you are filling out the most current version of the CMS-855B form. Using an outdated form can lead to delays or rejection of your application.

  2. Incomplete sections: Every required section must be filled out completely. Leaving any mandatory fields blank can result in your application being returned for correction.

  3. Incorrect legal business name: The legal business name (LBN) you provide must match exactly with the name on your tax documents. Any discrepancies can cause complications in the enrollment process.

  4. Failing to include supporting documentation: Remember to attach all required documents as specified in Section 12. Omitting necessary paperwork can significantly delay your application.

  5. Not providing an NPI: You must obtain and include your National Provider Identifier (NPI) on the form. Without it, your application cannot be processed.

  6. Handwriting portions of the form: This form must be typed. Handwritten sections may lead to rejection of the application, so ensure everything is typed clearly.

  7. Ignoring the application fee: Don’t forget to pay the required application fee if applicable. This fee must be paid before submitting your application.

  8. Neglecting to sign and date: Always remember to sign and date section 15 of the application. An unsigned application is incomplete and will not be processed.

Documents used along the form

The CMS-855B form is essential for clinics, group practices, and other suppliers to enroll in the Medicare program. Alongside this application, several other forms and documents are often required to ensure a smooth enrollment process. Below is a list of these documents, each with a brief description of its purpose.

  • CMS-855A: This form is used by institutional providers, such as hospitals and nursing facilities, to enroll in Medicare. It captures information about the organization’s structure and services offered.
  • CMS-855I: Individual healthcare providers, including physicians and non-physician practitioners, use this form to enroll in Medicare. It requires personal and professional information about the provider.
  • CMS-588: The Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) Authorization Agreement allows Medicare payments to be directly deposited into the provider’s bank account. This form is crucial for timely reimbursement.
  • W-9 Form: This IRS form is used to provide the correct Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) to the IRS. It is often required to ensure accurate tax reporting for payments received.
  • State License: A copy of the state license is often required to demonstrate that the provider or supplier is legally authorized to practice in the state where they are providing services.
  • Proof of Liability Insurance: This document shows that the provider has adequate liability coverage, which is essential for protecting against potential claims related to patient care.
  • National Provider Identifier (NPI) Confirmation: Documentation confirming the provider's NPI is necessary, as it is a unique identifier required for billing Medicare.
  • Organizational Chart: For group practices or clinics, an organizational chart may be needed to illustrate the structure and management of the practice.
  • Supporting Documentation: Any additional documents requested by the Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) to validate the information provided in the application.

Having these forms and documents prepared can significantly streamline the Medicare enrollment process. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays in approval.

Similar forms

The CMS-855A form is similar to the CMS-855B form as both are used for Medicare enrollment. While the CMS-855B is specifically for clinics, group practices, and other suppliers, the CMS-855A is designed for institutional providers, such as hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. Both forms require detailed information about the entity applying for enrollment, including legal business name, tax identification number, and National Provider Identifier (NPI). Additionally, both forms must be completed accurately to avoid delays in the enrollment process.

The CMS-855I form also shares similarities with the CMS-855B form. This application is intended for individual healthcare providers, such as physicians and non-physician practitioners. Like the CMS-855B, the CMS-855I requires information about the provider's practice, including their NPI and tax identification number. Both forms serve the purpose of enrolling in the Medicare program and require supporting documentation to validate the information provided.

The CMS-855R form is another related document. This form is used for reassigning Medicare benefits from an individual provider to an organization or group practice. Similar to the CMS-855B, the CMS-855R requires the submission of specific information about the provider and the organization receiving the reassignment. Both forms help ensure that Medicare billing is handled correctly and that the necessary details are documented for compliance.

The CMS-855S form is relevant as well. It is specifically for suppliers of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS). Like the CMS-855B, the CMS-855S is used to enroll in Medicare and requires similar information, such as the legal business name and tax identification number. Both forms aim to facilitate the enrollment process for different types of healthcare providers and suppliers under the Medicare program.

Lastly, the CMS-855O form is comparable to the CMS-855B form in that it is used by organizations that provide outpatient therapy services. The CMS-855O application requires similar information about the organization, including its NPI and tax identification number. Both forms are essential for ensuring that the respective providers are properly enrolled in Medicare and can bill for their services accordingly.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the CMS 855B form, it’s crucial to approach the process with care. Below is a list of essential do's and don'ts to ensure a smooth application experience.

  • Do: Use the most current version of the CMS 855B form.
  • Do: Complete all required sections of the application.
  • Do: Attach all necessary supporting documentation as specified.
  • Do: Sign and date section 15 of the application.
  • Do: Keep a copy of your completed application for your records.
  • Don't: Submit handwritten forms, as they may be returned.
  • Don't: Forget to include your National Provider Identifier (NPI) in the appropriate sections.
  • Don't: Neglect to pay the required application fee before submitting your application.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can minimize potential delays and complications in your Medicare enrollment process.

Misconceptions

1. The CMS-855B form is only for new Medicare applicants. Many believe that this form is exclusively for those enrolling in Medicare for the first time. In reality, it is also used for updating existing enrollment information, revalidating, or reactivating a Medicare billing number.

2. Handwritten applications are acceptable. There is a misconception that handwritten forms can be submitted. However, all information must be typed. Handwritten applications may be returned by the Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC).

3. Only individual practitioners need to complete the CMS-855B form. Some think that only individual healthcare providers must fill out this form. In fact, clinics, group practices, and various suppliers are also required to complete it to bill Medicare.

4. Supporting documentation is optional. Many applicants assume that supporting documents are not necessary. However, attaching all required documentation is crucial for processing the application efficiently.

5. The application fee is not required for revalidation. Some believe that the application fee is only applicable during initial enrollment. In reality, fees are also required for revalidation and when adding new business locations.

6. All fields in the application must be completed. There is a common belief that every field on the form is mandatory. While most fields are required, some are marked as optional and do not need to be filled out.

Key takeaways

Filling out the CMS 855B form is a crucial step for clinics, group practices, and other suppliers looking to enroll in the Medicare program. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Understand Your Eligibility: This form is specifically for clinics and suppliers who are either enrolling in Medicare for the first time, changing their enrollment information, or revalidating their existing enrollment. Be sure you meet these criteria before proceeding.
  • Use the Correct Version: Always ensure you are using the most current version of the CMS 855B form. Outdated forms may lead to delays or rejection of your application.
  • Complete All Required Sections: Every required section must be filled out accurately. Missing information can result in processing delays. Double-check that your legal business name and tax identification number match the documents you submitted.
  • Submit Supporting Documentation: Attach all necessary supporting documents as outlined in the application instructions. Keeping a copy of your completed application for your records is also highly recommended.