Reminder: Submitting Paper Claims

All paper claims are required to be submitted on the original red/white CMS-1500 (02/12) claim form. To ensure our OCR system can process claims efficiently:

• Use Courier New font for computer-generated claims. Do not print in italics, bold or script. Do not mix fonts.
• Use Pica 10 or 12-point typeface for claims typed on a typewriter.
• Do not type in italics or script.
• Use upper case letters for all claim data.
• Ensure none of the characters touch.
• Ensure no lines from the printer cartridge are anywhere on the claim.
• Do not use special characters, (dollar signs, decimals, dashes, asterisk, or backslashes) unless otherwise specified.
• Use an ink jet or laser printer to complete the CMS-1500 claim form. Because claims submitted with dot matrix printers have breaks in the letters and numbers, OCR equipment is unable to properly read these claims. Suppliers using dot matrix printers risk slow or incorrect processing of their claims.

Following these processes will help avoid claim processing delays. For the complete list, visit the CMS-1500 Claim Form section of the Medicare Part B 101 Manual.

Posted 8/9/2023