Medicare Credit Balance Report (CMS-838)
A Medicare credit balance is an amount you determine to be refundable to Medicare because you received an improper or excess payment due to patient billing or claims processing errors.
When to Submit
Starting December 1, 2024, providers aren’t required to submit the Medicare Credit Balance Report (CMS-838) on a quarterly basis. You’re still required to report self-identified overpayments, but you should only complete a Credit Balance Report when they occur.
How to Submit
Use one of these methods to submit a Credit Balance Report:
myCGS portal (preferred method) |
Benefits include the ability to submit the form electronically, receive confirmation and check status. See the myCGS User Manual for details. |
Fax |
1.803.462.2584 |
Regular mail |
CGS |
FedEx/UPS/Certified mail |
CGS |
Corrections
To remove information submitted on a previous report in error, complete and submit the Medicare Credit Balance Correction Form.
Reference: CMS Medicare Financial Management Manual (Pub. 100-06), chapter 12
Updated: 01.02.25